Baked Chicken and Zucchini

Introduction

Looking for a healthy, flavorful dinner that the whole family will enjoy? This Baked Chicken with Zucchini and Mozzarella is the perfect choice. With tender, golden-brown chicken, sautéed zucchini, juicy tomatoes, and a melty cheese topping, this dish is as comforting as it is nutritious.

Why Make This Recipe

This dish is a fantastic balance of lean protein and fresh vegetables, making it a wholesome dinner option. The combination of breaded chicken, sautéed zucchini, and mozzarella cheese offers the perfect amount of crunch, tenderness, and gooey cheesiness. Plus, it's easy to make and packed with flavor!

How to Make Baked Chicken with Zucchini and Mozzarella

Ingredients:

• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon water
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.125 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 cup dry bread crumbs
• 4 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
• 5 zucchinis, sliced
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 4 tomatoes, sliced
• 0.66 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 teaspoons chopped fresh basil

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the Coating: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the egg, water, salt, and pepper. Set aside 2 tablespoons of bread crumbs, and pour the rest into a large resealable plastic bag.
3. Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, then transfer it to the plastic bag with bread crumbs. Shake well to coat each piece evenly.
4. Cook the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
5. Sauté the Zucchini: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sauté the zucchini and garlic over medium heat for about 2 minutes until the zucchini is slightly tender. Transfer the zucchini and garlic into the prepared baking dish.
6. Assemble the Dish: Sprinkle the reserved bread crumbs over the zucchini. Layer the tomato slices, 2/3 cup of mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil on top. Place the browned chicken breasts over the veggies. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (no longer pink in the center). Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached 165°F (74°C). Uncover the dish, sprinkle the remaining 1/3 cup of mozzarella cheese over the chicken, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and melted.

How to Serve Baked Chicken with Zucchini and Mozzarella

Serve this dish hot with a side of whole grain rice, a light salad, or some roasted veggies. The mozzarella and zucchini make it flavorful enough to enjoy on its own, but it’s also a great pairing with other sides.

How to Store Baked Chicken with Zucchini and Mozzarella

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Tips to Make Baked Chicken with Zucchini and Mozzarella

• For extra crunch, add a bit of grated Parmesan cheese to the bread crumbs before coating the chicken.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, sprinkle a little crushed red pepper flakes over the zucchini or chicken before baking.
• You can swap the zucchini for other vegetables like eggplant, bell peppers, or mushrooms if you prefer.

Variation

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or goat cheese for a different flavor profile. You can also add fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for an extra burst of flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs would work just as well in this recipe. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs typically take a little longer to cook through.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish and refrigerate it, then bake it when you're ready. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.

3. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
While it's best to use fresh chicken breasts, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before breading them.

Enjoy your cozy and flavorful Baked Chicken with Zucchini and Mozzarella! 🍽️🍗