Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini: A Healthy, Flavorful One-Pan Meal

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Are you looking for a simple, delicious, and nutritious dinner that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen? Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini is the perfect answer! With minimal ingredients, easy preparation, and a flavor that hits all the right notes, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the steps to create this wholesome, oven-baked masterpiece.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Preparing dinner after a long day can feel overwhelming, but this recipe makes it a breeze. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini:

  • One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes to wash!
  • Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with lean protein and fresh veggies.
  • Bursting with Flavor: Seasoned chicken and tender zucchini pair perfectly with aromatic spices.
  • Customizable: Add your favorite herbs, veggies, or spices to make it your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to make this delightful dish. Most of these ingredients might already be in your pantry!

IngredientQuantity
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts4 pieces
Zucchinis2 medium, sliced into rounds
Olive oil2 tablespoons
Garlic powder1 teaspoon
Italian seasoning1 teaspoon (or your favorite herb blend)
Salt and pepperTo taste
Paprika (optional)½ teaspoon
Lemon1, sliced (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to whip up your Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini with minimal effort.

1. Preheat Your Oven

  • Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and let it heat while you prepare the ingredients.
  • Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

2. Season the Chicken

  • In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
  • Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, ensuring every inch is coated for maximum flavor.

3. Prepare the Zucchini

  • Toss the zucchini slices with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, adding a pinch of salt and pepper for flavor.
  • Mix well to coat the zucchini evenly.

4. Arrange Everything in the Baking Dish

  • Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, leaving space between each piece for even cooking.
  • Arrange the zucchini slices around the chicken, ensuring they’re spread out and not piled up.

5. Add a Finishing Touch

  • Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken and zucchini. This keeps the dish moist while baking.

6. Bake to Perfection

  • Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes.
  • Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the zucchini is tender.

7. Garnish and Serve

  • Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
  • Garnish with fresh lemon slices for a bright, zesty flavor.

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Ingredients

  • Fresh zucchini and high-quality chicken ensure a flavorful dish.

2. Customize the Seasoning

  • Experiment with your favorite herbs or spice blends, like rosemary, thyme, or Cajun seasoning.

3. Add More Veggies

  • Include other quick-cooking vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or asparagus for a colorful twist.

4. Ensure Even Cooking

  • Slice zucchini evenly and arrange everything in a single layer for the best results.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients! Here’s a breakdown:

NutrientBenefit
Protein (Chicken)Builds and repairs muscles, keeps you full longer.
Vitamins (Zucchini)High in Vitamin C and potassium for immune support.
Healthy Fats (Olive Oil)Promotes heart health and reduces inflammation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and work just as well. Adjust the cooking time to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

2. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature is 165°F. The juices should also run clear when pierced.

3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can season the chicken and prepare the zucchini in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

4. What should I serve with this dish?

While it’s a complete meal on its own, you can serve it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh side salad for added variety.

5. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

6. How can I make this recipe dairy-free and gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally dairy-free and gluten-free, so no adjustments are needed!

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between ease, flavor, and nutrition. The combination of lean chicken, fresh zucchini, and aromatic herbs creates a dish that’s hearty yet light. Plus, the one-pan method minimizes cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Call to Action

Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to bring your Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini to life! Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to wow your taste buds with this quick and healthy recipe. Share this dish with family and friends, and watch it become a new favorite. Don’t forget to leave a comment about how yours turned out!

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Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini: A Healthy, Flavorful One-Pan Meal


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  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Looking for a simple, healthy, and tasty dinner? This Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini recipe is your perfect solution. With minimal prep and only a handful of ingredients, it’s a one-pan wonder that’s sure to become a family favorite. Baked to perfection, it combines lean chicken with fresh zucchini, seasoned with aromatic spices for a burst of flavor. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze!


Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or your favorite herb blend)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
  • 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
  2. Season the chicken: In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and paprika. Rub this mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
  3. Prepare the zucchini: Toss the zucchini slices with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, adding salt and pepper. Make sure they are well-coated.
  4. Assemble the dish: Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in the baking dish, leaving space between each one. Scatter the zucchini slices around the chicken.
  5. Add a finishing touch: Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken and zucchini.
  6. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the zucchini is tender.
  7. Garnish and serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh lemon slices for a burst of flavor.

Notes

  • Customization: Feel free to swap out zucchini for other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or asparagus.
  • Prep ahead: You can prepare the chicken and zucchini in advance and refrigerate them separately until ready to bake.
  • Freezing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

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