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Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 103 reviews

This Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake is a protein-packed, one-dish meal featuring tender chicken breast and fresh zucchini seasoned with smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano. Baked to perfection with caramelized edges and served over fluffy rice, it’s a healthy, flavorful dinner perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. The recipe is simple, uses wholesome ingredients, and delivers a satisfying Mediterranean-inspired taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Vegetables

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 medium zucchinis, diced (about 6–8 inches long each)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings and Oils

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Herbs and Serving

  • 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). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Combine Chicken and Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with diced zucchini and diced onion, aiming for uniform size for even cooking.
  3. Add Oil, Garlic, and Spices: Drizzle olive oil over the mixture. Add minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss thoroughly with hands or a spoon to coat everything evenly.
  4. Optional Zucchini Prep to Reduce Moisture: To reduce excess moisture, place diced zucchini in a colander and sprinkle with ½ teaspoon salt. Let sit for 15 minutes, then pat dry with paper towels before mixing with the rest.
  5. Arrange in Baking Dish: Spread the seasoned chicken and vegetable mixture in a single layer in the prepared baking dish, avoiding overcrowding to promote caramelization.
  6. Bake the Dish: 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 Golden Finish: For extra caramelized edges, switch the oven to broil and broil for 2-3 minutes until nicely browned. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
  8. Garnish and Rest: Remove from oven, immediately sprinkle with fresh chopped herbs and an extra pinch of smoked paprika. Let rest for 3-4 minutes before serving over cooked rice to soak up the flavorful juices.

Notes

  • Cut chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking and texture.
  • Do not overcook chicken; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and juiciness.
  • For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken in the oil and spice mixture for 30 minutes before baking.
  • Adjust spices by increasing them by 25% or add ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning for a stronger flavor profile.
  • Serving over rice helps absorb delicious cooking juices; for a drier dish, drain excess liquid and bake an additional 5 minutes.
  • For a hotter, quicker bake, increase oven temperature to 400°F and bake for 20-25 minutes.
  • Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze portions for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to maintain texture, adding chicken broth if dry.

Keywords: chicken zucchini bake, healthy chicken dinner, easy baked chicken recipe, one dish meal, Mediterranean chicken recipe, healthy weeknight dinner

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