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High Protein Chicken Zucchini Bake

A creamy, protein-packed chicken zucchini casserole loaded with lean chicken, melted cheese, and fresh vegetables for an easy dinner.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 380

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt plus more to taste
  • freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 medium zucchini thinly sliced
  • 1 small yellow onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 cup shredded low-fat mozzarella cheese divided
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil plus extra for greasing
  • fresh parsley or basil optional garnish

Equipment

  • 9x9-inch baking dish
  • large skillet
  • mixing bowls

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x9-inch baking dish with olive oil.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine oregano, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss chicken pieces in the seasoning until well coated.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden. Transfer to a plate.
  4. Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3 minutes until softened.
  5. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds while stirring constantly.
  6. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and Greek yogurt until smooth. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  7. Return chicken to the skillet and stir together with the onion and garlic mixture. Remove from heat.
  8. Layer half of the zucchini in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  9. Spread half of the chicken-onion mixture over the zucchini.
  10. Pour half of the yogurt-egg mixture evenly on top.
  11. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  12. Repeat layers with remaining zucchini, chicken mixture, yogurt mixture, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
  13. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
  14. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 to 15 minutes until cheese is melted and lightly golden.
  15. Let casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  16. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired and serve warm.

Notes

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The assembled casserole can be refrigerated up to 24 hours ahead before baking. Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 3 months and thaw overnight before baking. Pat zucchini dry to reduce excess moisture. Cottage cheese can replace Greek yogurt for added protein.