High Protein Chicken Zucchini Bake
This High Protein Chicken Zucchini Bake is a delicious, nutritious, and protein-packed dish combining tender chicken breast, fresh zucchini, and aromatic Italian herbs. It’s a low-carb, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping, offering a balanced and wholesome option that is quick and easy to prepare.
- Author: Emilly
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free, Low Carb, Keto Friendly
Proteins
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
Vegetables
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Fats & Oils
Cheese & Dairy
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Herbs & Spices
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional), pinch
- Preheat and Prepare Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and slice the zucchini into half-moons to ensure even cooking.
- Sauté Aromatics and Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and diced onion, cooking until fragrant and translucent. Add chicken pieces and sauté until lightly browned but not fully cooked through.
- Combine Ingredients in Baking Dish: Transfer the chicken and aromatics to a casserole dish. Add the sliced zucchini, Italian herbs, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if using. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Add Cheese and Roast: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese generously over the top. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the zucchini is tender.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the bake rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- Cut chicken and zucchini into uniform pieces for consistent cooking.
- Spread ingredients in a single layer in the baking dish to avoid steaming and ensure proper roasting.
- Use fresh herbs when possible to enhance flavor.
- Let the bake rest before serving to lock in moisture and improve texture.
- Taste and adjust seasonings before baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Keywords: high protein chicken, zucchini bake, low carb dinner, meal prep, healthy chicken recipe, keto dinner, gluten free chicken bake