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Baked Chicken with Zucchini, Cherry Tomatoes & Herbs

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Baked Chicken with Zucchini, Cherry Tomatoes & Herbs

Description

Baked Chicken with Zucchini, Cherry Tomatoes & Herbs is a light, colorful, and flavorful one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or healthy family dinners. Tender, juicy chicken breasts are seasoned with aromatic herbs, garlic, and olive oil, then baked alongside fresh zucchini and sweet cherry tomatoes until everything is perfectly roasted. As the vegetables cook, the tomatoes burst and release their natural juices, creating a light, savory sauce that keeps the chicken moist while enhancing every bite with fresh Mediterranean-inspired flavors. This wholesome recipe is naturally high in protein, packed with vegetables, and requires minimal preparation, making it ideal for meal prep or effortless entertaining. The combination of Italian herbs, garlic, and roasted vegetables creates a comforting yet refreshing dish that pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, pasta, or warm crusty bread. Since everything cooks together in one baking dish, cleanup is quick and easy, allowing you to enjoy a homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious everyday meal or an elegant dinner to serve guests, this baked chicken recipe delivers delicious results every time.

Ingredients For the Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

For the Vegetables

  • 2 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes
  • 1 small red onion, sliced

Seasonings

  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Lemon wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish or sheet pan with olive oil.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If they are very thick, gently pound them to an even thickness for uniform cooking.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Brush the mixture generously over both sides of the chicken.

Step 4: Prepare the Vegetables

Slice the zucchini into bite-sized half-moons and cut the onion into thin slices. Wash the cherry tomatoes and leave them whole.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

Arrange the seasoned chicken in the center of the baking dish. Scatter the zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and onion around the chicken. Drizzle the vegetables with a little olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 6: Bake

Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the vegetables are tender. The tomatoes should soften and begin to burst, creating a delicious natural sauce.

Step 7: Optional Broil

For extra color, switch the oven to broil for the final 2–3 minutes, allowing the chicken and vegetables to lightly caramelize.

Step 8: Rest

Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices.

Step 9: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley, basil, Parmesan cheese, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired. Serve with rice, quinoa, pasta, roasted potatoes, or crusty bread to enjoy every bit of the flavorful pan juices.

Tips, Notes & Q&A

Tips

  • Cut the zucchini into even pieces so they roast uniformly.
  • Fresh herbs added just before serving provide the brightest flavor.
  • Chicken thighs can be substituted for extra juiciness.
  • Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or asparagus for more vegetables.
  • Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
    Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
    Yes. Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
    Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
    Absolutely. Boneless or bone-in chicken thighs work wonderfully and remain very juicy.
    Q: What side dishes pair well with this meal?
    Steamed rice, buttered pasta, quinoa, roasted potatoes, couscous, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad all make excellent accompaniments.

Servings & Nutrition

Servings: 4

Approximate Nutrition Per Serving

  • Calories: 340
  • Protein: 36g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 480mg

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