This Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake brings together tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and crispy bacon for a tasty meal that everyone will love. It’s simple to prepare and packed with flavor!
Let’s face it, crispy bacon makes everything better! I love serving this dish with a side salad for a quick weeknight dinner. It’s like a hug on a plate. ❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great here for a tender texture. You can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier option, or even use cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis bring a lot of moisture and flavor. If zucchinis are out of season, yellow squash is a good alternative that will work just as well.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a wonderful crunch! If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon is a nice substitute, though it won’t be quite as crispy.
Cheese: I love using cheddar for its rich flavor! If you’re a mozzarella fan, feel free to swap it out. Goat cheese or feta can also add a nice tang.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics are essential for flavor. If you have a garlic powder, it can work in a pinch, but nothing beats fresh garlic and onions.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Getting your chicken perfectly cooked makes a big difference! Here’s how:
- Start by searing the chicken in a hot skillet. This gives it a nice golden color and locks in juices.
- Don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked in the skillet; it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Remember to use a meat thermometer! The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be safe and perfectly done.
Trust me, this method leads to juicy, flavorful chicken every time!
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Zucchini?
Sautéing zucchini is easy! Follow these steps for perfectly tender zucchini:
- Slice your zucchini into half-moons for even cooking. Aim for 1/4-inch thickness.
- Add the zucchini to the skillet after the onions are translucent; cook for just 4-5 minutes.
- Keep the heat at medium to avoid overcooking. You want them tender yet still a bit crisp.
This way, your zucchini will have great flavor without becoming mushy!
Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake with Crispy Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 6 slices of bacon
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Chicken Zucchini Bake takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 25 minutes to cook. So, you’re looking at roughly 40 minutes from start to finish! It’s a perfect option for a quick and hearty weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps ensure your dish cooks evenly! While the oven heats up, grab a skillet and get ready for the bacon.
2. Cook The Bacon:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it gets crispy. Once done, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off the grease. When it cools, crumble into pieces. Don’t forget to keep about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet; it adds flavor!
3. Season The Chicken:
While the bacon is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This will infuse great flavor right into the meat.
4. Sear The Chicken:
In the same skillet, add a little olive oil if needed, and sear the chicken breasts for around 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown but not fully cooked through. This adds a nice texture and flavor!
5. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. You’ll love the aroma!
6. Add The Zucchini:
Next, toss the sliced zucchini into the skillet with the onion and garlic. Cook for 4-5 minutes until they’re just tender. Season with a sprinkle of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
7. Assemble The Bake:
In a baking dish, layer the seared chicken breasts on the bottom. Then, spread the sautéed zucchini and onions over and around the chicken. It’s starting to look delicious!
8. Add Cheese and Bacon:
Sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly on top, and then layer with the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Get excited, because that cheesy goodness is going to be awesome!
9. Bake It Up:
Place the baking dish in the oven uncovered, and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through (reaching an internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C) and the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly.
10. Final Touches:
Once done, take it out of the oven and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Now you’re ready to dig in and enjoy your hearty, flavorful Chicken Zucchini Bake!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute the Chicken in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different protein, chicken thighs are a great alternative as they stay juicier during cooking. You can also use cooked rotisserie chicken to save time; just add it towards the end of the baking time to heat through.
What if I Don’t Have Zucchini?
No worries! You can replace the zucchini with yellow squash, bell peppers, or even broccoli. Just adjust the cooking time slightly based on the vegetables you choose, making sure they’re tender but not mushy.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the entire dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it will be chilled.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or in the oven at a low temperature until heated through. You might add a splash of broth or a bit of oil to keep it juicy!
