High Protein Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake (Print Version)
High Protein Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake is a simple, healthy meal. Enjoy tender chicken and fresh zucchini in a savory, satisfying dish perfect for weeknights.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Gluten-Free, Low-Calorie, Low-Fat, Diabetic-Friendly
# Ingredients:
→ Hearty Bake Foundation
01 -
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 -
2 medium zucchini (about 1 1/2 lbs total)
→ Creamy Flavor Infusion
03 -
1 tbsp olive oil
04 -
1/2 yellow onion, finely diced
05 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
06 -
1/2 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt
07 -
2 oz light cream cheese, softened
08 -
1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
→ Savory Spice Blend
09 -
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
10 -
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
11 -
1/4 tsp black pepper
12 -
1/2 tsp salt
→ Golden Topping & Garnish
13 -
1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
14 -
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
15 -
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Dice 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. Halve 2 medium zucchini lengthwise, then slice into 1/2-inch thick half-moons. This readies your foundation for the High Protein Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake.
02 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add 1/2 yellow onion, finely diced, and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in 3 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
03 -
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt, 2 oz light cream cheese (softened), and 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth until smooth. Stir in 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp salt.
04 -
Add the diced 1 1/2 lbs chicken breasts and sliced 2 medium zucchini to the skillet with the cooked aromatics. Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken and zucchini, tossing gently to ensure everything is evenly coated. This forms the core of your High Protein Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake.
05 -
Sprinkle 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese and 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken and zucchini mixture in the skillet. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
06 -
Remove the High Protein Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish generously with 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for a burst of fresh flavor and color.
# Notes:
01 -
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also swap chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
02 -
This bake is a complete meal on its own, but pairs wonderfully with a side salad or a serving of quinoa for extra fiber.
03 -
Store any leftover High Protein Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
04 -
Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smoother sauce consistency, preventing lumps. If short on time, microwave it for 10-15 seconds.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
9x13 inch baking dish
02 -
large skillet
03 -
cutting board
04 -
chef's knife
05 -
measuring cups
06 -
measuring spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 500 kcal
Total Fat: 17 g
Total Carbohydrate: 11 g
Protein: 67 g