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
- 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.
- Season the chicken: In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and paprika. Rub this mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Prepare the zucchini: Toss the zucchini slices with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, adding salt and pepper. Make sure they are well-coated.
- Assemble the dish: Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in the baking dish, leaving space between each one. Scatter the zucchini slices around the chicken.
- Add a finishing touch: Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken and zucchini.
- 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.
- 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