why make this recipe
Chicken Zucchini Bake is a great dish for busy weeknight dinners. It’s quick to prepare, packed with protein and veggies, and incredibly satisfying. This recipe combines tender chicken with fresh zucchini and gooey cheese, all topped with flavorful marinara sauce. It’s a healthy option that even picky eaters will love!
how to make Chicken Zucchini Bake
Ingredients :
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they are soft and translucent.
- In a baking dish, layer the sliced zucchinis evenly across the bottom.
- Next, add the cooked shredded chicken on top of the zucchinis.
- Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the sautéed onions and garlic over the sauce.
- Season it all with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Finally, top the whole dish with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Allow it to cool slightly before serving.
how to serve Chicken Zucchini Bake
Serve Chicken Zucchini Bake hot from the oven. It makes a great main dish that pairs well with a simple side salad or some crusty bread. You can also serve it on its own for a low-carb meal.
how to store Chicken Zucchini Bake
To store leftovers, let the Chicken Zucchini Bake cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or bake in the oven until heated through.
tips to make Chicken Zucchini Bake
- Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms, for extra flavor.
- Try using different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan, for a unique taste.
variation
For a gluten-free version, ensure your marinara sauce is gluten-free and check for any added ingredients that might contain gluten. You can also substitute the regular cheese with dairy-free cheese if you are lactose intolerant.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shredded chicken. Make sure it is fully cooked before adding it to the dish.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat.
3. What if I don’t like zucchini?
You can swap zucchini for other vegetables like spinach or eggplant. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly if you use denser veggies.
Chicken Zucchini Bake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- 1 cup marinara sauce Ensure it is gluten-free if needed.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Can replace with other cheeses like cheddar.
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they are soft and translucent.
- In a baking dish, layer the sliced zucchinis evenly across the bottom.
- Next, add the cooked shredded chicken on top of the zucchinis.
- Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the sautéed onions and garlic over the sauce.
- Season it all with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Finally, top the whole dish with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Baking
- Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Allow it to cool slightly before serving.
