If you’re looking for an effortlessly delicious, hearty, and wholesome dinner, the Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe is going to become your new weeknight superstar. It brings together tender, flavorful chicken breasts with perfectly roasted zucchini, all coated in a blend of aromatic herbs, garlic, and a golden layer of Parmesan cheese. This dish is straightforward, packed with vibrant colors and textures, and a total crowd-pleaser that makes dinner both nourishing and exciting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe lies in its simplicity—the ingredients are easy to find and each one plays an integral role in creating layers of flavor, perfect texture, and a visually appealing plate. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Offers lean protein and a tender base for the dish.
- 2 medium zucchinis: Adds freshness, vibrant green color, and a slight crunch once baked.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps brown the chicken and zucchini beautifully while providing healthy fats.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a warm, savory aroma that enhances the chicken’s flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds an earthy, herbaceous note that pairs wonderfully with zucchini.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Imparts a subtle smoky sweetness and gorgeous color.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Elevates all the other flavors without overpowering them.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides just the right amount of spice for balance.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into a golden crust, adding richness and a nutty flavor.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Offers a fresh, vibrant finish and a pop of color.
How to Make Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for creating juicy chicken with tender zucchini. While the oven warms up, lightly grease your baking dish to prevent sticking and to help the chicken and vegetables develop a lovely crisp.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Pat your chicken breasts dry to ensure the seasoning sticks well. Then, give both sides a generous rub of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried oregano, and paprika. This seasoning mix builds a flavorful crust during baking that’s wonderfully aromatic.
Step 3: Prep the Zucchini
Wash and trim the zucchinis before slicing them into thin rounds—about a quarter inch thick. Toss them with a tablespoon of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. This light coating helps the zucchini roast evenly and develop a slightly caramelized edge.
Step 4: Assemble in the Baking Dish
Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in the greased baking dish, then nestle the zucchini slices all around the chicken. This layout allows the flavors to mingle as they cook together—each bite of chicken will have some of that delicious zucchini essence.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle a generous half cup of grated Parmesan cheese evenly over both the chicken and zucchini. The cheese melts and browns to create a savory, golden topping that’s simply irresistible. Bake in your preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the zucchini is tender.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
When the chicken and zucchini come out of the oven, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a beautiful burst of color and flavor that’ll make your dish feel extra special and fresh.
How to Serve Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil not only brightens the presentation but also adds a lovely herbal freshness that complements the baked flavors perfectly.
Side Dishes
This Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides like fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a crisp, green salad to keep the dinner light but satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chicken and zucchini over a bed of quinoa or couscous, letting the juices soak into the grains. Alternatively, stack the chicken on top of the zucchini rounds for an elegant layered presentation that’s sure to impress guests at dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for a quick and nourishing meal the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the baked chicken and zucchini for up to 2 months. Be sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to preserve the chicken’s moisture and keep the zucchini from becoming soggy. Alternatively, microwave on medium power, stirring or flipping halfway through for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in sliced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even thinly sliced eggplant for a different flavor and texture, keeping the same seasoning blend.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep. The chicken and zucchini reheat well and provide a balanced meal that is both protein-rich and veggie-forward, making your weekly lunches or dinners a breeze.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese substitute. The dish will still be flavorful thanks to the herbs and spices.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
If fresh parsley isn’t on hand, you can use dried parsley flakes or substitute with fresh basil or cilantro for a different but equally tasty finish.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way is to check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer. When it reads 165°F (75°C), the chicken is fully cooked and safe to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe enough for anyone who wants a fuss-free, delicious meal that feels special without a ton of effort. Give it a try and watch how it quickly becomes a household favorite, perfect for busy nights and relaxed weekends alike!
Print
Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A simple and healthy baked chicken and zucchini recipe that combines tender, seasoned chicken breasts with lightly spiced, Parmesan-coated zucchini slices. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner and requires only basic ingredients and minimal prep time.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Vegetables & Toppings
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the optimal temperature for baking.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Chicken: Wash and pat dry the chicken breasts thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Season Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts evenly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried oregano, and paprika.
- Place Chicken: Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare Zucchini: Wash the zucchinis under cold running water, trim off both ends, and slice them into thin rounds about 1/4-inch thick.
- Season Zucchini: Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the zucchini slices and toss to coat evenly. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- Arrange Zucchini: Place the seasoned zucchini slices around the chicken breasts in the baking dish.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over both the chicken breasts and zucchini slices for added flavor.
- Bake: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and zucchini is tender.
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken’s internal temperature is 165°F (75°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
- Finish and Garnish: Remove the baking dish from the oven and sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over the chicken and zucchini.
- Serve: Serve the baked chicken and zucchini immediately alone or with your choice of side dish.
Notes
- Make sure chicken breasts are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
- If zucchinis are large, adjust slices thickness to about 1/4 inch for even tenderness.
- You can substitute Parmesan cheese with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
- For a smoky twist, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the seasoning.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to retain juices.
