Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe

Introduction

This Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake is a wholesome and flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender chicken combines with fresh zucchini and aromatic spices for a satisfying meal 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 the olive oil over the mixture, then add minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss thoroughly until every piece is well-coated.
4. Step 4: 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. Step 5: Transfer the seasoned mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to allow for 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: For a golden finish, switch the oven to broil and broil for 2-3 minutes until edges are browned. Watch closely to prevent burning.
8. Step 8: Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh chopped herbs and an extra pinch of smoked paprika. Let rest for 3-4 minutes before serving over cooked rice.

Tips & Variations

• Salting the zucchini before baking reduces moisture and helps achieve caramelized edges.
• Swap cilantro for fresh parsley if preferred or to vary the flavor.
• Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice after baking for a bright finish.
• For extra heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes with the spices.

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. The dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used as an alternative for a juicier and more flavorful result. Adjust cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. This chicken zucchini bake stores well and reheats nicely, making it ideal for preparing meals ahead of time for busy weekdays.

Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 149 reviews

This Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake is a simple and flavorful one-dish meal combining tender chicken pieces with fresh zucchini and onions, seasoned with smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano. Baked to perfection and served over warm rice, it offers a healthy and comforting dinner option that’s quick to prepare and irresistibly delicious.

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

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein & 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 & Herbs

• 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

Other

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups cooked rice, for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a large baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix ingredients: 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 chicken and vegetables, add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss thoroughly until everything is well-coated.
4. Optional zucchini moisture prevention: For less moisture in the bake, place the diced zucchini in a colander, sprinkle with ½ teaspoon salt, and let sit for 15 minutes. Then pat dry with paper towels before mixing with other ingredients.
5. Prepare for baking: Transfer the seasoned chicken and vegetables to the prepared baking dish, spreading them in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure proper caramelization.
6. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, checking at 20 minutes to make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the zucchini is tender.
7. Broil for caramelization: For a golden, caramelized finish, switch your oven to broil and broil the dish for 2-3 minutes until the edges brown nicely. Watch it closely to prevent burning.
8. Garnish and rest: Remove from the oven, immediately sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley and an extra pinch of smoked paprika for color. Let rest for 3-4 minutes.
9. Serve: Spoon the chicken and vegetable bake over warm cooked rice to absorb the flavorful juices and enjoy.

Notes

• Salting and draining the zucchini helps reduce excess moisture for a better texture.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked to 165°F for safety.
• Broiling adds a nice caramelized finish but watch carefully to avoid burning.
• You can substitute rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
• Fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley brighten up the dish and add freshness.

Keywords: chicken zucchini bake, baked chicken and vegetables, smoked paprika chicken, healthy chicken bake, easy chicken dinner, one-dish meal, baked chicken zucchini casserole