Easy Cheesy Keto Chicken Zucchini Bake

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Zucchini: This vegetable adds moisture and texture. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash works well too! It’s similar in taste and texture, keeping the dish fresh.

Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut here. You can also use leftover chicken or even canned chicken in a pinch if you’re in a hurry.

Cheeses: Mozzarella gives that lovely stretchiness. If you want a sharper taste, try swapping out half of it for cheddar. For a different twist, use cream cheese mixed into the heavy cream for extra creaminess.

Heavy Cream: It creates a rich sauce. For a lighter option, use half-and-half or even Greek yogurt, but the texture will be a bit different.

How Do You Get the Zucchini Just Right for This Bake?

The key to perfect zucchini is not overcooking it. If you sauté it too long, it’ll get mushy when baked. Here’s how to do it:

• Slice zucchini into even rounds to ensure they cook uniformly.
• Sauté over medium heat with olive oil or butter for just 5-7 minutes. You want them to be tender but still hold their shape.

This method keeps the zucchini firm, so your bake maintains a pleasant bite and doesn’t turn watery!

Easy Cheesy Keto Chicken Zucchini Bake

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Bake:

• 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll spend around 35 minutes to have it ready on your table. A quick and satisfying low-carb meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot for your bake.

2. Sauté the Zucchini:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it cook for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Next, toss in the sliced zucchini and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the zucchini is just tender. Once done, set it aside.

3. Combine the Chicken and Cheese Ingredients:

In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, heavy cream, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy.

4. Layer the Ingredients in a Baking Dish:

Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking. Start by layering half of the sautéed zucchini at the bottom. Then, spread the chicken and cheese mixture evenly over the zucchini layer. Finally, top it with the remaining zucchini slices and sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese over the top.

5. Bake to Perfection:

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top has turned a lovely golden color.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Then, garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, cheesy chicken zucchini bake!

This dish is not only keto-friendly but also packed with flavor, making it a hearty choice for dinner any day of the week!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Recipe?

It’s best to use fresh zucchini for the best texture and flavor. However, if you only have frozen zucchini, be sure to thaw and drain it well before using. Squeeze out any excess moisture to prevent the bake from becoming watery.

How Can I Store Leftovers?

You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it up in the oven until heated through.

Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?

Yes! To make it dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream alternative and use dairy-free cheese varieties. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly!

What Can I Serve With This Dish?

This Cheesy Chicken Zucchini Bake is delicious on its own but can be paired with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For low-carb options, try serving it with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles!