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Chicken Zucchini Bake

A delicious one-dish meal featuring tender chicken, juicy zucchini, and creamy cheeses, perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

Vegetables and Seasoning
  • 2 medium zucchini, diced Adds moisture and a mild flavor.
  • 1 medium sweet onion, diced Provides natural sweetness.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Enhances the flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher salt Essential seasoning.
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper Essential seasoning.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Infuses a warm, smoky flavor.
Main Ingredients
  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cubed A lean protein source.
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch Thickening agent.
  • 1 cup chicken broth Adds depth and moisture.
Cheeses
  • 1 cup Monterrey jack cheese, shredded Adds a creamy texture.
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated Adds a salty, nutty flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine diced zucchini, diced onion, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and half of the seasonings until evenly coated. Set aside.
  3. Toss the cubed chicken with the remaining paprika, salt, pepper, and cornstarch until well coated.
Cooking
  1. In a large pan, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to lift the browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  4. Spread the seasoned zucchini and onion mixture in a baking dish.
  5. Pour the seared chicken and broth over the zucchini in the dish.
  6. Sprinkle Monterrey jack and parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
  7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  8. After 25 minutes, uncover the dish and stir well.
  9. Continue to bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until lightly golden on top.
  10. Stir before serving and enjoy your delicious chicken and zucchini bake.

Notes

For best results, consider marinating the chicken beforehand. Skip the deglazing step for more sauce. This dish can accommodate various vegetables and spices for different flavors.