Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake
This Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake is a quick and nutritious meal featuring tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and savory spices, perfect for busy weeknights.
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)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (plus extra for garnish)
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cumin
- 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 0.25 cup fresh cilantro or parsley (chopped)
- 2 cups cooked rice (for serving)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a large baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the bite-sized chicken pieces with diced zucchini and onion, tossing gently to distribute evenly.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture, then add minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss thoroughly until every piece is well-coated.
- Transfer the seasoned mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it in a single layer for optimal browning and even cooking.
Cooking
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the zucchini is tender but not mushy.
- Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with fresh chopped herbs and an extra pinch of smoked paprika. Serve over warm cooked rice.
Notes
Choose fresh zucchinis that are firm and free of blemishes for the best flavor. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for additional taste and nutrition. Adjust the spices according to your preference. If you like it spicier, you can add some red pepper flakes. For a low-carb option, substitute the rice with cauliflower rice.