Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe
This Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake is a wholesome and flavorful one-dish meal featuring tender bite-sized chicken pieces baked with fresh zucchini, onion, and a blend of aromatic spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it offers a healthy balance of protein and vegetables served over fluffy rice, enhanced by a caramelized, slightly smoky finish from smoked paprika and optional broiling.
- 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
Chicken 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
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
Serving
- 2 cups cooked rice
Instructions
- 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.
- Toss Chicken and Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the bite-sized chicken pieces with diced zucchini and onion, tossing gently to distribute evenly.
- Season the Mixture: Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture, then add minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss thoroughly until every piece is evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Optional Moisture Reduction: For less excess moisture, you can place the diced zucchini in a colander, sprinkle with ½ teaspoon salt, and let sit for 15 minutes. Afterward, pat dry the zucchini with paper towels before combining with other ingredients.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Transfer the seasoned mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to prevent steaming and encourage caramelization.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Check at 20 minutes to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the zucchini is tender.
- Optional Broil for Caramelization: For a more golden and caramelized finish, switch the oven to the broil setting and broil the bake for 2-3 minutes until the edges are nicely browned. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Rest: Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley and an extra pinch of smoked paprika for color. Let it rest for 3-4 minutes.
- Serve: Serve the chicken and zucchini bake hot over 2 cups of cooked rice, allowing the rice to soak up the flavorful cooking juices.
Notes
- Patting the zucchini dry after salting helps reduce excess moisture, preventing a watery bake.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
- Broiling at the end adds color and flavor but requires careful monitoring to prevent burning.
- Fresh herbs can be swapped between cilantro or parsley based on preference.
- Serve with rice or a grain of your choice to complete the meal.
Keywords: Easy chicken bake, zucchini chicken recipe, healthy chicken dinner, baked chicken and vegetables, one dish chicken meal
Find it online: https://cheframiflavor.com/easy-chicken-zucchini-bake-recipe/
