Chicken Zucchini Cheese Bake

This chicken zucchini cheese bake became a weeknight hero for me when I needed something hearty and filled with vegetables that didn’t require babysitting on the stove. It brings together tender baked zucchini, juicy chicken, and plenty of cheese into one bubbling dish that satisfies everyone at the table.

I first tested this recipe when my mother-in-law brought over a pile of zucchinis from her garden and it turned into such a hit that now I make extra to freeze.

Ingredients

• Shredded cooked chicken: for protein and easy meal prep try using rotisserie chicken for convenience
• Medium zucchinis sliced: for moisture and mild flavor choose firm zucchinis that feel heavy for their size
• Cherry tomatoes halved: to balance the richness with bursts of freshness pick ones that are glossy and bright
• Mozzarella cheese shredded: for melty texture and mild flavor go for whole milk mozzarella if you like extra creaminess
• Grated Parmesan cheese: for salty depth buy a wedge and grate yourself for best flavor
• Cream cheese softened: to add a creamy base let it sit at room temperature so it blends smoothly
• Garlic powder: for savory backbone make sure it smells fresh not dusty
• Italian seasoning: for herbs in every bite use your favorite blend or make your own with oregano thyme and basil
• Salt and pepper to taste: to bring all the flavors together
• Olive oil: for greasing the dish and adding richness look for extra virgin with a fruity aroma
• Fresh basil for garnish optional: to add color and a pop of flavor choose leaves that are deep green and unwilted

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven:

Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 190 C or 375 F This is key to even cooking and a bubbly golden top

Mix the Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl combine shredded chicken sliced zucchini cherry tomatoes mozzarella cheese cream cheese garlic powder Italian seasoning salt and pepper Blend everything well so the cream cheese is evenly distributed and every bite will be flavorful

Grease the Baking Dish:

Coat a 23 by 33 cm or 9 by 13 inch baking dish lightly with olive oil This prevents sticking and adds a touch of richness

Layer and Top:

Spread the chicken and vegetable mixture evenly in the greased dish Use a spatula to nudge it into all corners Scatter grated Parmesan cheese in a uniform layer over the top to create a salty golden crust

Bake:

Transfer the dish to the oven Bake for 25 to 30 minutes watching for the zucchini to become tender and the cheese to form a golden bubbly top

Cool and Garnish:

Let the bake cool for a few minutes to set Sprinkle fresh basil on top for a burst of color and serve warm in generous scoops

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Every time I make this I look forward to the sweet burst of cherry tomatoes nestled in the cheesy layers There is always a fight for the crispy corner pieces in my house

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool completely and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator They will keep well for up to four days This dish also freezes nicely portion it out and wrap tightly to enjoy another time Microwave or reheat in the oven to serve again just as fresh

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap in rotisserie chicken or even leftover turkey to simplify things If cream cheese is unavailable Greek yogurt also gives creaminess For mozzarella try swapping with provolone or Monterey Jack

Serving Suggestions

Serve this bake with a simple green salad or over cooked quinoa for an even more filling meal It pairs well with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon

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Recipe FAQs

→ How do I prevent watery texture in the bake?

Drain excess moisture from the zucchini before mixing. Salt slices lightly, let them sit, then pat dry.

→ Can I substitute cheese types?

Yes, try a blend of mozzarella and cheddar, or add ricotta for extra creaminess while maintaining a melty finish.

→ What's the best way to shred chicken for this dish?

Use cooked rotisserie or poached chicken, then pull apart with forks or use a hand mixer for finer shreds.

→ Will the vegetables cook evenly?

Slicing zucchini into uniform rounds ensures even cooking. Arrange them well-covered with the cheesy mixture.

→ How do I reheat leftovers?

Cover and bake at 160°C (325°F) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot throughout.