Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini: A Flavorful and Healthy Weeknight Meal

Introduction & Inspiration

As a busy individual, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that are quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini recipe checks all the boxes! It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The inspiration behind this dish comes from my love of simple, wholesome ingredients that shine when cooked together.

Homemade Focus

While you can certainly use pre-seasoned chicken or frozen zucchini, I encourage you to embrace the freshness and flavor of homemade. This recipe is so simple that there’s really no need for shortcuts. Plus, making it from scratch allows you to control the quality of ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking.

Flavor Goal

The goal here is to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor while keeping things light and healthy. The chicken is seasoned with a simple blend of herbs and spices, while the zucchini adds a touch of sweetness and freshness. The result is a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.

Ingredient Insights

Let’s explore the key players in this delightful dish:

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a lean protein source that’s perfect for this recipe.  
• Zucchini: This versatile summer squash adds a vibrant color and a touch of sweetness to the dish.
• Olive Oil: A healthy fat that adds richness and flavor.  
• Garlic Powder: A pantry staple that provides a savory depth of flavor.  
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that adds a classic Italian flavor.
• Paprika: Optional, but adds a touch of smokiness and color.
• Lemon: Fresh lemon slices add a bright, zesty finish.

Equipment

You’ll only need a few basic tools to whip up this easy recipe:

• Baking dish
• Small bowl for mixing seasonings
• Cutting board
• Knife

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or your favorite herb blend)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat Oven:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

Season the Chicken:

1. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
2. Rub this seasoning blend evenly over the chicken breasts.

Prepare the Zucchini:

1. In a separate bowl, toss the zucchini slices with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Arrange in the Baking Dish:

1. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
2. Arrange the zucchini slices around the chicken, ensuring they are evenly spread out.

Drizzle with Olive Oil:

1. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken and zucchini.

Bake:

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the zucchini is tender.

Garnish and Serve:

1. Remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes.
2. Garnish with fresh lemon slices.
3. Serve immediately.

Troubleshooting

• Chicken too dry: Avoid overcooking the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Zucchini too watery: If your zucchini is releasing too much water, you can pat it dry with paper towels before adding it to the baking dish.
• Dish too bland: Adjust the seasoning with more herbs, spices, salt, and pepper to taste.

Tips and Variations

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the seasoning blend for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Feel free to add other vegetables to the dish, such as bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms.
• To make it a complete meal, serve with a side of rice, quinoa, or roasted potatoes.
• For a cheesy twist, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese over the chicken and zucchini during the last few minutes of baking.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini is delicious on its own, but you can also pair it with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread. It’s perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, a healthy lunch, or even a meal prep option.

Nutritional Information

(Per serving, approximate)

• Calories: ~250
• Fat: ~12g
• Cholesterol: ~80mg
• Sodium: ~300mg
• Carbohydrates: ~8g
• Protein: ~30g

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Recipe Summary and Q&A

Recipe Name: Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Yields: 4 servings

Q: Can I use bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts?

A: Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts will take longer to cook.

Q: Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with other vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or asparagus.

Q: Can I freeze this dish?

A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and zucchini. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.