This Easy Italian Chicken and Zucchini Bake is a tasty dish packed with succulent chicken, fresh zucchini, and delicious Italian spices. It’s baked all together for a comforting meal!
I love how this recipe makes dinner a breeze. Just toss everything in a dish, and let the oven do the work. Plus, cleanup is super easy—who doesn’t like that? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is key for texture. If zucchini isn’t available, summer squash or even bell peppers work well as a replacement.
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is great for this recipe. You can switch it up with thighs for more flavor, or try turkey for a lighter option.
Marinara Sauce: I use store-bought marinara to save time, but homemade is always great! For a twist, try a roasted red pepper sauce or Alfredo for different flavors.
Cheese: Mozzarella is a must for stretchy, melty goodness. If you’re lactose intolerant, there are plant-based cheeses, or you can use less cheese for a lighter dish.
Seasoning: Italian seasoning brings lots of flavor. You can make your own mix with dried basil, oregano, and thyme if you have those on hand!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Is Cooked Properly?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but here are a few tips to ensure it’s perfectly cooked:
- Cut chicken into uniform, bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly.
- Cook the chicken until it’s lightly browned and no longer pink inside, about 5-7 minutes on medium heat.
- If unsure, use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
By following these steps, you’ll have juicy, tender chicken in your dish every time!
Easy Italian Chicken and Zucchini Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh or dried parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious bake will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to bake. Altogether, you’re looking at roughly 35-40 minutes from start to finish! It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet delicious enough for any occasion.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This sets the perfect baking temperature for our dish.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cut chicken pieces and season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes or until it’s lightly browned and mostly cooked through. It doesn’t have to be fully cooked at this stage; it will finish baking in the oven.
3. Add the Zucchini:
Next, toss the sliced zucchini into the skillet with the chicken. Sauté them together for another 3-4 minutes until the zucchini starts to soften a bit.
4. Combine in a Baking Dish:
Once the chicken and zucchini are cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Carefully transfer the mixture to a baking dish evenly.
5. Pour the Marinara Sauce:
Take the marinara sauce and pour it over the chicken and zucchini mixture, making sure it’s nicely covered.
6. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese all over the top, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese and the rest of the Italian seasoning for a flavorful kick.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. If you want, sprinkle fresh or dried parsley on top for a lovely touch.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve this hearty bake warm. It’s perfect on its own, but you can pair it with a fresh side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious Italian chicken and zucchini bake!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the vegetables you choose.
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 oven until warmed through. If it seems a bit dry, add a splash of marinara sauce before reheating!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and zucchini mixture along with the marinara and cheese, then cover and refrigerate it a day in advance. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to cook—simple and convenient!
What Can I Serve with This Bake?
This dish is delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or even over pasta or quinoa for a heartier meal option.
