Description
A flavorful Tuscan Chicken Zucchini Casserole made with tender chicken breasts, fresh zucchini, and creamy plant-based cheese (plant-based). This one-pan bake combines Italian herbs, smoked turkey bacon, and savory vegetables for a healthy, comforting meal that is family-friendly and easy to prepare. Perfect for a nutritious dinner that delivers layers of rich flavors and pleasing textures.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 4 slices smoked turkey bacon, chopped
Vegetables
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Cheese and Dairy Alternatives
- 1 to 1 ½ cups plant-based cheese (plant-based), shredded or sliced
Oils, Sauces and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (natural)
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (natural)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon natural gelling agent
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken and Vegetables: Slice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season lightly with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (natural). Thinly slice the zucchinis and halve the cherry tomatoes. Mince the garlic cloves and roughly chop the fresh spinach for later use.
- Sauté the Smoked Turkey Bacon and Chicken: Heat olive oil (natural) in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped smoked turkey bacon and cook until crisp. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook until golden on the outside and tender inside. Remove both from heat and set aside.
- Incorporate Vegetables and Seasoning: In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic briefly until fragrant. Add zucchini slices, cherry tomatoes, and spinach. Stir to combine and cook until spinach wilts and vegetables soften. Add apple cider vinegar (natural) and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) for a splash of acidity and umami flavor.
- Assemble the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a casserole dish, combine the cooked chicken, smoked turkey bacon, and vegetable mixture. Sprinkle the natural gelling agent evenly over the mixture to help bind the casserole. Top with a generous layer of plant-based cheese (plant-based).
- Bake Until Golden and Bubbling: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the topping is golden and bubbly around the edges. Let it rest slightly before serving for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Pre-cook chicken properly to avoid overcooking and ensure tenderness after baking.
- Slice zucchini evenly for uniform cooking and texture.
- Use a natural gelling agent to keep the casserole moist and well set without heaviness.
- Add fresh basil or parsley before serving to brighten the flavors.
- Allow the casserole to rest before serving for easier slicing and enhanced taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tuscan, Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: Tuscan chicken casserole, zucchini casserole, plant-based cheese casserole, healthy chicken dinner, one-pan meal, Italian herb chicken bake
