Savory Chicken Zucchini Bake with Cheese and Herbs (Print version)
Tender chicken and zucchini bake with melted mozzarella, parmesan, and Italian herbs in a creamy one-dish dinner ready in under an hour.
# Ingredients:
For the bake
01 -
1.5 lb (680 g) boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
02 -
2 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/2-inch half-moons
03 -
1 teaspoon salt, plus more for salting zucchini
04 -
2 tablespoons butter, divided
05 -
1 medium onion, diced
06 -
1 red bell pepper, diced (optional)
07 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
08 -
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
09 -
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
10 -
3/4 cup (180 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
11 -
3/4 cup (180 ml) whole milk
12 -
3 oz (85 g) cream cheese, cubed
13 -
1 1/4 cups (140 g) shredded part-skim mozzarella, divided
14 -
1/3 cup (30 g) grated parmesan
15 -
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
16 -
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley
# Instructions:
01 -
Toss zucchini slices with 1 teaspoon salt and let drain in a colander for 10-15 minutes. Pat dry with paper towels.
02 -
Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on most sides, 6-8 minutes. Transfer to a bowl.
03 -
Add zucchini, onion, and bell pepper to the same skillet. Cook 4-6 minutes until starting to soften. Add garlic and Italian seasoning and cook 30 seconds more. Transfer to the bowl with the chicken.
04 -
Add remaining 1 tablespoon butter to the skillet. Stir in flour and cook 1 minute. Whisk in broth and milk, bring to a boil, and cook until thickened, 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in cream cheese and 3/4 cup mozzarella until smooth. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper.
05 -
Drain any liquid from the chicken and vegetables. Stir them into the cheese sauce. Transfer to a 2-quart baking dish. Top with remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella and parmesan. Bake at 400°F (200°C) until bubbly and golden, 18-22 minutes. Let rest 10 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil.
# Good to know:
01 -
Let the casserole rest 10 minutes before serving so the sauce sets.
02 -
Use a foil-lined baking sheet underneath to catch any drips.