Description
This Chicken Zucchini Bake is a simple, healthy, and flavorful one-dish meal featuring tender chicken breasts baked alongside fresh zucchini slices, seasoned with Italian herbs and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it combines protein and vegetables with a delicious golden cheese crust.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning, divided
Vegetables
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds
Other Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly on both sides with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning for balanced flavor.
- Arrange Ingredients: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Arrange the zucchini slices around the chicken to ensure even cooking and flavor mingling.
- Add Seasonings and Oil: Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and zucchini. Sprinkle the garlic powder and the remaining Italian seasoning evenly on top for extra aroma and taste.
- Top with Cheese: Generously cover the chicken and zucchini with shredded mozzarella cheese, which will melt and create a savory, golden crust.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Notes
- For even cooking, try to slice zucchinis uniformly to about ½ inch thickness.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked but still juicy.
- You can substitute mozzarella with other mild melting cheeses like provolone or Monterey Jack if preferred.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
