Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake

Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake is a simple dish that uses common ingredients for a reliable dinner option. This recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. It’s a healthy choice that works well for families and anyone looking for a tasty, comforting meal.

What Makes This Recipe a Favorite

Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake offers a delicious combination of flavors and textures. The tender chicken pairs well with the soft, flavorful zucchini, creating a satisfying meal. The use of spices adds depth to the dish, making it appealing to everyone at the table.

This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal cooking time. Baking the dish allows for even cooking, ensuring the chicken is juicy and the vegetables remain tender. For similar recipes, consider trying a healthy veggie stir-fry or chicken and rice casserole.

Ingredients for This Recipe

Gather these ingredients to make your Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake:

• Chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
• Zucchini: Diced to enhance flavor and texture.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the bake.
• Olive oil: Helps to coat the ingredients and adds a rich taste.
• Garlic: Freshly minced for a strong flavor boost.
• Smoked paprika: Provides a smoky taste that complements the chicken.
• Cumin: Adds warmth and earthiness to the dish.
• Oregano: Offers a hint of herbal flavor.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Pepper: Adds a little heat and seasoning.
• Fresh herbs: For garnish, adding freshness and color.
• Rice (optional): A great base for serving the dish.

Measurements are in the recipe card.

How to Make This Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake

You can prepare this meal in just a few steps. Follow these instructions to create a simple yet satisfying dish.

Step 1: Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a large baking dish so the ingredients do not stick.

Step 2: Combine ingredients
In a mixing bowl, add chicken, zucchini, and onion. Toss gently until everything is mixed.

Step 3: Season the mixture
Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and vegetables. Add garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss again until everything is coated evenly.

Step 4: Transfer to baking dish
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it into a single layer for even cooking.

Step 5: Bake
Put the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the zucchini is tender.

Step 6: Add finishing touches
Remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle with fresh herbs and an extra pinch of smoked paprika before serving.

Serve over warm cooked rice for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

Make your cooking experience smoother with these tips:

1. Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken, zucchini, and herbs enhance flavor.
2. Choose uniform sizes: Cut chicken and zucchini into similar sizes for even cooking.
3. Adjust spices: Feel free to change spices based on personal preferences.
4. Let it rest: Allow the dish to sit for 5 minutes before serving for better flavor distribution.

These tips will help ensure a successful bake every time.

Equipment Needed

• Large baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Variations

• Add cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top before baking for a creamy finish.
• Swap veggies: Include bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Use different proteins: Try with turkey or tofu for a different protein option.
• Change the herbs: Experiment with basil or thyme for different flavor profiles.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with rice: A great base that complements the bake.
• Pair with salad: A light salad balances the richness of the dish.
• Include bread: Serve with crusty bread for a hearty meal.

FAQs About This Recipe

Can I prep this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and bake when you’re ready.

How do I store leftovers?
Cool the dish and transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

What can I substitute for zucchini?
You can use summer squash or even broccoli as an alternative.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this a great option for a gluten-free meal.

Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake

A simple, healthy dish featuring chicken and zucchini, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb Chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces Use fresh chicken for best flavor.
• 2 medium Zucchini, diced Provides flavor and texture.
• 1 medium Onion, diced Adds sweetness and depth.
• 2 tbsp Olive oil For coating and richness.
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced Enhances flavor.

Spices

• 1 tsp Smoked paprika For a smoky taste.
• 1 tsp Cumin Adds warmth.
• 1 tsp Oregano Provides herbal flavor.
• 1 tsp Salt Enhances overall flavor.
• 1/2 tsp Pepper Adds seasoning.

Garnish and Serving

• 2 tbsp Fresh herbs, for garnish Adds freshness.
• 2 cups Rice, cooked (optional) For serving.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a large baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine chicken, zucchini, and onion.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the mixture and add garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
4. Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish, spreading it in a single layer.

Cooking

1. Bake for 25-30 minutes, ensuring chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and zucchini is tender.
2. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh herbs and additional smoked paprika before serving.
3. Serve over warm cooked rice if desired.

Notes

Use fresh ingredients and cut everything into uniform sizes for even cooking.