This Easy Italian Chicken and Zucchini Bake is a dish you’ll love! Juicy chicken is combined with fresh zucchini and flavorful Italian spices for a tasty meal.
The best part? It comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. I enjoy serving it with a side of rice or bread to soak up all the yummy juices!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds great texture. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash or eggplant are good substitutes. Just make sure to slice them thin to cook evenly.
Cooked chicken: Using rotisserie chicken saves time, but any leftover cooked chicken works too. For vegans, try chickpeas or a plant-based chicken option instead.
Marinara sauce: Store-bought marinara saves time, but homemade sauce is wonderfully fresh. You can also use pesto for a twist or any tomato-based sauce you prefer.
Cheeses: Mozzarella gives that melty texture, while Parmesan adds a nice flavor boost. Feel free to substitute with other cheeses like cheddar or a dairy-free cheese.
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Zucchini?
Sautéing zucchini is key for removing excess water and achieving that tender bite. It’s simple and quick!
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced zucchini and cook for 5-7 minutes.
- Stir occasionally until slightly tender. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for taste.
- Don’t overcook; you want it just tender, not mushy.
Easy Italian Chicken and Zucchini Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 2 cups marinara or Italian tomato sauce
For the Cheese Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Other:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing this delicious dish will take about 10 minutes, followed by 25-30 minutes of baking. So in total, you’ll need around 40 minutes to have a warm and tasty meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your dish cooks evenly and thoroughly.
2. Sauté the Zucchini:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced zucchinis and sauté them for about 5 minutes until they become slightly tender. Season them with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for extra flavor.
3. Mix the Chicken and Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the diced or shredded cooked chicken with the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Mix everything well to coat the chicken evenly in sauce.
4. Build the Layers:
Take a greased baking dish and spread a thin layer of the chicken and sauce mixture on the bottom. Then, layer the sautéed zucchini on top of the sauce.
5. Add More Chicken:
Pour the remaining chicken mixture over the layer of zucchini and spread it evenly. This will create a delicious blend of flavors as it bakes.
6. Cheese it Up:
Now, it’s time to add the cheeses! Top the casserole with the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, making sure it’s well-covered.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Rest and Serve:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This will help the layers set a bit and makes it easier to serve.
9. Garnish:
If you’d like, sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top for a fresh touch before serving. Enjoy your warm, comforting Italian chicken and zucchini bake!
FAQ for Easy Italian Chicken and Zucchini Bake
Can I Use Fresh Chicken Instead of Cooked?
Yes, you can! Simply cook the chicken first—grill, bake, or sauté it until fully cooked. Then dice or shred it before mixing it with the sauce as directed in the recipe.
Can I Substitute the Zucchini with Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to use vegetables like yellow squash, bell peppers, or even spinach. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if the vegetables require different preparation.
How Should 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. You can add a splash of marinara sauce if it seems dry!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare everything in advance—layer the dish and cover it tightly with foil. Refrigerate it, and then bake it when you’re ready to serve. Just increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes if baking from cold.
