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Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe for Healthy Dinners

Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake

This Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake is a simple, flavor-packed weeknight dinner made with tender chicken, caramelized zucchini, and warm spices. It’s wholesome, juicy, and perfect served over rice to soak up every drop of the delicious pan juices.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Healthy
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

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
Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika plus extra for garnish
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
  • salt and black pepper to taste
Finishing & Serving
  • 0.25 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
  • 2 cups cooked rice, for serving

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a large baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with diced zucchini and onion, tossing gently to mix evenly.
  3. Drizzle with olive oil, then add garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss thoroughly until all ingredients are well-coated.
  4. (Optional) To reduce excess moisture, place diced zucchini in a colander, sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt, let sit for 15 minutes, then pat dry before adding to the bowl.
  5. Transfer the seasoned mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it into a single even layer to prevent steaming.
  6. Bake for 25–30 minutes, checking at the 20-minute mark. Chicken should reach 165°F and zucchini should be tender.
  7. For more caramelization, switch the oven to broil and broil for 2–3 minutes until edges are browned. Watch carefully.
  8. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh herbs and an extra pinch of smoked paprika. Let rest 3–4 minutes before serving over rice.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon before serving or mix in a spoonful of Greek yogurt for creaminess. Leftovers reheat well and make a great meal prep option.