Italian Chicken and Zucchini Bake
A cozy Italian-style chicken bake layered with tender zucchini, juicy chicken pieces, aromatic garlic, tomatoes, Italian herbs, and a light mozzarella-parmesan topping. Bakes to golden perfection while staying healthy and fresh.
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 25–30 minutes
Total: ~40–45 minutes
Servings:4
Ingredients
For the Chicken
500g boneless chicken breast or thighs, diced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
For the Veggies
2 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
1 medium red onion, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt & pepper to taste
For the Bake
½ cup marinara sauce
¾ cup shredded mozzarella
2 tbsp grated parmesan
Fresh basil or parsley for topping
Instructions
1. Preheat
Heat oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Season & Sear the Chicken
In a pan, heat 1 tbsp olive oil.
Add diced chicken, season with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt & pepper.
Sear for 4–5 minutes until lightly browned (does not need to be fully cooked).
Turn off heat.
3. Prepare the Veggies
In a bowl, mix zucchini, tomatoes, red onion, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Toss well.
4. Assemble the Bake
Use a medium baking dish:
Spread marinara sauce on the bottom.
Add the seared chicken.
Add all the veggies on top.
Sprinkle with mozzarella and parmesan.
5. Bake
Bake 25–30 minutes uncovered until:
Cheese is melted and golden
Zucchini is soft
Chicken is fully cooked
6. Garnish
Top with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Serving Ideas
With brown rice, orzo, quinoa, or garlic herb bread
Over whole-grain pasta
Or enjoy it as a low-carb bowl on its own!
Notes
Use light mozzarella for a healthier version.
Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies.
For creamy version: add 2 tbsp ricotta mixed into the marinara layer.
Tips
Don’t overbake or zucchini will become too soft.
Searing the chicken first keeps it juicy.
Keep tomatoes whole if you want less liquid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this without marinara?
Yes! Mix ½ cup olive oil + lemon juice + Italian herbs for a fresh version.
Q: Can I use only cheese without sauce?
Yes—just increase mozzarella to 1 cup and sprinkle some dried oregano.
Q: Meal prep friendly?
Very! Stays fresh 3–4 days.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 340
Protein: 38g
Carbs: 10–12g
Fat: 16g