Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe

This Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need a quick yet satisfying meal. Combining tender chicken with fresh zucchini, this dish not only pleases the palate but also offers a nutritious, wholesome option for families. It’s baked in one dish, making cleanup a breeze, and is sure to become a beloved staple at your dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious dinner ready in under an hour.
• One-Dish Wonder: Everything cooks together in one casserole dish, saving you time on cleanup.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, this recipe is a great choice for health-conscious eaters.
• Customizable Flavors: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices for extra flavor without much effort.
• Kid-Friendly: The mild flavors make it appealing to kids and picky eaters alike.

Tools and Preparation

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

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and makes it easy to serve directly from the oven.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining spices and marinating the chicken thoroughly.

Ingredients

To create this delightful Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe, you will need the following 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 of 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

How to Make Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for even cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl:
* Combine garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cumin, sea salt, and pepper.
* Add extra virgin olive oil and mix until well combined to form a marinade.

Step 3: Marinate the Ingredients

Add the cut-up chicken, onion, and zucchini to the marinade:
1. Toss everything together until all pieces are coated evenly.
2. For enhanced flavor, let it marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.

Step 4: Bake in the Oven

Transfer the marinated chicken and vegetables into a baking dish:
1. Spread them out evenly.
2. Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes at 425°F until cooked through.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked:
– Serve hot alongside fluffy quinoa or buttery rice for a delightful meal experience. Enjoy your healthy Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe!

How to Serve Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe

Serving your Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini is simple and versatile. You can pair this dish with various sides or serve it in creative ways to enhance the meal experience.

With Quinoa

• Quinoa is a nutritious grain that provides a light, fluffy texture, complementing the chicken and zucchini perfectly.

Over Rice

• Serving the chicken and zucchini over buttery rice adds heartiness to the dish. Use white or brown rice based on your preference.

In a Salad

• Chop the baked chicken and zucchini into smaller pieces and toss them into a fresh salad for added protein and flavor.

With Whole Wheat Bread

• Serve alongside slices of warm whole wheat bread for a comforting option that can soak up any juices from the dish.

As Wraps

• Use lettuce leaves or whole-grain wraps to create healthy chicken-zucchini wraps, perfect for lunch leftovers.

How to Perfect Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe

To make your Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini even better, consider these tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables like zucchini and onion provide better flavor compared to frozen alternatives.

• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavors, marinate the chicken and veggies for up to 24 hours in advance.

• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak spices based on your taste. Adding more herbs can enhance the overall flavor profile.

• Check Chicken Doneness: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

• Experiment with Vegetables: Try incorporating other vegetables such as bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe

Pairing your Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a classic companion that’s always satisfying.

2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy provide a delightful contrast in flavor to the savory chicken.

3. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients, balancing out the richness of the meal.

4. Couscous Salad
   A refreshing couscous salad tossed with herbs offers a light side that complements the baked main dish beautifully.

5. Grilled Asparagus
   Grilled asparagus adds a smoky flavor profile while remaining crisp, ideal for contrasting textures.

6. Cauliflower Rice
   A low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice is light yet filling, serving as an excellent base for the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s important to avoid common mistakes when making this Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe to ensure delicious results.

• Skipping the marinade: Failing to marinate the chicken and vegetables can lead to bland flavor. Always allow at least 15 minutes for the marinade to soak in.
• Overcrowding the baking dish: Placing too many ingredients in one dish can prevent even cooking. Use a larger dish if necessary, or bake in batches.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking in a cold oven can affect cooking time and texture. Always preheat the oven to 425°F before starting.
• Ignoring vegetable sizes: Cutting zucchini and onion pieces too small or uneven can result in uneven cooking. Aim for uniform sizes similar to chicken pieces for best results.
• Using low-quality olive oil: Cheap oils can alter the taste of your dish. Choose a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for better flavor.
• Not checking doneness: Relying solely on time without checking that chicken is cooked through can lead to undercooked meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or tightly wrap it with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will last up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F, place the dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place portions on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in short intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth or water, cover, and warm until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding this recipe.

How do I customize the Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe?

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for more variety. Adjust spices according to your taste preference as well!

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or lamb if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

What should I serve with this recipe?

This dish pairs perfectly with fluffy quinoa or buttery rice, but you can also serve it with a side salad for added freshness.

How long does it take to prepare the Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe?

The prep time is only about 10 minutes, with an additional 30 minutes of cooking time. Overall, you’ll have this ready in just 40 minutes!

Final Thoughts

This Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe is not only simple but also versatile enough for any occasion. With its rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep! Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices for an even more personal touch!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini

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

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Description

This Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe is a delightful option for busy weeknights when you crave a quick yet satisfying meal. Featuring tender chicken combined with fresh zucchini, this one-dish wonder not only appeals to the taste buds but also provides a nutritious choice for families. With minimal preparation and cleanup, it’s bound to become a go-to recipe at your dinner table.

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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 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

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine garlic powder, smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, sea salt, and pepper. Add olive oil and mix to create a marinade.
3. Toss the chicken, onion, and zucchini in the marinade until evenly coated. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Transfer everything to a baking dish and spread evenly. Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/4 of the dish (approximately 200g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 40g
• Cholesterol: 110mg