Name: Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the zucchini is tender Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large chicken breasts (about 1 lb), boneless and skinless; 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that packs in creamy, cheesy comfort without feeling heavy, this Chicken Zucchini Bake is about to become your new go-to. It’s loaded with juicy chunks of chicken, tender slices of zucchini, and a trio of cheeses all suffused with fresh herbs. The best part? When you Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the zucchini is tender, it emerges golden, aromatic, and impossible to resist—the kind of dish that’s as easy to love as it is to make.

Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the zucchini is tender Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every single ingredient for this Chicken Zucchini Bake is simple, approachable, and plays a starring role. Lean chicken and zucchini are a canvas for tangy dairy and aromatic herbs, coming together for big flavors with minimal fuss.

Chicken: Provides a lean source of protein that pairs beautifully with the zucchini and creamy sauce.
Zucchini: A low-carb vegetable that soaks up the cheesy sauce and provides a nice texture.
Mozzarella and Cheddar Cheese: These cheeses melt beautifully, offering a gooey and savory experience.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Adds creaminess and a slight tang to the dish, enhancing the flavors.
Parmesan Cheese: Gives the bake a rich, nutty undertone and a gorgeous golden top.
Olive Oil: Ensures juicy chicken and prevents sticking.
Garlic: Adds punchy aromatic depth and infuses the sauce with flavor.
Dried Oregano and Basil: Classic herbs that brighten up every bite.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning – don’t forget to taste and adjust!
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: In the seasoning blend, these round out the savory base flavors.
Fresh Parsley (Optional): A vibrant finishing touch, making each serving look and taste even better.

How to Make Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the zucchini is tender

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prep Your Tools

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s happening, lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish—this ensures those lovely, cheesy edges peel away easily when serving.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Zucchini

Slice your chicken breasts into 1-inch thick strips or bite-sized chunks, then toss them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. For the zucchini, go for ¼-inch thick rounds—they’ll soften just right when you Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the zucchini is tender without turning to mush.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Set a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once it shimmers, add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beautifully browned and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside—don’t wipe the skillet yet!

Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics and Make the Sauce

Add minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté for 30 seconds, just until fragrant. In a separate bowl, mix together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), Parmesan, half of the mozzarella, dried oregano, dried basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and dreamy—this will meld into every corner of the casserole.

Step 5: Layer and Assemble

In your greased baking dish, arrange the zucchini rounds evenly at the bottom. Top with the cooked chicken, then dollop and spread the creamy sauce. Sprinkle over the remaining mozzarella and all the cheddar cheese for that irresistible, golden top once you Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the zucchini is tender.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the zucchini is tender

This is the magic moment! Slide the dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes. It’s ready when the cheese is gloriously golden and the zucchini is fork-tender. Let it rest for a few minutes to set and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if you like.

How to Serve Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the zucchini is tender

Garnishes

Brighten up each serving with a flurry of chopped fresh parsley or even a touch of grated Parmesan. The garnish brings out the colors and adds a hint of fresh, herbal aroma that pops against the cheesy layers. A wedge of lemon on the side also adds a subtle zippy finish—delightful after you Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the zucchini is tender.

Side Dishes

This dish is filling on its own but pairs beautifully with simple sides. Think a crisp green salad tossed in vinaigrette, garlic bread to mop up the sauce, or even a scoop of cauliflower rice for a cozy, low-carb meal. After you Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the zucchini is tender, you might just want to keep the sides light to let the flavors shine!

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this bake family-style at the table, right in the casserole dish. For more formal occasions, spoon portions onto individual plates and add a little mound of fresh greens. Or divide the mixture among small ramekins and Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the zucchini is tender—perfect for personalized servings at dinner parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers are a dream! Simply transfer cooled portions to an airtight container and refrigerate. The bake keeps well for up to 3 days, and some say the flavors get even better overnight. Perfect for meal-prep or easy grab-and-go lunches!

Freezing

This recipe can be frozen after baking. Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or use a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months. For best texture, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, cover and bake in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or until hot and bubbly. Alternatively, you can microwave single portions in a microwave-safe dish on medium power. If you want to restore that golden cheesy top, pop it under the broiler for a minute or two after reheating.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking raw chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken saves time. Just shred or chop it and layer it directly—as the rest of the steps remain the same before you Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the zucchini is tender.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! All the main ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your spices and Parmesan are certified gluten-free to keep the entire bake safe for those avoiding gluten.

Can I swap out zucchini for another vegetable?

Definitely. Yellow squash or thinly sliced eggplant would both work beautifully and add new colors and flavors. Adjust the baking time just slightly if using vegetables with a higher water content.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

Greek yogurt is a wonderful substitute for sour cream in this recipe, providing the same creamy tang while boosting protein. Both work equally well—that creamy sauce is non-negotiable!

How do I prevent watery zucchini in the bake?

If your zucchinis are extra large or you’re concerned about excess water, sprinkle the slices with a bit of salt and let them rest for 10 minutes. Pat dry before assembling the casserole and your result will be perfectly rich after you Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the zucchini is tender.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to whip up this Chicken Zucchini Bake in your own kitchen. It’s the kind of recipe that surprises you with its ease and rewards you with so much flavor. Give it a try—Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the zucchini is tender—and enjoy the comforting, cheesy deliciousness with every bite!

Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the zucchini is tender Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 20 reviews

Author: Ava
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Chicken Zucchini Bake is a delicious and comforting casserole dish that combines tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or gathering.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken and Zucchini: Preheat the oven. Slice and season the chicken. Slice the zucchinis.
Make the Sauce: Cook the chicken. Sauté garlic. Prepare the creamy sauce mixture.
Assemble the Bake: Layer zucchini, chicken, and sauce in a baking dish. Top with cheese.
Bake the Dish: Bake until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve.

Notes

You can customize this dish by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American