Baked Chicken and Zucchini

Name: Baked Chicken and Zucchini
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: Ingredients:; 1 egg alternative; 1 tablespoon of water; ½ teaspoon of salt; ⅛ teaspoon of ground black pepper; 1 cup of dry bread crumbs (divided); 2 tablespoons of olive oil; 4 skinless (, boneless chicken breast halves); Olive oil (amount divided); 5 zucchinis (, sliced); 1 tablespoon of minced garlic; 4 tomatoes (, sliced); Mozzarella cheese (amount divided); 2 teaspoons of chopped fresh basil

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Baked Chicken and Zucchini

Are you looking for a delicious and healthy meal that won’t take hours to prepare? Look no further than baked chicken and zucchini! This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With the right combination of spices and perfectly cooked chicken, you’ll have a meal that will satisfy your taste buds and keep you feeling good.

The Perfect Blend of Flavors

When it comes to cooking chicken, it’s all about the flavors. With the right combination of herbs and spices, you can elevate a simple chicken breast to a whole new level. Whether you prefer a tangy lemon and herb marinade or a spicy cajun rub, there’s a flavor profile for everyone.

And let’s not forget about the zucchini! This versatile vegetable adds a lovely crunch and freshness to the dish. Whether you choose to slice it into thin rounds or dice it into bite-sized pieces, zucchini is an excellent addition to any baked chicken recipe.

The Magic of Baking

Why bake chicken instead of grilling or frying it? Well, baking allows for even cooking and helps to retain the moisture and tenderness of the meat. Plus, it’s a healthier cooking method that requires less oil or fat.

When you bake chicken and zucchini together, the flavors meld beautifully, creating a harmonious dish that will have your taste buds dancing. The chicken becomes juicy and flavorful, while the zucchini caramelizes and adds a touch of sweetness.

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the great things about baked chicken and zucchini is how quick and easy it is to prepare. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.

Start by marinating the chicken in your chosen flavors. This step can be as simple as rubbing some spices onto the chicken or as complex as making a marinade from scratch. Let the chicken soak up the flavors for at least 30 minutes or overnight for maximum taste.

Next, slice or dice the zucchini and toss it with some olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the zucchini out on a baking sheet and place the marinated chicken on top. Pop it into the oven and let the magic happen.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs work just as well in this recipe. They have a slightly higher fat content, which makes them extra juicy and flavorful.

2. Can I add other vegetables to the dish?

Of course! Feel free to get creative and add other vegetables to the mix. Bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes are all great options.

3. How long should I bake the chicken for?

The baking time will depend on the thickness of your chicken breasts. As a general rule, bake them for 20-25 minutes at 425째F (220째C) until they reach an internal temperature of 165째F (74째C).

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and chop the zucchini in advance. When you’re ready to cook, simply assemble everything and bake.

5. Can I use frozen chicken?

It’s best to use thawed chicken for this recipe to ensure even cooking. If you only have frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and baking.

6. How can I make this dish spicier?

If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade. You can also sprinkle some chili powder over the zucchini before baking.

7. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and focus on the deliciously baked zucchini. You can even add some chickpeas or tofu for added protein.

8. Can I use other types of meat?

Definitely! This recipe works well with other types of meat like pork chops or turkey cutlets. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked.

In conclusion, baked chicken and zucchini is a simple yet flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. With the right combination of spices, tender chicken, and caramelized zucchini, you’ll have a meal that will impress your family and friends. So why not give it a try today and enjoy a delicious and healthy meal?

Baked Chicken and Zucchini

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 40

Total Time 1

Course dinner

Cuisine American

Servings

Ingredients

Ingredients:
1 egg alternative
1 tablespoon of water
½ teaspoon of salt
⅛ teaspoon of ground black pepper
1 cup of dry bread crumbs (divided)
2 tablespoons of olive oil
4 skinless , boneless chicken breast halves
Olive oil (amount divided)
5 zucchinis , sliced
1 tablespoon of minced garlic
4 tomatoes , sliced
Mozzarella cheese (amount divided)
2 teaspoons of chopped fresh basil

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (205 degrees C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
In a shallow bowl, mix together the egg, water, salt, and pepper.
Set aside 2 tablespoons of bread crumbs and pour the remaining bread crumbs into a large resealable plastic bag.
Dip the chicken into the egg mixture, then place it in the plastic bag and shake to coat it with bread crumbs.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Cook the coated chicken in the hot oil until browned, approximately 2 to 3 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet.
Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet and cook the zucchini and garlic over medium heat until the zucchini is slightly tender, about 2 minutes. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of reserved bread crumbs over the zucchini.
Top with tomato slices, 2/3 cup of mozzarella cheese, and basil. Arrange the chicken on top.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
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