Introduction

This Chicken Zucchini Bake is a simple, healthy dish that combines tender chicken breasts with fresh zucchini and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels both comforting and light.

A white rectangular baking dish filled with a layered baked casserole. The bottom layer consists of a bright red chunky tomato sauce mixed with some pieces of cooked chicken. On top of this is a layer of round, thick slices of green zucchini placed evenly across the dish. The topmost layer is a generous covering of melted white cheese with golden brown spots and sprinkled with herbs. The edges of the casserole show some crispy browned bits of cheese and sauce. The background surface is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
2 medium zucchinis, sliced into ½ inch rounds
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning.
Step 3: Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in the baking dish and place the zucchini slices around them.
Step 4: Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and zucchini, then sprinkle the garlic powder and the remaining Italian seasoning on top.
Step 5: Generously cover everything with the shredded mozzarella cheese.
Step 6: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the cheese is golden brown.

Tips & Variations

Try adding sliced cherry tomatoes or bell peppers around the chicken for extra color and flavor.
For a low-carb option, serve with a side of cauliflower rice or a fresh green salad.
Use fresh Italian herbs like basil or oregano if you have them on hand for a brighter taste.
If you prefer, substitute mozzarella with provolone or Monterey Jack cheese for a different cheesy twist.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through to keep the chicken juicy and the cheese melty.

How to Serve

This image shows a close-up of a baked dish in a white baking tray. The dish has one main layer filled with chunks of cooked chicken, sliced mushrooms, and slices of green zucchini, all mixed together and covered with melted golden cheese that has some browned spots on top. Small bits of green herbs are sprinkled across the cheesy layer. A wooden spoon is lifting a portion of the dish on the right side, showing the thick, gooey texture of the cheese and the mixed ingredients underneath. The tray sits on a white marbled surface, and a dark gray cloth is partially visible near the bottom right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed chicken breasts to ensure even cooking and the best texture. If using frozen, make sure to thaw completely before baking.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the bake a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh when ready to eat to maintain the best flavor and texture.

Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 67 reviews

This Chicken Zucchini Bake is a simple and healthy one-pan meal featuring tender, seasoned chicken breasts baked alongside fresh zucchini slices, all topped with melted mozzarella cheese and aromatic Italian seasoning. Perfect for a wholesome dinner, this dish combines lean protein and vegetables with minimal prep and clean flavors.

Author: Ruby
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tsp Italian seasoning (divided)
1 tsp garlic powder

Vegetables & Toppings

2 medium zucchinis, sliced into ½ inch rounds
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning for balanced flavor.
Arrange Ingredients: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and arrange the zucchini slices evenly around the chicken.
Add Olive Oil and Seasoning: Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and zucchini, then sprinkle garlic powder and the remaining Italian seasoning over the top to enhance aroma and taste.
Add Cheese: Cover the chicken and vegetables generously with shredded mozzarella cheese to create a melty, golden topping.
Bake: Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is cooked through with a golden brown crust.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked for safety and juiciness.
Feel free to swap mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar or Parmesan for variation.
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken briefly in olive oil and spices before baking.
This dish pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Keywords: Chicken Zucchini Bake, baked chicken, healthy chicken recipe, zucchini bake, one-pan meal, Italian seasoned chicken