If you’re looking for a dish that effortlessly combines simplicity with delightful flavors, this Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe is sure to become a favorite. It brings together tender chicken, vibrant zucchini, and aromatic spices for a mouthwatering meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein from chicken and nutrient-rich zucchini, it’s a wholesome choice for dinner.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of spices like smoked paprika and cumin adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in enhancing the overall taste, bringing rich flavors and textures to your plate.
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast: Opt for high-quality chicken for juicier results.
- Onion: Adds a sweet and savory depth that complements the spices beautifully.
- Zucchini: Provides a fresh, vibrant taste and a lovely tender texture.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Ensures the chicken and zucchini remain moist while baking.
- Spices (Garlic Powder, Smoked Paprika, Dried Oregano, Cumin): These create a balanced and aromatic flavor profile.
- Sea Salt and Freshly Milled Pepper: Enhances all the natural flavors while offering a slight kick.
Variations
This Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe is incredibly adaptable. Feel free to mix and match ingredients, making it suitable for different dietary needs and preferences.
- Add Some Heat: Sprinkle in some chili flakes or cayenne pepper for an added spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for firm tofu or chickpeas to make a vegetarian version.
- Cheesy Delight: Top with shredded mozzarella or parmesan for a cheesy finish.
How to Make Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Marinade
Preheat your oven to 425°F. In a large bowl, whisk together the spices, salt, and pepper with the extra virgin olive oil to create a luscious marinade. This step is crucial as it sets the stage for infusing your chicken and vegetables with irresistible flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
Add the bite-sized chicken, onion pieces, and zucchini to the marinade. Toss everything until well-coated. For intense flavors, let it marinate for at least 15 minutes or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the marinated chicken and vegetables to a baking dish. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30 minutes until the chicken is cooked and delivers golden, flavorful pieces.
Pro Tips for Making Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe
- Marinade Magic: The longer you marinate, the more intense the flavors. Try overnight marination for a real taste explosion.
- Uniform Chopping: Chop the chicken and vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking.
- Nailing the Bake: Ensure the oven is well-preheated to give the chicken a nice crisp texture on the outside.
- Zucchini Greatness: Keep the zucchini pieces slightly larger to avoid getting too mushy during cooking.
How to Serve Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe
Garnishes
Top your dish with fresh parsley or basil for a burst of fresh flavor and a beautiful pop of color. A sprinkle of lemon zest can also add a refreshing tang.
Side Dishes
Pair this delightful dish with a serving of fluffy quinoa or buttery rice. The grains absorb the delightful juices from the dish, complementing the flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving it family-style by placing the baking dish at the center of the table, inviting everyone to help themselves. For individual servings, use colorful plates to enhance this dish’s visual and appetizing appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This keeps it fresh and delicious for future meals.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken and zucchini. Ensure portions are tightly sealed to preserve freshness and flavor, and consume within three months for best results.
Reheating
Reheat the leftovers in the oven or microwave until heated through. If using the oven, a low heat will help maintain the dish’s textures without drying out.
FAQs
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Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey or even shrimp for a seafood twist.
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Do I need to peel the zucchini?
No, there’s no need to peel the zucchini. Its skin adds color and nutrients to the dish.
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What other vegetables can I add?
Consider adding bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms to your dish for more variety and flavor.
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How can I make this dish spicier?
Incorporate more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the marinade for extra heat.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to try this Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe! With its ease of preparation and delectable taste, it’s a surefire hit for any meal. Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s bound to please!
Print
Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini recipe is a quick and healthy meal perfect for weeknights. Juicy chicken pieces are seasoned with aromatic spices and roasted alongside tender zucchini and onions for a flavorful, oven-baked dish. It’s simple to prepare, customizable, and pairs beautifully with grains like quinoa or rice for a complete meal.
Ingredients
Proteins
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, chopped into large pieces
- 1 zucchini, sliced vertically into four large pieces then chopped into smaller pieces
Seasonings and Oils
- 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)
- 1/4 tsp freshly milled pepper (or pepper to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 425°F (220°C) and allow it to fully preheat to ensure even cooking.
- Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, combine the spices (garlic powder, smoked paprika, oregano, cumin), salt, and pepper. Add the olive oil and mix thoroughly until a marinade forms.
- Add ingredients to marinade: Place the chicken, onion, and zucchini into the bowl with the marinade. Toss everything together until the ingredients are evenly coated and seasoned. For optimal flavor, marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
- Transfer to baking dish: Spread the marinated chicken and vegetables evenly in a baking dish, making sure they are not overcrowded.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake uncovered at 425°F (220°C) for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden, and the vegetables are tender.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, serve hot, and enjoy with a side of fluffy quinoa or buttery rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- You can customize the spices to suit your taste, adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for additional flavor.
- This dish can also be cooked on a grill or broiled for different textures.
- For added crunch, sprinkle with grated cheese or chopped fresh herbs before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
