Zucchini Chicken Bake with Tomatoes and Cheese

This delightful zucchini chicken bake is a savory dish combining the freshness of zucchini, the succulence of chicken, and the rich creaminess of cheese and cream. Perfect for a family dinner or a get-together, it balances the flavors of summer vegetables with the tenderness of chicken, topped with a golden cheesy crust. The blend of dill and green onions adds a fragrant freshness that complements the rich creamy sauce. This dish is baked to a perfect golden brown in an oven, making it both delicious and visually appealing. The addition of cherry tomatoes provides a juicy contrast to the milder flavors. It's a versatile recipe that's as nutritious as it is satisfying. Whether you're using garden-fresh zucchinis or store-bought ingredients, this dish is sure to be a hit. It's also an excellent way to make use of seasonal produce and can be easily adjusted for various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2-3 small zucchinis (10-18 cm long)
• 5 eggs
• 1 chicken breast
• 200 ml heavy cream
• 100 g cheese
• 150 g cherry tomatoes

Spices and Herbs

• 2 tablespoons chopped dill
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
• Salt and pepper to taste

Additional

• Butter for greasing

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 60 minutes (including 20 minutes preparation and 40 minutes cooking time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Grease a baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the zucchini by boiling them lightly in salted water for 5-7 minutes. This step softens them, but if you prefer a firmer texture, skip boiling.
3. Slice the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a bowl, beat together the eggs and heavy cream. Stir in the chopped dill, green onions, a pinch of salt, and black pepper.
5. Arrange the pre-cooked zucchini in the bottom of the baking dish. They may release some moisture during cooking, which is perfectly fine for a moist bake.
6. Sprinkle a layer of grated cheese over the zucchini to add flavor and help hold the bake together.
7. Add the seasoned chicken pieces on top of the cheese layer.
8. Scatter the cherry tomatoes across the dish. Their slight acidity brings a nice balance to the dish.
9. Pour the egg and cream mixture over the assembled layers evenly.
10. Place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for about 40 minutes or until it turns a lovely golden brown.
11. Observe the bake closely. If using a glass dish, you can see the sides to check if everything is well-cooked.
12. Remove from the oven once done. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
13. Cut into portions and enjoy while warm.

Tips

• Cheese Varieties: Use any melting cheese like mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor.
• Zucchini Alternatives: Yellow squash can be used as a substitute.
• Additions: Try adding cooked bacon or mushrooms for an extra umami kick.
• Oil Preference: You can use olive oil instead of butter to grease the dish.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
• Protein: 25 g
• Fats: 20 g
• Carbs: 15 g

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
• Low Carb: Use more chicken and decrease the quantity of cream for a lighter version.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad to complement the creamy dish.
• Serve with crusty bread for added texture.
• A light white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with this bake.

Best Places

1. Chez Panisse - Known for its organic and locally sourced ingredients. Location: 1517 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, CA, USA.
2. Le Bernardin - An elegant spot for French seafood. Location: 155 W 51st St, New York, NY, USA.
3. Restaurant Tim Raue - An upscale spot for Asian-inspired cuisine. Location: Rudi-Dutschke-Straße 26, Berlin, Germany.
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6. Noma - Celebrated for reinventing Nordic cuisine. Location: Refshalevej 96, 1432 Copenhagen, Denmark.
7. Eleven Madison Park - Offers a minimalist and luxurious dining experience. Location: 11 Madison Ave, New York, NY, USA.
8. The French Laundry - French influence with a local twist. Location: 6640 Washington St, Yountville, CA, USA.
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10. Gaggan - Famed for its progressive Indian cuisine. Location: 68/1 Soi Langsuan, Ploenchit Road, Lumpini, Bangkok 10330, Thailand.