Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe

Introduction

This Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake is a flavorful and wholesome dish that comes together quickly for a satisfying weeknight meal. Tender chicken pieces and fresh zucchinis are baked with aromatic spices, creating a deliciously comforting plate served over rice.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 medium zucchinis, diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, plus extra for garnish
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
• 2 cups cooked rice, for serving

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a large baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces, diced zucchini, and diced onion, tossing gently to distribute evenly.
3. Step 3: Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture, then add minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss thoroughly until everything is well-coated.
4. Step 4: (Optional) Place the diced zucchini in a colander, sprinkle with ½ teaspoon salt, and let sit for 15 minutes to reduce excess moisture. Pat dry with paper towels before adding to the mix.
5. Step 5: Transfer the seasoned mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it in a single layer without overcrowding so the vegetables can caramelize.
6. Step 6: Bake for 25-30 minutes, checking at 20 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F and the zucchini should be tender.
7. Step 7: For a golden, caramelized finish, switch the oven to broil and broil for 2-3 minutes until the edges brown nicely. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
8. Step 8: Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with fresh chopped herbs and a pinch of smoked paprika. Let rest for 3-4 minutes before serving over cooked rice to soak up the juices.

Tips & Variations

• To avoid soggy vegetables, salting the zucchini beforehand helps draw out moisture for better caramelization.
• Swap cilantro for fresh parsley if you prefer a milder herb flavor.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a bright, fresh touch.
• Use quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of white rice for a low-carb option.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This dish doesn’t freeze particularly well due to the texture of the zucchini, so fresh is best.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and can add extra juiciness. Adjust baking time slightly if needed to ensure they are cooked through.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure your cooked rice or any sides are gluten-free as well.

Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 141 reviews

This Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake is a flavorful, wholesome dish combining tender chicken breast with fresh zucchini and aromatic spices, baked to perfection for a healthy and satisfying meal. Served over cooked rice, it’s a simple and delicious weeknight dinner option that yields caramelized, juicy bites packed with herbs and smoky notes.

• Author: Victoria
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein and Vegetables

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 medium zucchinis, diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings and Oil

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, plus extra for garnish
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped

Serving

• 2 cups cooked rice

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a large baking dish using olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the bite-sized chicken pieces with the diced zucchini and onion, tossing gently to mix evenly.
3. Season the ingredients: Drizzle olive oil over the mixture, then add minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss thoroughly to ensure every piece is well-coated.
4. Optional moisture removal: To reduce excess moisture from zucchini, place diced zucchini in a colander, sprinkle with ½ teaspoon salt, and let it sit for 15 minutes. Then pat dry with paper towels before combining with the chicken and onion.
5. Transfer and arrange: Spread the seasoned mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish in a single layer, avoiding crowding to allow caramelization instead of steaming.
6. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check at 20 minutes to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the zucchini is tender.
7. Broil for caramelization: For a golden finish, switch the oven to broil and broil for 2-3 minutes until the edges are nicely browned. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
8. Garnish and rest: Remove from oven, immediately sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley and an extra pinch of smoked paprika for color. Let the dish rest for 3-4 minutes before serving.
9. Serve: Plate the chicken zucchini bake over 2 cups of cooked rice to absorb the flavorful juices for a complete meal.

Notes

• Salting zucchini before cooking draws out moisture, preventing a soggy bake and enhancing caramelization.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
• Substitute parsley for cilantro if preferred or for a milder herb flavor.
• Broiling at the end intensifies flavor and adds a delicious crispy edge.
• Serve immediately after resting for best texture and taste.

Keywords: chicken zucchini bake, baked chicken recipe, healthy chicken dinner, easy chicken bake, zucchini casserole