This easy chicken zucchini bake is a real winner! It combines tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and crispy bacon all baked together for a tasty meal that’s full of flavor.
You’ll love how the bacon adds that delicious crunch. I often savor the leftovers for lunch—who knew a bake could be so good the next day? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep the bake lean and tender. If you prefer, thighs work well too—they stay juicy and flavorful!
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis bring a nice texture and subtle flavor. You can swap them out for yellow squash or even eggplant if you like something different.
Bacon: I love the flavor bacon adds. If you want a lighter option, turkey bacon is a good substitute. Or, you can skip it if you’re looking for a vegetarian dish.
Cheeses: Mozzarella gives that gooey, melty experience, while Parmesan adds sharpness. You can use cheddar or a dairy-free cheese if you prefer!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can use half and half or even Greek yogurt. Just keep in mind yogurt will make the sauce tangy!
How Do I Cook Chicken So It Stays Juicy?
To ensure your chicken stays juicy, start by searing it in a hot skillet. This creates a nice crust that locks in moisture. Here’s the method:
- Rub the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in the skillet over medium heat.
- Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden. Avoid cooking it all the way through.
This quick searing helps enhance the flavor and keeps your chicken moist during baking!
Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake with Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 medium zucchinis (thinly sliced)
- 6 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream or half and half
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh chives or parsley (chopped, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken zucchini bake takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake in the oven. So, you’ll be enjoying your meal in about 40 minutes or less!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your dish cooks evenly!
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place the chicken in the skillet and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown but not completely cooked through. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Garlic and Zucchini:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Next, add the sliced zucchini, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until they’re slightly softened. Season with a little more salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine with Cream:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked zucchini and garlic with the heavy cream (or half and half). Mix everything together to create a creamy mixture.
5. Assemble the Bake:
Place the seared chicken breasts in a baking dish. Pour the creamy zucchini mixture around and slightly over the chicken—this will keep it nice and juicy.
6. Add the Toppings:
Sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly on top of the chicken and zucchini mixture. Then, cover each chicken breast with the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake the Dish:
Put the baking dish into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (165°F/74°C internal temperature) and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle some fresh chives or parsley on top for a pop of color before serving.
Enjoy your delicious and creamy chicken zucchini bake with crispy bacon! It’s a comforting dish that’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to thaw chicken is to place it in the refrigerator overnight or submerge it in a sealed plastic bag in cold water for a quick thaw.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute half and half or even Greek yogurt. Just keep in mind that using yogurt will give the sauce a slightly tangy flavor, so mix it in slowly to achieve your desired taste.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in an oven at a low temperature until warmed through. Adding a splash of cream or broth can help keep the dish moist while reheating.
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Bake?
Absolutely! You can experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms. Just be mindful of the cooking times; some vegetables may need a bit longer or shorter. Feel free to mix and match according to your taste!
