Crustless Chicken, Zucchini & Cheese Delight
Crustless Chicken, Zucchini & Cheese Delight is the kind of recipe that proves comfort food doesn’t need a crust to be satisfying. This dish brings together tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and melted cheese in a light yet filling bake that works beautifully for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. By skipping the crust, the focus stays on protein, vegetables, and rich flavor, making it a great option for low-carb or gluten-free lifestyles. It’s easy to prepare, adaptable to what you have on hand, and perfect for meal prep. Whether served warm straight from the oven or reheated the next day, this dish delivers creamy texture, savory depth, and everyday simplicity.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
Cooked chicken breast: 2 cups, diced or shredded
Zucchini: 2 medium, grated
Eggs: 4 large
Milk or cream: 1/2 cup
Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend): 1 1/2 cups
Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Olive oil: 1 Tbsp
Salt: 1 tsp
Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
Paprika or Italian seasoning: 1 tsp
Fresh parsley or chives: 2 Tbsp, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and lightly grease a baking dish.
Grate the zucchini and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean towel.
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Sauté the onion for 2–3 minutes until soft, then add garlic and cook briefly.
Add the cooked chicken to the pan and stir to combine. Remove from heat.
In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk or cream, salt, pepper, and seasoning.
Stir in grated zucchini, chicken mixture, and half of the shredded cheese.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
Bake for 35–40 minutes until set and lightly golden. Let rest before slicing.
Tips
Squeezing zucchini well prevents excess water in the bake.
Use cooked chicken to save time, including leftovers or rotisserie chicken.
Let the dish rest after baking to firm up for clean slices.
Choose full-fat cheese for best melting and flavor.
Avoid overbaking to keep the texture creamy.
Season generously since zucchini is mild.
A glass or ceramic dish bakes more evenly.
Chop chicken evenly for consistent texture.
Add herbs just before baking for freshness.
Serve warm for best flavor.
Variations
Low-carb: Use heavy cream instead of milk.
Spicy: Add chili flakes or diced jalapeños.
Mediterranean: Add olives and feta cheese.
Veggie-loaded: Add mushrooms or bell peppers.
Herb-forward: Add fresh basil or thyme.
Dairy-free: Use dairy-free cheese and almond milk.
Cheese swap: Try Gruyère or pepper jack.
Breakfast style: Add cooked turkey bacon.
Mini portions: Bake in muffin tins for 20 minutes.
Extra protein: Add an extra egg.
Q & A
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it contains no flour or crust.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, it reheats very well.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze portions for up to 2 months.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar and mozzarella are both great choices.
Can I use raw chicken?
Cook it first for safety and texture.
Is it suitable for kids?
Yes, it’s mild and soft.
Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?
Yes, they work the same way.
Why is my bake watery?
Zucchini wasn’t squeezed enough.
Can I cook this in a pan?
Baking gives the best result, but stovetop is possible.
What can I serve with it?
A fresh salad or roasted vegetables pair well.
Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 28 g
Carbohydrates: 6 g
Fat: 20 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 3 g
Conclusion
Crustless Chicken, Zucchini & Cheese Delight is a simple, satisfying dish that fits effortlessly into everyday cooking. It’s rich without being heavy, flexible enough to customize, and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy comfort food with fewer carbs. Whether you serve it fresh from the oven or as a make-ahead meal, this recipe delivers reliable flavor, nourishing ingredients, and stress-free preparation every time.