Even though there are dozens of great time-saving appliances available, sometimes we need to just throw something together for dinner and bake it in the oven. The following Cheesy Chicken with Bacon and Zucchini can be put together quickly, and has minimal (6) ingredients. The only real hands-on time is cooking the bacon, which only takes about 5 minutes. Then the chicken pieces are browned in the bacon fat, giving them lots of flavor.

Dry ranch dressing mix, sprinkled over the chicken breasts, is the only seasoning needed. Bacon and Ranch seem to be the trend nowadays, and the combination is delicious. The zucchini comes out crisp-tender and is especially good with the gooey cheese. This chicken bake is perfect for a weeknight, since it is so quick to put together. Add a salad, crispy bread, and rice pilaf to make a complete meal if you have time.


6 Servings

4 ounces thick sliced bacon, chopped

1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast halves, trimmed of all fat and veins and cut into six pieces
1 1/2 tablespoons dry ranch dressing mix
12 ounces small zucchinis, halved lengthwise and sliced
3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

1. Preheat oven to 375º.
2. Spray a 9" square shallow casserole dish with non-stick spray.
3. Cook the bacon in a skillet until crisp.
4. Remove from the pan and drain.
5. Turn the heat up and quickly brown the chicken pieces on each side; place them in the prepared baking dish.
6. Sprinkle evenly with the dry ranch dressing mix.
7. Arrange the zucchini over the chicken and top with bacon.
8. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, then Parmesan cheese.
9. Bake 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and the chicken is cooked through.

Amount Per Serving
Calories 298 Calories from Fat 144
Percent Total Calories From: Fat 48% Protein 48% Carb. 3%

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Total Fat 16 g
Saturated Fat 7 g
Cholesterol 100 mg
Sodium 398 mg
Total Carbohydrate 3 g
Dietary Fiber 0 g
Sugars 0 g
Protein 36 g

Vitamin A 9% Vitamin C 12% Calcium 0% Iron 8%