Name: Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast – cut into bite-size pieces; 1 medium onion – chopped into large pieces (red, white, or yellow); 1 zucchini – sliced lengthwise into quarters, then chopped into chunks; 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil (or avocado oil); 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp sea salt (or to taste); ¼ tsp black pepper (or to taste)

Looking for a delicious yet simple dish that combines the freshness of vegetables with the heartiness of chicken? This Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe is your go-to choice. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s a delightful concoction that brings together juicy chicken, vibrant zucchini, and a magnetic blend of spices, all baked to perfection in one dish. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and its ability to deliver a satisfying meal without the need for complicated steps or ingredients. Perfect for those busy evenings when time is of the essence, or for those relaxed weekends when you want something wholesome yet effortless. This dish not only prioritizes flavor but also focuses on utilizing healthy, fresh ingredients, making it a sound choice for anyone mindful of their nutritional intake. Furthermore, the one-pan approach means minimal cleanup, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal and less time dealing with dishes in the kitchen. The mix of spices such as smoked paprika and oregano gives it a Mediterranean flair, making each bite a sensory delight.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this recipe, and here’s why it stands out:

One-pan convenience: Enjoy the ease of cooking and cleaning with just one dish.
Healthy & hearty: Offers a good balance of lean protein and nutritious vegetables.
Customizable: Allows for easy swaps or additions, catering to personal preferences.
Meal-prep friendly: Stores well, making it ideal for meal planning.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into cooking, setting up an organized kitchen space is crucial for a seamless experience with this Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe. Start by clearing your counter space to ensure you have enough room to work comfortably. Gather your essential tools: a large mixing bowl, a sharp kitchen knife for chopping ingredients, a sturdy cutting board, and a reliable baking dish. Preferably, use a ceramic or glass baking dish as it retains heat well and allows for even baking. If a ceramic or glass dish isn’t available, a metal pan will work just fine.

Ingredients

To bring this flavorful dish to life, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast – cut into bite-size pieces
1 medium onion – chopped into large pieces (red, white, or yellow)
1 zucchini – sliced lengthwise into quarters, then chopped into chunks
2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil (or avocado oil)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp sea salt (or to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper (or to taste)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Spices

First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven is heating up, it’s time to prepare your spice mix. In a large bowl, combine the garlic powder, smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, sea salt, and black pepper. Add the olive oil to the mix and stir well to create a flavorful marinade.

Step 2: Marinade the Ingredients

Next, add the bite-sized chicken pieces, chopped onion, and zucchini chunks to the bowl with the marinade. Toss all the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the seasoning. For an intensified flavor, let the ingredients marinate for at least 15 minutes; you can leave it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours for maximum infusion.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Once marinated, transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish, ensuring that the ingredients are distributed evenly. Place the dish in the oven and bake it uncovered for about 30 minutes. This will allow the chicken to cook thoroughly while the vegetables achieve a lovely roasted texture.

Variations

Enhance and personalize your Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe with these tasty variations:

Protein: Swap chicken with turkey, or for a vegetarian option, use firm tofu or chickpeas.
Vegetables: Feel free to include bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
Spices: Experiment with basil, rosemary, or thyme to bring a different aroma to the dish.

Cooking Notes

Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind while preparing this dish:

Ensure all zucchini pieces are similar in size for uniform cooking.
Cut chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and tenderness.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy this dish to the fullest with these serving suggestions:

Serve over a bed of quinoa or rice for a complete meal.
Complement with a fresh garden salad for added freshness.

Tips

Maximize your cooking experience with these expert tips:

Double the recipe to have leftovers for quick lunches during the week.
For an extra touch, finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze after baking.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approx. 300 per serving
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 400mg

FAQs

Can I prepare the ingredients in advance?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and veggies up to 24 hours ahead of time, allowing for deeper flavor infusion.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, it stores well. However, for the best texture, consume it fresh or within a few days if refrigerated.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Consider serving it with couscous, mashed potatoes, or a crusty loaf of bread.

Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Feel free to sprinkle parmesan or mozzarella during the last 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy finish.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe stands out as a healthy, convenient, and delicious meal option that fits perfectly into any schedule. Its simplicity and adaptability allow you to modify the dish to your liking or dietary requirements easily. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight solution or a nutritious meal prep option, this recipe is sure to deliver. Its rich blend of spices and the harmonious texture of the ingredients make it an all-time favorite. We encourage you to give it a try, share it with friends and family, or explore the variations to suit your taste!