Chicken Zucchini Bake

By Tyla | Last modified on Jan 19, 2026

Featured in: Dinner

Discover a comforting and nourishing one-pan Chicken Zucchini Bake that perfectly balances tender shredded chicken with fresh garden zucchini. This bake is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors, enhanced by melted cheeses and savory Italian herbs, making it a wholesome option for family dinners or meal prepping.

The combination of juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy cheeses, and fragrant basil brings a delightful burst of flavor and texture with every bite. It’s a hassle-free dish that requires minimal prep but delivers maximum satisfaction, ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines lean protein and fresh vegetables in a delicious, low-calorie meal.
Simple one-pan preparation saves time and reduces cleanup.
Rich, melty cheeses add comforting creaminess without overpowering the fresh ingredients.

Ingredients

Cooked chicken, shredded (2 cups): Tender shredded chicken provides high-quality protein and a satisfying base for the bake.
Medium zucchinis, sliced (3): Adds fresh, lightly sweet vegetable layers that soften beautifully when baked.
Cherry tomatoes, halved (1 cup): Juicy bursts of acidity that complement the richness of the cheese and chicken.
Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Mild, creamy cheese that melts to a gooey, golden blanket over the dish.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Sharp, nutty flavor that forms a delicious crusty topping after baking.
Cream cheese, softened (1/2 cup): Adds luscious creaminess and binds the filling layers together smoothly.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Provides aromatic warmth and enhances the overall savory profile.
Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A flavorful blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme to deepen complexity.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all flavors.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Used to grease the baking dish and infuse subtle richness.
Fresh basil for garnish (optional): Bright, herbal finish that adds color and fresh aroma.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C): Setting the oven temperature early ensures even, thorough baking once the ingredients are assembled, leading to perfectly cooked vegetables and bubbly cheese.
Combine chicken, vegetables, cheeses, and seasonings: In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, sliced zucchinis, halved cherry tomatoes, shredded mozzarella, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This step blends the flavors evenly and ensures every bite is well-seasoned and creamy.
Prepare the baking dish with olive oil: Lightly coat a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and add a subtle fruity richness to the base of the dish.
Transfer mixture into baking dish and spread evenly: Spread the chicken and vegetable mixture evenly in the prepared dish to promote uniform cooking and browning.
Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top: Topping the bake with Parmesan creates a savory crust that contrasts the creamy interior, adding texture and enhancing flavor.
Bake until tender and golden: Place the dish in the oven for 25-30 minutes until zucchinis soften, and the cheese turns bubbly and golden brown, signaling it is perfectly cooked.
Cool and garnish before serving: Allow the bake to rest briefly to set the layers and garnish with fresh basil for added freshness and visual appeal.

You Must Know

Adjust salt, pepper, and seasoning amounts to suit your taste preferences.
This dish can be assembled in advance and refrigerated before baking for convenience.
Use fresh, firm zucchinis for best texture and flavor retention during baking.

Storage Tips

Store leftover Chicken Zucchini Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain the crusty cheese texture and creamy filling.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this bake alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for added variety and nutrients. It also pairs well with garlic bread or warm crusty rolls to soak up the delicious cheese sauce.

Professional Tips

Use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken to streamline preparation.
For a lighter version, substitute part of the cheeses with low-fat options.
Adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can deepen the flavor profile.

FAQs

Can I use raw chicken for this bake?: This recipe calls for pre-cooked shredded chicken to reduce baking time and ensure even cooking. Using raw chicken would require adjusting baking time and potentially covering the dish to cook chicken safely.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?: Ricotta or Greek yogurt can be used to maintain creaminess but may alter texture slightly.
Can this be made gluten-free?: Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure the seasoning blends do not contain gluten additives.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?: Absolutely, this bake reheats well and can be portioned for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Can other vegetables be added?: You can add sliced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor, but be mindful of their moisture which may affect baking time.
How can I make it spicier?: Incorporate red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce into the mixture before baking.