Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe

Introduction

This Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake is a wholesome, one-dish meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken pieces are baked with fresh zucchini and seasoned with smoky spices for a flavorful dinner that pairs beautifully with 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 with diced zucchini and onion, tossing gently to distribute evenly.
3. Step 3: Drizzle olive oil over the mixture, then add minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss thoroughly until all pieces are well-coated.
4. Step 4 (optional): To reduce excess moisture, place diced zucchini in a colander, sprinkle with ½ teaspoon salt, and let sit for 15 minutes. Pat dry with paper towels before mixing with other ingredients.
5. Step 5: Transfer the seasoned mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading in a single layer without overcrowding to allow caramelization.
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 (optional): For a golden, caramelized finish, switch the oven to broil and broil for 2-3 minutes until the edges brown nicely. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
8. Step 8: Remove from 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

• Salting the zucchini before baking helps reduce moisture, preventing a soggy dish and enhancing caramelization.
• Swap fresh cilantro for parsley if you prefer a milder herb flavor.
• Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the dish before serving for a bright, fresh finish.
• For extra spice, include a pinch of chili flakes with the other seasonings.
• Try serving this bake with quinoa or couscous instead of rice for variety.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Avoid overcooking during reheating to keep the chicken tender and zucchini firm.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables in this bake?

Yes, feel free to add bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture. Just adjust cooking times if needed to ensure everything cooks evenly.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the mixture a few hours ahead, keep it covered in the fridge, then bake just before mealtime for maximum freshness.

Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 135 reviews

This Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake is a flavorful and healthy dish that combines tender chicken pieces with fresh zucchini and aromatic spices. Baked to perfection and garnished with fresh herbs, it’s a comforting one-pan meal perfect for a weeknight dinner served over fluffy rice.

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

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Vegetables

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

Spices and Oil

• 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

Garnish and Serving

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
• 2 cups cooked rice, for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: 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. Combine Chicken and Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the bite-sized chicken pieces with diced zucchini and onion, tossing gently to distribute evenly.
3. Season the Mixture: Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture, then add minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss thoroughly until every piece is well-coated.
4. Optional Step for Moisture Control: For less excess moisture, optionally place the diced zucchini in a colander, sprinkle with ½ teaspoon salt, and let sit for 15 minutes. Pat dry with paper towels before combining with other ingredients.
5. Transfer and Spread: Transfer the seasoned mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure caramelization.
6. Bake: 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. Broil for Finish: For a more golden, caramelized finish, switch the oven to broil and broil for 2-3 minutes until edges are nicely browned. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
8. Garnish and Rest: Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle with fresh chopped herbs and an extra pinch of smoked paprika. Let rest for 3-4 minutes.
9. Serve: Serve the chicken zucchini bake over the cooked rice, which will absorb the flavorful cooking juices.

Notes

• To reduce moisture and improve texture, salt and drain the zucchini before baking.
• Broiling at the end adds a beautiful golden caramelized edge but requires close attention to avoid burning.
• Adjust spices to taste, especially if you prefer milder or spicier flavors.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
• This dish pairs well with fresh salads or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Keywords: chicken zucchini bake, easy chicken dinner, baked chicken recipe, healthy chicken bake, one pan chicken meal