Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe

This Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe is a delightful choice for any family dinner. It combines tender chicken with fresh zucchini, all baked in one dish for a hassle-free meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend gathering, this recipe offers great flavor without the fuss. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare and how satisfying it is to eat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have dinner ready before you know it.
• One-Dish Wonder: Everything cooks together in a single casserole dish, making cleanup a breeze.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and vegetables, it’s a nutritious option for any meal.
• Versatile Flavor: The spices used add depth and warmth, making each bite deliciously satisfying.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking while holding all ingredients together.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for marinating chicken and veggies without spills.
• Sharp knife: Makes cutting chicken and vegetables easier and safer.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Vegetables

• 1 pound boneless (skinless) chicken breast cut into bite-size pieces
• 1 medium-size onion (chopped into large pieces similar to the size as the chicken)
• 1 zucchini (sliced vertically into four large pieces, then chopped into smaller pieces)

For the Marinade

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp sea salt or salt to taste
• ¼ tsp freshly milled pepper or pepper to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that your chicken and zucchini start cooking immediately once they are placed inside.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl:
* Add the garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cumin, sea salt, and freshly milled pepper.
* Pour in the extra virgin olive oil.
* Mix until a marinade forms.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Vegetables

Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, chopped onion, and zucchini into the bowl with the marinade.
* Toss everything together until well coated.
* For enhanced flavor, let it marinate for at least 15 minutes or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.

Step 4: Bake in the Oven

Transfer your seasoned chicken and veggies into a baking dish.
* Spread them out evenly.
* Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until fully cooked.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Once done baking, remove from the oven. Enjoy while hot! Pair it with fluffy quinoa or buttery rice for a complete meal.

How to Serve Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe

This Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile in how you can serve it. You can pair it with various sides or enjoy it on its own for a wholesome meal.

With Quinoa

• Quinoa is a great choice as it adds a nutty flavor and is packed with protein. Serve the chicken and zucchini on a bed of fluffy quinoa for a filling meal.

Over Rice

• Fluffy or buttery rice complements the baked dish perfectly. It absorbs the juices from the chicken and zucchini, enhancing the overall taste.

In a Wrap

• For a fun twist, use tortillas to wrap the chicken and zucchini. Add some fresh greens for crunch, making it perfect for lunch.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your dish with chopped parsley or basil. This adds freshness and enhances the flavor profile of your meal.

With a Side Salad

• A crisp salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette pairs well. It balances the richness of the baked chicken.

How to Perfect Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe

To elevate your Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish turns out flavorful every time.

• Choose Quality Chicken: Select fresh, boneless skinless chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.
• Marinate Longer: Letting the chicken marinate for up to 24 hours infuses more flavor into each bite.
• Even Vegetable Sizes: Cut zucchini and onions into similar sizes as chicken pieces for even cooking.
• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly milled pepper and high-quality spices enhance taste significantly compared to older ones.
• Check Doneness: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add other herbs or spices like thyme or rosemary for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe can enhance the meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this flavorful dish.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition while keeping things healthy.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized provide a sweet contrast to savory flavors.
4. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that soaks up juices beautifully while adding a light texture.
5. Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with seasonal vegetables offers brightness to balance richer elements.
6. Quinoa Salad: Tossed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta, this salad is both nutritious and vibrant.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not allowing the chicken and vegetables to marinate can lead to bland flavors. Even a short 15-minute marinade can enhance taste significantly.
• Overcrowding the Baking Dish: If the dish is too crowded, chicken and zucchini may steam instead of bake. Use a larger dish or bake in batches for even cooking.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Failing to preheat your oven can result in uneven cooking. Always allow your oven to reach 425°F before placing the dish inside.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Cooking for too long can dry out the chicken. Set a timer for 30 minutes, but check for doneness a few minutes earlier if you’re unsure.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Every kitchen has different ingredients. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed before baking to ensure great flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storing portions.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months to maintain freshness.

Reheating Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize the Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe?

Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots based on your preference!

What are some side dishes that pair well with this recipe?

Serve this dish with fluffy quinoa, buttery rice, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

All ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure any added spices are also gluten-free.

Is this Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe is not only simple but also delicious and versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. It’s a great way to enjoy a healthy dinner without much fuss—perfect for busy weeknights! Give it a try, and explore different variations that suit your taste!

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Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Discover the ultimate family-friendly dish with this Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe. This one-dish wonder features succulent, seasoned chicken breast paired with tender zucchini and onion, all baked to perfection in just 30 minutes. With only 10 minutes of prep time, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners. The flavorful marinade combines garlic, smoked paprika, and oregano, ensuring every bite is deliciously satisfying. Serve it as-is or pair it with quinoa or rice for a filling meal. Enjoy this nutritious and effortless recipe that will leave your family asking for seconds!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-size pieces)
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 1 zucchini (sliced and chopped)
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Smoked paprika
• Dried oregano
• Cumin
• Sea salt
• Freshly milled pepper
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine garlic powder, smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, sea salt, pepper, and olive oil to create the marinade.
3. Add chicken pieces, chopped onion, and zucchini to the bowl; toss until well-coated. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly.
5. Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 42g
• Cholesterol: 95mg