This Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake is a tasty way to enjoy your veggies! With tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and cheesy goodness, it’s a meal that really hits the spot.
Plus, it’s super simple to whip up—just chop, mix, and bake! I love serving it with a side of rice for a complete dinner. Trust me, even the pickiest eaters will ask for seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is perfect for this dish. For a quicker option, rotisserie chicken also works well; just shred it and mix with the other ingredients. You can use chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier cut.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini gives a nice crunch and mild flavor. If zucchini isn’t available, yellow squash or even bell peppers can be substituted. They add a pop of color and taste too!
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness, but you could use melted butter or any other cooking oil. My personal favorite is avocado oil for its light flavor and high smoke point.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds depth to the dish. If you don’t have it on hand, regular paprika or a pinch of chili powder can work too. Similarly, herbs like thyme or basil can be a nice touch in place of oregano.
Rice: While I like serving it over cooked rice, quinoa or couscous are great substitutes. They provide a different texture and flavor, and both are quick to prepare!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
Keeping your chicken moist can be a challenge, but with these tips, you’ll get it right! First, don’t overcook the chicken. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Cut chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Consider marinating the chicken in olive oil and spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking to enhance flavor and tenderness.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil during the first half of baking to trap moisture, then uncover to finish browning.
With these techniques, you’ll enjoy a delightful, juicy chicken every time! Happy cooking!
Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (plus extra for sprinkle)
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- 2 cups cooked rice (to serve)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 25-30 minutes for baking, totaling about 40 minutes. You’ll spend a little time chopping and mixing, then let the oven do the work. A quick and delicious meal that’s ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, grab your baking dish and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Your Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the bite-sized chicken pieces along with the diced zucchini and diced onion. This is where the magic begins! Toss them together so they’re nicely mixed.
3. Add Flavor:
Next, drizzle in the olive oil and add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss everything again to make sure every piece of chicken and veggie is evenly coated in those delicious flavors.
4. Bake It Up:
Now, transfer the chicken and veggie mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out so it cooks evenly. Pop it in your preheated oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, take it out of the oven and sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley. For a special touch, add a pinch of smoked paprika on top. This adds color and extra flavor!
6. Serve It Up:
Finally, scoop the chicken zucchini bake over a bed of warm cooked rice. It’s ready to enjoy! This dish is not only hearty and wholesome but easy to whip up for a busy weeknight.
This is a meal you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you don’t have zucchini on hand, feel free to substitute with other veggies like bell peppers, asparagus, or yellow squash. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking!
Is This Dish Freezer-Friendly?
Yes, it can be! You can freeze the cooked chicken zucchini bake in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Definitely! If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of smoked paprika and cumin. For a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mix. Adjust to your taste!
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When reheating, ensure it’s heated thoroughly to 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Enjoy your meals for days!
