This Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini is a perfect one-pan meal that’s simple, nutritious, and packed with flavor. The tender chicken is seasoned with aromatic herbs, while the zucchini roasts to perfection alongside it. This dish is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner, offering a healthy and satisfying option with minimal prep and clean-up.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil.
3. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
4. Coat the chicken breasts evenly with half of the seasoning mixture.
5. Toss the sliced zucchini with the remaining seasoning mixture.
6. Arrange the chicken breasts in the center of the baking sheet and place the zucchini slices around them.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
8. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the zucchini and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese melts.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Nutrients

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked chicken and zucchini is a fantastic meal that combines simplicity, nutrition, and incredible flavor in one dish. It’s a perfect choice for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or when you want to serve something wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is gluten-free, low in carbs, high in protein, and incredibly easy to make. With just a few basic pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can create a meal that’s satisfying and light at the same time. The chicken is seasoned with a blend of garlic, oregano, basil, and paprika, while the zucchini absorbs all the delicious flavors as it bakes. The final touch of Parmesan cheese adds a rich and slightly crispy texture, making this dish irresistible for the whole family.

Health Benefits of Baked Chicken and Zucchini

This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients essential for a balanced diet. Let’s break down some of the benefits:

• Lean Protein from Chicken: Chicken breasts are an excellent source of high-quality protein, which helps with muscle growth, tissue repair, and keeping you full for longer. This makes it a great option for those following a high-protein diet or looking to maintain a healthy weight.
• Nutrient-Rich Zucchini: Zucchini is low in calories and packed with vitamins such as vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium. It’s also high in fiber, promoting good digestion and gut health.
• Healthy Fats from Olive Oil: Using olive oil in this recipe provides monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health and inflammation reduction.
• Low-Carb & Gluten-Free: If you’re following a low-carb, keto, or gluten-free diet, this meal fits perfectly into your nutritional plan without sacrificing flavor.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the best things about baked chicken and zucchini is that it’s perfect for meal prep. Since it’s a one-pan meal, cleanup is minimal, and it can be made in larger batches for leftovers. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and you’ll have a nutritious meal ready to go throughout the week.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
• Freezer: Although zucchini has a high water content and may become softer when thawed, you can freeze the chicken separately and add freshly roasted zucchini when reheating for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

While this dish is complete on its own, you can pair it with different sides to create a more filling meal:

• For a Low-Carb Option: Serve with a side of mashed cauliflower or a simple green salad.
• For a Balanced Meal: Add a portion of quinoa, brown rice, or whole wheat pasta for extra fiber and nutrients.
• For Extra Flavor: Drizzle some fresh lemon juice over the dish before serving to enhance the flavors and add a slight tanginess.

Customizing the Recipe

One of the best parts about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can switch up the flavors and ingredients based on your preferences:

• Spices & Herbs: Instead of oregano and basil, try using thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning.
• Cheese Variations: Swap Parmesan for feta, mozzarella, or cheddar for a different taste.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or asparagus to the baking sheet for an even more colorful and nutritious meal.
• Make it Spicy: If you enjoy heat, sprinkle cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce for an extra kick.

Why Baking is the Best Cooking Method for This Dish

Baking is one of the healthiest and easiest cooking methods because:

1. It locks in moisture – The chicken remains juicy and tender without needing extra oil or butter.
2. Even cooking – Baking ensures that the chicken and zucchini cook evenly while infusing the flavors together.
3. Minimal effort – Since everything is placed on a single baking sheet, there’s no need for extra pans or dishes, making cleanup super easy.
4. Less oil – Compared to frying or sautéing, baking requires less oil, making the dish lower in fat and healthier overall.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure the best results, avoid these common mistakes:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken breasts can dry out quickly if overbaked. Make sure to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer and remove from the oven once it reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Soggy Zucchini: Since zucchini has a high water content, make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet, allowing space for air to circulate and ensuring a golden, slightly crispy texture.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Don’t be afraid to generously season both the chicken and zucchini to enhance the flavors.

Conclusion

This Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini recipe is the ultimate hassle-free, nutritious, and delicious meal. Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight dinner, a meal-prep option, or a quick recipe that requires minimal effort, this dish ticks all the boxes. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, this one-pan meal provides a satisfying yet light dinner that you’ll want to make again and again. Plus, with the flexibility to customize flavors and ingredients, it’s easy to keep things exciting and fresh. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a flavorful, healthy, and easy meal with minimal cleanup! 😊🍽️