Name: Chicken Zucchini Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 2 medium zucchinis, sliced; 1 small onion, diced; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper, to taste; Olive oil, for sautéing

Jump to Recipe

Imagine coming home after a long day and being greeted by the irresistible aroma of a hot, bubbly, and creamy Chicken Zucchini Bake—a dish that’s as comforting as a warm hug from your favorite person. This recipe brings together tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and melted cheese, creating a meal that’s both nutritious and loaded with homestyle flavor. The best part? It comes together quickly and easily, so you spend less time in the kitchen and more time at the table with your loved ones.

Did you know zucchini is often called summer’s secret superstar? That means you can enjoy a hearty and light dinner that makes the most of seasonal veggies. What makes this dish truly special is how it transforms humble ingredients into a showstopping main course, just like my popular Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Bake recipe. Get ready to add a new family favorite to your regular rotation—once you try this Chicken Zucchini Bake, you’ll be hooked!

What is Chicken Zucchini Bake?

Let’s break down the name—Chicken Zucchini Bake. It sounds simple, doesn’t it? And really, it is! Picture juicy shredded chicken mingling with slices of fresh zucchini, all cozied up under a blanket of gooey cheese and baked until golden. Why ‘bake’? Because popping it in the oven gives everything time to meld together and get extra delicious. Some might say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” but honestly, this recipe will win over everyone at your table! Ready to tackle dinner with a dish that sounds fancy but is so easy? Try Chicken Zucchini Bake tonight and see what all the fuss is about!

Why You’ll Love This

There’s so much to adore about this Chicken Zucchini Bake! First, it boasts a beautiful balance between creamy cheeses and fresh zucchini, giving you that satisfying, hearty texture without feeling heavy. Secondly, preparing this dish at home is such a money-saver compared to takeout or buying pre-made casseroles—plus, you control the quality of every ingredient. And let’s talk flavor: melted mozzarella, nutty Parmesan, and savory chicken create a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat. For those who enjoyed my Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole, this bake offers a lighter, veggie-fresh twist. Ready to create a wholesome, flavor-packed dinner? Give this recipe a try and watch it become an instant family favorite!

How to Make

Quick Overview

Chicken Zucchini Bake is the ultimate weeknight winner. It requires minimal prep, simple ingredients, and bakes up in about 30 minutes. With a creamy base, bubbly cheese, and a perfectly set golden top, this dish looks impressive but is a breeze to make! In under an hour, you’ll have a healthy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying main dish that everyone will love.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
2 medium zucchinis, sliced
1 small onion, diced
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 eggs
1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
Olive oil, for sautéing

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Drizzle a bit of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sliced zucchini. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes, just until they are slightly softened and the onion is translucent. Set aside.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked shredded chicken, the sautéed onions and zucchini, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), garlic powder, oregano, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with a little olive oil or nonstick spray. Pour the chicken and zucchini mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Smooth the top with a spoon or spatula.

Step 4: Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the bake is golden and set. The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the edges just starting to brown.

Step 5: Let the Chicken Zucchini Bake cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps everything hold together nicely for serving.

What to Serve With

Chicken Zucchini Bake is hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with a few simple sides. For a fresh, crunchy contrast, serve it with a crisp green salad tossed in a bright vinaigrette. Garlic bread or a slice of crusty baguette makes a perfect companion for soaking up any creamy sauce. If you want something lighter, a side of roasted asparagus or steamed green beans balances out the meal perfectly. For drinks, a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon would complement the flavors wonderfully.

Top Tips for Perfecting

Ingredient swaps: Feel free to use rotisserie chicken for extra convenience or swap in yellow squash for some or all of the zucchini if needed.
Cheese matters: Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and flavor—bagged pre-shredded varieties don’t melt quite as well.
Avoid watery bakes: If your zucchini is extra juicy, you can salt the slices and let them sit for 10 minutes, then blot with paper towels before adding to the skillet. This step prevents the bake from getting too watery.
Season generously: Don’t be shy with salt, pepper, and herbs—zucchini especially loves bold flavors!
Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the oven as the bake nears the finish line. The eggs should be set but not rubbery for the creamiest texture.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Chicken Zucchini Bake makes great leftovers! Once cooled, cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer individual slices to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, place a slice on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes if you prefer. For longer storage, freeze individual portions wrapped in plastic and stored in an airtight bag or container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Chicken Zucchini Bake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the bake, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

What can I use instead of sour cream?
Plain Greek yogurt is a perfect substitute and keeps things creamy and tangy without added fat.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Chicken Zucchini Bake is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for anyone with gluten sensitivities.

Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely. Feel free to toss in diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for variety and extra nutrition.

How do I keep the bake from becoming watery?
Sautéing the zucchini first helps release excess moisture. For very juicy zucchini, you can also salt and drain the slices before cooking.

Conclusion

Chicken Zucchini Bake is proof that delicious, wholesome dinners don’t need to be complicated or time-consuming. Packed with flavor, texture, and melty cheese, this easy recipe is guaranteed to win over both picky eaters and busy cooks. Whether you’re looking for a way to use up leftover chicken or just want a fuss-free weeknight dinner, this bake checks all the boxes. Give it a try tonight, pair it with your favorite sides, and savor every satisfying bite. And don’t forget to explore more of our popular one-dish wonders—you might just find your next favorite meal!