Immerse yourself in the comforting delight of this Chicken Zucchini Bake with Bacon, a culinary masterpiece that harmonizes succulent chicken, tender zucchini, and the delectable crunch of bacon, all smothered in a layer of melted cheese. This simple yet satisfying recipe is perfect for a hearty dinner that promises to please the entire family. Let’s embark on crafting this mouthwatering, cheesy bake.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 0.5 oz dry Ranch seasoning (½ packet)
- 1 zucchini, thinly sliced
- 6 strips bacon, cooked, drained, and chopped
- ½ cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prep:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with a bit of oil or non-stick spray.
- Season the Chicken:
- Place the thinly sliced chicken breasts in a large bowl. Add the dry Ranch seasoning and toss until the chicken pieces are evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Layer the Ingredients:
- Arrange half of the thinly sliced zucchini in a single layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Place the seasoned chicken slices evenly over the zucchini layer.
- Scatter the cooked, chopped bacon pieces over the chicken.
- Arrange the remaining zucchini slices on top of the bacon layer.
- Add the Cheese:
- Sprinkle the shredded Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the zucchini.
- Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the chicken is thoroughly cooked through.
- Serve:
- Let the bake sit for a few minutes after removing it from the oven to allow the juices to settle.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil if desired.
This Chicken Zucchini Bake with Bacon is a versatile dish that can easily adapt to your taste preferences. Experiment with different seasonings or add more vegetables like tomatoes or bell peppers for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition. Enjoy this cheesy, bacony delight with a side salad or your favorite grain for a complete, satisfying meal.