How to Make the Best Baked Chicken and Zucchini in 30 Minutes

Introduction

Looking for a quick and healthy dinner idea? Baked Chicken and Zucchini is the perfect meal that’s both nutritious and easy to make. Whether you’re on a time crunch or just want something simple, this dish is ready in just 30 minutes! With tender chicken and perfectly roasted zucchini, it’s a wholesome dinner that the whole family will love. Let’s dive into this easy recipe!

Why You’ll Love Baked Chicken and Zucchini

• Quick and easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes.
• Healthy and light: It’s packed with lean protein and vegetables.
• One-pan meal: Fewer dishes to clean up after dinner!
• Customizable: You can add your favorite herbs and spices.

Now, let’s get started with making this delicious Baked Chicken and Zucchini!

Ingredients for Baked Chicken and Zucchini

You don’t need a lot of ingredients to make this flavorful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredient	Amount
Chicken breasts	2 large, boneless, skinless
Zucchini	2 medium, sliced into rounds
Olive oil	2 tablespoons
Garlic powder	1 teaspoon
Italian seasoning	1 teaspoon
Salt	To taste
Black pepper	To taste
Parmesan cheese	2 tablespoons (optional)
Fresh parsley	For garnish (optional)

These ingredients are easy to find, and you can even swap them out for other seasonings you love. Now let’s jump into how to make Baked Chicken and Zucchini!

How to Make Baked Chicken and Zucchini

This simple recipe involves just a few steps. Here’s how to get it done:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature will help cook the chicken and zucchini quickly, so everything is done in 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Zucchini

• Season the chicken: Drizzle the chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Make sure to coat both sides of the chicken for the best flavor.
• Prepare the zucchini: Slice the zucchini into round pieces. Place them in a bowl and toss with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Arrange on a Baking Sheet

On a large baking sheet, arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in the center. Around the chicken, spread the zucchini slices in a single layer. Make sure the zucchini has some space so it can roast evenly.

Step 4: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the zucchini is tender and lightly browned. If you want to add some extra flavor, sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the zucchini during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once everything is cooked, remove it from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve the chicken and zucchini hot for a satisfying and healthy meal.

Tips for Perfect Baked Chicken and Zucchini

• Pounding the chicken: If your chicken breasts are thick, consider pounding them to an even thickness before seasoning. This helps them cook more evenly.
• Don’t overcrowd the zucchini: Make sure the zucchini slices are spread out on the baking sheet so they roast rather than steam.
• Add flavor: For more flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes before serving.

What to Serve with Baked Chicken and Zucchini

This Baked Chicken and Zucchini can be served as a standalone meal, but you can easily pair it with other sides for a complete dinner. Here are some great ideas:

1. Rice or Quinoa

Serve the chicken and zucchini over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. Both options are light and absorb the savory flavors of the chicken and zucchini.

2. Roasted Potatoes

For a heartier meal, add roasted potatoes on the side. They complement the dish well and make it even more filling.

3. Salad

A fresh side salad with a simple vinaigrette can balance the richness of the chicken and zucchini.

4. Garlic Bread

If you love bread, garlic bread is an excellent choice to serve with this meal. It’s great for dipping into any leftover juices from the chicken.

5. Steamed Vegetables

Add some steamed green beans or broccoli for extra nutrition and color.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	290 kcal
Protein	35g
Carbohydrates	8g
Fat	14g
Sodium	420mg
Fiber	2g

The Baked Chicken and Zucchini is a healthy, low-carb option with plenty of protein and flavor. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a quick, nutritious meal!

FAQs About Baked Chicken and Zucchini

1. Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless chicken breasts? Yes, you can. Just keep in mind that bone-in chicken may take longer to cook. You’ll need to bake it for about 35-40 minutes, depending on the size.

2. Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes to the baking sheet for extra flavor and color.

3. Can I make this ahead of time? While this dish is best served fresh, you can prep everything ahead of time by seasoning the chicken and cutting the zucchini. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

4. Can I use frozen zucchini? Frozen zucchini tends to be more watery, so it’s best to use fresh zucchini for this recipe. If you must use frozen, thaw it and pat it dry to remove excess moisture.

Conclusion

Baked Chicken and Zucchini is a fantastic choice for a quick, healthy meal that’s perfect for busy nights. With just a few ingredients and 30 minutes of your time, you can have a delicious dinner ready to serve. Whether you enjoy it as-is or pair it with your favorite sides, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.

Try it today, and enjoy the easy flavors of baked chicken and zucchini!

Related Recipes You’ll Love

• Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
• Sheet Pan Chicken and Potatoes
• Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken

These recipes are also quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Enjoy!