This cheesy zucchini and chicken skillet is a hearty, nutritious, and flavorful one-pan meal. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and melted cheddar cheese, it’s a perfect option for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- Zucchinis: 2 medium, grated
- Eggs: 3 large
- Flour: 3 tablespoons
- Onions: 2 medium, diced
- Chicken Fillet: 1, diced
- Bell Peppers: 3 (any color), diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Cheddar Cheese: 120 g, grated
- Salt: To taste
- Black Pepper: To taste
- Cumin: ½ teaspoon
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1 teaspoon
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for garnish
- Olive Oil: For cooking
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini Mixture
- Grate the zucchinis into a large bowl.
- Squeeze out any excess moisture using a kitchen towel or your hands. Removing liquid prevents the dish from becoming soggy.
- Crack the eggs into the bowl and add the flour. Mix thoroughly to create a smooth batter.
- Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, cumin, and red pepper flakes. Stir to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Vegetables
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and drizzle with olive oil.
- Add the diced chicken fillet to the skillet and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add another drizzle of olive oil. Sauté the diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic until softened, about 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
Step 3: Combine the Zucchini and Chicken
- Reduce the skillet’s heat to medium-low and spread the zucchini mixture evenly across the pan.
- Distribute the cooked chicken evenly over the zucchini mixture.
- Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese generously over the top.
Step 4: Cook the Skillet Dish
- Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the zucchini mixture to set and the cheese to melt.
- For a crispy cheese topping, place the skillet under a grill in the oven for 5 minutes, if oven-safe.
Step 5: Serve
- Once the cheese is melted and slightly golden, remove from heat.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Slice into portions and serve warm. Pair with a fresh salad, quinoa, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips
- Zucchini Preparation: Zucchini retains a lot of water. Be sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible to avoid a watery dish.
- Cheese Variations: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Parmesan, or a mix of cheeses for added flavor.
- Add-Ins: Include mushrooms, spinach, or other vegetables for more variety.
- Spice It Up: Adjust the red pepper flakes for your preferred level of heat.
- Chicken Substitute: Use turkey or tofu for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad and vinaigrette.
- Serve alongside cooked quinoa or rice for a hearty meal.
- Add crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
- Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Enjoy as a standalone dish for a light yet satisfying dinner.
Nutritional Benefits
- Zucchini: Low in calories and rich in vitamins A and C.
- Chicken: Provides lean protein to support muscle growth and repair.
- Bell Peppers: High in vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Cheddar Cheese: Adds calcium and a delicious creamy texture.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free: Replace flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour.
- Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace flour with almond flour or skip it altogether.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 25 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 4 g
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze individual portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until heated through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
- Nutritious and Filling: A balanced meal packed with protein, veggies, and cheese.
- Customizable: Easy to adapt with your favorite spices, veggies, or cheese.
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for weeknights or meal prep.
- Family-Friendly: A dish everyone at the table will enjoy.
Conclusion
Cheesy Zucchini and Chicken Skillet is a simple, flavorful, and versatile dish that’s perfect for busy evenings. With tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and gooey cheese, it’s a satisfying meal that brings comfort and nutrition to your table.
Try this recipe today for a quick, hearty, and wholesome dinner everyone will love!