Baked Chicken Zucchini with Bacon
This low-carb, high-protein meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick, hearty, and packed with flavor. Juicy chicken breasts are seasoned with ranch seasoning, layered with zucchini and crispy bacon, then topped with a generous amount of Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese before being baked to perfection. The result? A cheesy, savory, and incredibly satisfying dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!
This one-pan casserole is not only simple to prepare but also a great way to sneak in extra veggies while keeping things rich and indulgent. The zucchini adds a mild, slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the salty, crispy bacon and creamy melted cheese.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Easy to Make – Just layer everything in a dish and bake!
✔ Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly – Perfect for those watching their carb intake.
✔ One-Pan Meal – Less cleanup, more convenience.
✔ Packed with Protein – A great way to fuel your body.
✔ Crowd-Pleaser – The combination of cheese, bacon, and ranch seasoning is irresistible!
Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- ½ oz dry Ranch seasoning mix (about ½ of a standard packet)
- 1 medium zucchini, thinly sliced into rounds
- 6 strips of bacon, cooked, drained, and chopped
- ½ cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for extra juiciness)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Arrange the Chicken
Lay the thinly sliced chicken breasts in a single layer in the casserole dish. If your chicken breasts are thick, consider butterflying them or pounding them to about ½-inch thickness for even cooking.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Sprinkle the dry Ranch seasoning mix evenly over the chicken. If you like extra seasoning, feel free to add a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika for added depth of flavor.
Step 4: Add the Zucchini Layer
Arrange the sliced zucchini rounds on top of the seasoned chicken. If you prefer crispier zucchini, use slightly thicker slices (about ¼-inch thick). For softer zucchini, slice them thinner (⅛-inch).
Step 5: Top with Bacon & Cheese
Evenly sprinkle the chopped cooked bacon over the zucchini. The crispy bacon adds a salty, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the cheese and chicken.
Next, generously sprinkle the Mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top. Mozzarella provides a creamy melt, while Parmesan adds a deliciously nutty and slightly salty kick.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 7: Broil for a Golden Crust (Optional)
For a crispy, golden cheese topping, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Step 8: Let It Rest
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken tender and flavorful.
Step 9: Garnish & Serve
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
This Baked Chicken Zucchini with Bacon is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with:
✔ A fresh side salad – Try a Caesar or mixed greens with a light vinaigrette.
✔ Roasted or mashed cauliflower – A great low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes.
✔ Garlic butter green beans – Adds a bit of crunch and extra flavor.
✔ Keto-friendly dinner rolls – Perfect for soaking up any cheesy, ranch-flavored juices.
Tips & Variations
✔ Use Different Proteins: Swap chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for an even juicier result. You can also use thinly sliced pork chops or salmon fillets.
✔ Make It Creamier: Add a few tablespoons of softened cream cheese or a drizzle of heavy cream over the chicken before baking for a richer, creamier texture.
✔ Try Different Cheeses: Instead of Mozzarella and Parmesan, experiment with cheddar, Gouda, Monterey Jack, or provolone for a unique twist.
✔ Add More Veggies: Enhance the nutritional value by adding sliced mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or spinach to the casserole.
✔ Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or Cajun seasoning over the chicken before baking.
✔ Make It a One-Dish Meal: Add a layer of cauliflower rice or thinly sliced radishes at the bottom of the dish before adding the chicken for a more filling, keto-friendly meal.
✔ Meal Prep Friendly: This dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before baking to ensure even cooking.
2. Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit the cheese altogether and add a drizzle of olive oil for moisture.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave in short bursts.
4. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! Assemble the casserole (without baking), cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Chicken Zucchini with Bacon is the ultimate easy, cheesy, and protein-packed meal that the whole family will love. It’s a great way to keep dinner simple, delicious, and low-carb without sacrificing flavor.