Tasty Oven-Roasted Chicken and Zucchini Recipe for Dinner

Weeknight dinners demand simple, delicious solutions that satisfy hunger without complicated preparation.

This easy baked chicken and zucchini recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Tender chicken breasts nestle perfectly alongside crisp zucchini slices, creating a wholesome meal packed with protein and vegetables.

The combination of herbs and seasonings infuses each bite with mouthwatering goodness.

Quick to assemble and even faster to cook, this one-pan dish simplifies your evening meal routine.

Minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction await you at the dinner table.

Prepare to transform an ordinary evening into a delightful culinary experience that everyone will love.

Why This Chicken and Zucchini Bake Works So Well

• This one-pan wonder delivers maximum taste with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy home cooks who want delicious meals without complicated steps.
• Packed with lean protein from chicken and nutrient-rich zucchini, this recipe offers a balanced meal that supports healthy eating goals without sacrificing flavor.
• Incredibly versatile dish that can be prepared ahead of time, stored in the refrigerator, and easily reheated for quick weeknight dinners or lunch options.
• Adaptable recipe allows you to swap ingredients, add extra spices, or include different vegetables based on personal preferences and what's available in your kitchen.

Simple Ingredients for Chicken and Zucchini Dinners

• Chicken: A lean protein that serves as the primary ingredient in this roasted dish.

• Zucchini, Onion: Fresh vegetables that add flavor, texture, and nutritional value to the meal.

• Olive Oil: A heart-healthy oil that helps coat and flavor the ingredients.
• Garlic Powder, Smoked Paprika, Dried Oregano, Cumin: Aromatic spices that create a complex and rich flavor profile for the chicken and vegetables.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the dish.

Baking Instructions for Chicken with Veggie Flavor

Step 1: Fire Up The Oven

Crank the oven to a sizzling 425°F.

This high heat will transform your ingredients into a golden, mouth-watering masterpiece.

Step 2: Create A Flavor Explosion

• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Smoked paprika
• Dried oregano
• Cumin
• Salt
• Pepper

Blend everything until you create a rich, aromatic paste that promises incredible flavor.

Step 3: Combine Protein And Veggies

• Chicken pieces
• Zucchini chunks
• Onion slices

Massage the marinade into every nook and cranny of the ingredients, ensuring maximum flavor absorption.

Step 4: Arrange For Perfect Roasting

Spread the marinated chicken and vegetables across a baking dish in a single, beautiful layer.

Avoid overcrowding to guarantee perfect roasting and prevent steaming.

Step 5: Bake To Perfection

Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven.

Roast uncovered for 30 minutes, giving everything a quick stir halfway through to encourage even browning.

You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is fully cooked and the zucchini turns tender.

Step 6: Serve And Savor

Allow the dish to rest briefly, then serve hot.

Get ready to enjoy a delectable meal bursting with incredible flavors!

Tips to Keep the Chicken Juicy and Zucchini Crisp

• Let the chicken and veggies soak up the marinade for maximum flavor intensity, even overnight in the refrigerator for deeper taste profiles.
• Spread ingredients in a single layer to ensure proper roasting, avoiding steaming that can make zucchini watery and soft.
• Use a meat thermometer to check chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature for safe and perfectly cooked protein.
• Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving to add a bright, fresh note and enhance the dish's overall taste.
• This recipe is naturally low-carb and keto-friendly, making it perfect for those watching their carbohydrate intake while enjoying a delicious meal.

How to Save and Reheat Chicken Zucchini Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, keeping chicken and zucchini together to maintain moisture and flavor.
• Transfer cooled dish to freezer-safe container, seal tightly, and freeze for maximum 2 months; label with date for easy tracking.
• Place portion on microwave-safe plate, cover with damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly and prevent drying.
• Warm in preheated 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture, then uncover last 2-3 minutes for slight crispy edges.

Pair This Dish With These Easy Sides

• Savor Zesty Mediterranean Wine Pairing: Crisp, light white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complement the herb-infused chicken beautifully, cutting through the richness while enhancing the dish's bright flavors.
• Create Herb-Inspired Garnish Accent: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or mint over the final dish to elevate the Mediterranean profile, adding a vibrant green pop and fresh herbaceous notes that match the recipe's spice blend.
• Match Tangy Side Companions: Serve alongside tzatziki or Greek yogurt sauce to provide a cool, creamy contrast to the warm spiced chicken, balancing the dish's robust flavors with a refreshing tanginess.
• Boost Flavor with Citrus Finish: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken just before serving to brighten the entire meal, adding a zesty layer that awakens the smoked paprika and cumin undertones.

Ways to Tweak the Flavors in This Simple Bake

• Low-Carb Keto Version: Replace zucchini with cauliflower florets for a lower-carb alternative that maintains the same roasting technique and flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, cutting it into similar-sized pieces and following the same marinating and roasting method.
• Mediterranean-Style Adaptation: Add crumbled feta cheese and chopped kalamata olives during the last 10 minutes of baking for a Greek-inspired flavor boost.
• Spicy Herb Variation: Incorporate fresh chopped rosemary and red pepper flakes into the marinade for an extra kick of heat and aromatic herbs.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of zucchini for this recipe?

Yes, you can use yellow squash, green zucchini, or a mix of both. Just make sure they’re fresh and cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.

• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and zucchini up to 24 hours in advance, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Store the marinated mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

• What if I don't have all the spices mentioned?

No worries! You can substitute or adjust the spices based on what you have. Try using Italian seasoning or herbs de Provence as alternatives. The key is to maintain a balance of flavors.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check that your spices are certified gluten-free if you have severe sensitivities.

Easy Baked Chicken And Zucchini Recipe

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4.6 from 28 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Mediterranean-inspired Chicken and Zucchini Bake delivers a flavorful one-pan dinner packed with herbs and fresh ingredients. Fresh herbs, garlic, and olive oil create a delicious meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast
• 1 medium-size onion
• 1 zucchini

Herbs and Spices:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly milled pepper

Cooking Liquid:

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven environment by heating to 425°F, ensuring a high-temperature cooking zone for optimal roasting and caramelization.
2. Craft a robust marinade by blending olive oil with garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper until a cohesive, aromatic mixture forms.
3. Integrate chicken, zucchini, and onion into the marinade, thoroughly coating each ingredient to maximize flavor absorption. Optional: refrigerate for up to 24 hours for enhanced taste development.
4. Arrange marinated ingredients across a baking dish, distributing in a single layer to promote uniform cooking and prevent steaming. Use multiple dishes if overcrowding occurs.
5. Position the baking dish in the preheated oven, roasting uncovered for 30 minutes. Midway through cooking, rotate and stir ingredients to ensure consistent browning and even heat distribution.
6. Verify chicken’s doneness by checking internal temperature and confirming zucchini’s tender texture. Remove from oven and allow brief resting period before serving.
7. Present the roasted dish while still warm, allowing the vibrant flavors and enticing aromas to enhance the dining experience.

Notes

• Experiment with different herbs and spices like rosemary, thyme, or even curry powder to transform the flavor profile without changing the cooking method.
• Swap chicken with tofu, fish, or lean turkey for a different protein option that works perfectly with the same marinade and cooking technique.
• This recipe is naturally low-carb and keto-friendly, making it an excellent choice for those following specific dietary restrictions or weight management plans.
• Cook a double batch and store in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator, ensuring quick and delicious meals throughout the week.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 100mg