This Easy Chicken Bacon Ranch Zucchini Bake is a tasty dish that brings together tender chicken, crispy bacon, and flavorful ranch seasoning. Plus, it’s made with zucchini, so it feels light!
If you ask me, the best part is that you get to enjoy your veggies in a cheesy, hearty way. Trust me, once you smell it baking, you won’t be able to resist! 😋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: Medium zucchinis are perfect for this bake, but if you can’t find them, you could use yellow squash or eggplant as alternatives. They will give a slightly different taste but will hold the filling nicely.
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience. If you have leftover chicken, that’s ideal too! You can also use canned chicken in a pinch, but it may alter the texture slightly.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds great flavor. If you’re looking to make this dish healthier, turkey bacon works well too. You can even omit it for a vegetarian version; just consider adding extra seasoning to compensate.
Ranch Dressing: While store-bought ranch dressing is handy, homemade ranch can bring a fresh touch. If you’re avoiding dairy, try a dairy-free ranch or vinaigrette as a substitute.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is classic for this dish. If you prefer a different cheese, mozzarella or Monterey Jack would both melt beautifully. Vegan cheese is a great option for a dairy-free dish.
How Do I Get Perfectly Tender Zucchini Boats?
To ensure your zucchini boats bake up perfectly tender, evenly scoop out the seeds to create enough space for the filling. It’s important not to overbake them, as that can cause them to become mushy. Keep an eye on them while baking!
- Preheat your oven properly before putting the zucchini in.
- Cook them just until the cheese is bubbly and the zucchini is fork-tender, about 20-25 minutes should do it.
- Letting them cool for a few minutes will help them set before serving.
Easy Chicken Bacon Ranch Zucchini Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise and seeded
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake, totaling approximately 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your zucchini bakes evenly when you pop it in!
2. Prepare the Zucchinis:
Carefully cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds with a spoon. This creates little boats that will hold all your delicious filling!
3. Mix the Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped bacon, ranch dressing, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and is looking tasty!
4. Season the Zucchini Boats:
Lightly season the inside of the zucchini boats with salt and pepper. This will add extra flavor to your dish.
5. Stuff the Zucchinis:
Spoon the chicken mixture evenly into each zucchini boat. Make sure to pack it in nicely so they are filled to the top!
6. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top of the stuffed zucchinis. This will melt into a lovely cheesy layer when baked!
7. Bake:
Place the stuffed zucchinis in a baking dish and slide them into the preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the zucchinis are tender.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the zucchinis cool slightly before serving. This helps everything set nicely and makes them easier to handle.
Enjoy this cheesy, savory, low-carb zucchini bake that combines the flavors of chicken, smoky bacon, and ranch in every bite!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Bacon Ranch Zucchini Bake
Can I Use Frozen Chicken For This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it is completely thawed first! You can thaw it in the fridge overnight or use the microwave if you’re short on time. Shred it after cooking to combine with the other ingredients.
How Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
No problem! To make this dish dairy-free, use dairy-free cheese alternatives and a vegan ranch dressing. There are many great brands available that melt well and taste delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave or a conventional oven until warmed through. You might want to add a sprinkle of fresh cheese on top while reheating for extra creaminess!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the zucchini and filling ahead of time, then assemble them just before baking. Keep everything covered in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking for the best results!
