This Easy Cheesy Keto Chicken Zucchini Bake is a tasty dish that combines chicken and zucchini with lots of gooey cheese. It’s low in carbs and big on flavor!
Who doesn’t love melting cheese? I often make this dish for dinner because it’s simple and the leftovers taste even better! Perfect for those busy nights! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is essential for this dish. It adds moisture and a subtle flavor. If you can’t find zucchini, you can use yellow squash or even eggplant as a replacement. Both work really well!
Chicken: I like to use leftover rotisserie chicken for ease, but any cooked chicken works. You might also swap it for cooked turkey for a slightly different taste.
Cheese: Mozzarella is great for meltiness, while cheddar adds a sharper flavor. You can use any cheese you prefer or have on hand, like Monterey Jack or Havarti. Just keep in mind the flavor will change slightly.
Heavy Cream: This gives a great richness to the dish. If you need a lighter option, you can substitute with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream like coconut cream for a different twist.
How Do I Cut Zucchini for the Best Texture?
Cutting zucchini correctly is key to achieving the right texture in your bake. Here’s how:
- Slice the zucchini into thin, even rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. This helps them cook evenly.
- For a slightly crunchier texture, you can also cut the zucchini into half-moons if you like.
- Salt them lightly and let them sit for a few minutes before cooking. This draws out some moisture and helps prevent a watery dish.
By paying attention to how you prepare the zucchini, you’ll enhance the texture and flavor of your meal! Enjoy your cooking! 🍽️
Easy Cheesy Keto Chicken Zucchini Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
For Preparation:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take you about 10 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of baking time. So in total, just 35 minutes to a cheesy, comforting meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This makes sure it’s hot and ready for your bake.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil. This prevents the bake from sticking and adds a little extra flavor!
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, just until the garlic is fragrant—be careful not to burn it!
4. Cook the Zucchini:
Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. Season with a pinch of salt, pepper, and the dried Italian seasoning to add more flavor.
5. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sautéed zucchini, heavy cream, and half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Mix everything together well until combined!
6. Transfer and Spread:
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly so every bite has that yummy goodness!
7. Add More Cheese:
Top your chicken and zucchini mixture with the rest of the mozzarella, cheddar, and the grated Parmesan cheese. This will create a delicious, cheesy crust!
8. Bake it Up:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to be melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the dish cool for just a few minutes. This makes it easier to serve.
10. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley or basil on top before serving for a pop of color and freshness. Dig in and enjoy your comforting, cheesy keto-friendly chicken and zucchini bake!
Happy cooking! 🍽️
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Fresh Chicken Instead of Cooked?
Absolutely! If you want to use raw chicken, just sauté it in the skillet first until fully cooked, then shred or dice it and proceed with the recipe as directed.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk or coconut cream. Just keep in mind that the consistency and richness may vary slightly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or oven until heated through. You may want to add a little splash of cream or broth to keep it moist.
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Bake?
Yes! You can definitely mix it up by adding other low-carb veggies such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Just remember to sauté them like the zucchini to ensure they’re tender and flavorful!
