Description
A delicious and hearty Chicken Zucchini Bake combining tender shredded chicken, fresh zucchinis, cherry tomatoes, and a blend of creamy cheeses seasoned with garlic and Italian herbs, baked to bubbly golden perfection. Perfect for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the proper baking temperature before you start assembling the dish.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, sliced zucchinis, halved cherry tomatoes, shredded mozzarella cheese, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly until all components are well incorporated.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Assemble Bake: Transfer the chicken and zucchini mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure even cooking.
- Add Parmesan Topping: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the mixture as a tasty, golden crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove the bake from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to set. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired before serving.
Notes
- Use cooked chicken to save time; rotisserie chicken works well.
- You can substitute mozzarella with other melting cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
- For a lower-fat option, use part-skim mozzarella and reduce or omit cream cheese.
- Fresh basil adds a nice aromatic touch but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Make sure zucchinis are sliced evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
