Description
A cozy one-pan dish featuring tender chicken and fresh zucchini, baked under a blanket of melty cheddar cheese. Perfect for weeknights or family dinners.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 medium zucchinis (sliced into 1/4-inch rounds)
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic (minced or pressed)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (dried oregano and basil mix)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sear chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides (about 2-3 minutes each side). Set aside.
3. Add zucchini slices to the same pan. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until JUST tender (don’t overcook).
4. Sprinkle garlic, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the zucchini.
5. Return chicken to the pan, nestling it into the zucchini. Top evenly with grated cheddar.
6. Transfer pan to oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked through and cheese is golden.
Notes
• For extra flavor, add a splash of non-alcoholic vegetable broth to the pan after searing chicken.
• Add 1/2 cup frozen peas mixed into zucchini for heartier texture.
• Let rest at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for best flavor balance.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (including 1 chicken breast and 1/4 pan of zucchini-cheese mixture)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg