Introduction
This Baked Chicken Zucchini with Bacon is a hearty, wholesome, and flavorful one-dish meal that’s low in carbs but high in protein and cheesy satisfaction. Juicy chicken breasts are topped with sautéed zucchini, crispy bacon, and a blend of Mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Everything is baked to golden perfection in a single casserole dish for easy prep and cleanup. Whether you’re following keto or just looking to eat cleaner, this recipe is a keeper.
🛒 Ingredients
Main:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 small)
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or bacon grease)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13” casserole dish or baking pan.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy.
- Remove the bacon bits and set aside. Reserve 1–2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the pan (or use olive oil if you prefer).
Step 3: Sauté the Zucchini
- Add zucchini and minced garlic to the bacon fat.
- Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the zucchini is slightly tender and moisture begins to evaporate.
- Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Chicken
- Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise if thick, so they cook evenly.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Place the chicken pieces in the prepared casserole dish.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the sautéed zucchini and garlic evenly over the chicken.
- Sprinkle the cooked bacon on top.
- Top with Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Bake
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
- Broil for the last 2–3 minutes to brown the cheese, if desired.
Step 7: Garnish & Serve
- Let rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a simple green salad, cauliflower mash, or steamed broccoli.
- Great for meal prep — just portion into containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
✅ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Low-carb & keto-friendly
- High in protein
- One-pan cleanup
- Cheesy, comforting, and full of veggies