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Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 136 reviews

This Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake is a wholesome and flavorful one-dish meal combining tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and aromatic spices baked to perfection. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe brings savory smoked paprika and cumin notes together with caramelized edges and a fresh herb finish, served over fluffy cooked rice for a comforting and healthy plate.

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

Finishing Touches

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

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven 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 Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the bite-sized chicken pieces with diced zucchini and onion, tossing gently to distribute evenly.
  3. Season Mixture: Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and vegetables, then add minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss thoroughly until every piece is well-coated.
  4. Optional Zucchini Salting: To reduce excess moisture, optionally place 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 to Baking Dish: Spread the seasoned mixture in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Avoid overcrowding to ensure caramelized edges instead of steaming.
  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 Caramelization: For a golden finish, switch oven to broil and broil the dish for 2-3 minutes until edges are browned. Watch closely to prevent burning.
  8. Garnish and Rest: Remove from oven, immediately sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs and an extra pinch of smoked paprika. Let rest for 3-4 minutes to allow flavors to settle and juices to be absorbed.
  9. Serve: Serve the chicken zucchini bake over cooked rice to soak up the flavorful juices and enjoy a balanced meal.

Notes

  • Salting and drying zucchini helps prevent excess moisture that can make the bake watery.
  • Using fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley adds brightness and freshness to the dish.
  • Broiling at the end creates a deliciously caramelized, slightly crispy texture on top.
  • Ensure chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature for safe consumption.
  • This dish pairs well with brown rice or quinoa for a nutritious side.

Keywords: Chicken Zucchini Bake, Easy Chicken Dinner, One Dish Meal, Baked Chicken, Healthy Chicken Recipe, Weeknight Dinner

Find it online: https://tastewithamy.com/easy-chicken-zucchini-bake-recipe/