If you're on the hunt for a delicious, hearty meal that comes together in one pan and requires minimal cleanup, look no further than this One Pan Chicken Zucchini Casserole! Bursting with vibrant flavors from juicy chicken, fresh zucchini, and sweet cherry tomatoes, this dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful treat for your taste buds. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Ready to impress your loved ones with a meal that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying? Let’s dive into the recipe that’s about to become your new favorite!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 2 zucchinis, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure an oven-safe large skillet or casserole dish is ready.
- Pat the diced chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, ensuring even coating.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly golden on the outside.
- Add sliced zucchini to the skillet with the chicken. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until the zucchini begins to soften slightly.
- Distribute halved cherry tomatoes evenly across the chicken and zucchini in the skillet.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the entire mixture, covering the chicken, zucchini, and tomatoes completely.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C) and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set and flavors to meld.
- Serve hot directly from the skillet, optionally garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can dice the chicken and slice the zucchini and tomatoes ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
- Choose the Right Skillet: Make sure to use an oven-safe skillet or casserole dish to make the transition from stovetop to oven seamless.
- Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Properly seasoning the chicken is key to enhancing the flavors. Feel free to add more herbs or spices according to your taste preference.
- Experiment with Cheese: While shredded cheese is a must, don’t hesitate to experiment with different types like mozzarella, cheddar, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick!
- Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking helps the cheese set and makes serving easier.
- Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil right before serving can elevate the dish and add a pop of color.
- Serve with a Side: Pair this casserole with a simple green salad or crusty bread to round out your meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 264kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 60mg
