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Cheesy Zucchini Chicken and Rice Bake

Cheesy Zucchini Chicken and Rice Bake

This Cheesy Zucchini Chicken and Rice Bake combines tender chicken, zucchini, and cheesy goodness in a comforting dish.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • large pot
  • oven-safe casserole dish

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 small/medium zucchini, chopped
  • kosher salt and black pepper
  • 1 yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 pound boneless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
  • 2 tablespoons salted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
  • 1.5 cups basmati or jasmine rice
  • 0.5 cup dry orzo pasta (use gluten free if needed)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
  • 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper more or less to taste
  • 0.75 cup shredded Havarti cheese
  • 0.75 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2-4 tablespoons everything bagel spice (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
  • fresh basil, for serving

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, add the zucchini and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the zucchini is golden, 5-8 minutes. Remove the zucchini from the skillet and set aside.
  • To the skillet, add the remaining oil and the onion. Cook until fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir in the chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is seared, 2-3 minutes. Add the butter, garlic, rice, orzo, and thyme, and cook until golden and toasted, 2-3 minutes. Add the broth and bring to a boil over high heat. Add the zucchini back to the skillet. Add the cayenne and a large pinch each of salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook, covered for 15-20 minutes, until the rice is mostly cooked.
  • Once the rice is cooked, stir in ½ cup of the Havarti and ½ cup of the cheddar. If needed, transfer the rice to an oven-safe casserole dish. Scatter the remaining ¼ cup of each cheese overtop the casserole. Sprinkle on the everything spice and chives.
  • Transfer to the oven and bake 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted. Switch the oven to broil and broil 1-2 minutes, until the cheese on top is becoming crispy. Serve warm with fresh basil.

Notes

To Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole through step 4. Let cool, then cover and keep in the fridge for up to 2 days. To bake, remove from the fridge and let sit at room temp while the oven preheats. Bake as directed. To Freeze: Prepare the casserole through step 4. Let cool, then cover tightly. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or on the counter for 2-3 hours. Bake as directed.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg
Keyword bake, casserole, Cheesy Zucchini Chicken and Rice Bake, chicken, Comfort Food, zucchini
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