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Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 340 reviews

This Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake is a wholesome, flavorful one-dish meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender bite-sized chicken pieces are combined with fresh zucchini and onion, seasoned with smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano, then baked to perfection. Finished with fresh herbs and served over cooked rice, this dish delivers a satisfying blend of textures and savory flavors with minimal prep and cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Main 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. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). 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 the Mixture: Drizzle olive oil over the mixture, then add minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss thoroughly until every piece is well-coated.
  4. Optional – Reduce Zucchini Moisture: For less excess moisture, optionally 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 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 vegetables caramelize 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, caramelized finish, switch the oven to the broil setting and broil for 2-3 minutes until edges are nicely browned. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
  8. Garnish and Rest: Remove from oven, sprinkle immediately with fresh chopped herbs and an extra pinch of smoked paprika for color. Let rest for 3-4 minutes to allow cooking juices to be absorbed.
  9. Serve: Serve the baked chicken and zucchini over cooked rice to soak up the flavorful juices.

Notes

  • For best texture, avoid overcrowding the baking dish to promote caramelization rather than steaming.
  • Salting zucchini beforehand helps reduce excess moisture and prevents a soggy bake.
  • Use fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a bright, fresh finish.
  • Cooked rice can be white, brown, or your preferred variety.
  • Ensure chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.

Keywords: Chicken zucchini bake, baked chicken recipes, healthy chicken dinner, easy chicken bake, one dish chicken zucchini, gluten free chicken bake

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