This Easy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash Bake is a tasty one-pan meal! Juicy chicken paired with tender zucchini and squash makes for a healthy and colorful dish.
I love how all the flavors blend together while baking, making it super easy to prepare. Just pop it in the oven, and you’ve got a delicious dinner with minimal cleanup!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for lean protein. If you’re looking for alternatives, turkey breasts can also work, or you can use chicken thighs for a juicier bite.
Zucchini & Squash: Fresh zucchini and yellow squash add a nice flavor and texture. If you don’t have these, try using bell peppers, asparagus, or even eggplant as substitutes.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for flavor. If you’re out, garlic powder can be a quick alternative—just use about 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps with cooking and adds richness. If you’re looking for a substitute, avocado oil or melted butter are great choices.
Parmesan Cheese: This is optional but adds a nice cheesy finish. If you don’t have Parmesan, try using Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Making sure your chicken is cooked perfectly can be a bit tricky. Here’s how to get it right:
- First, pat the chicken dry to ensure good seasoning and browning.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness, aiming for 165°F (74°C).
- Baking covered helps to keep moisture in, while removing the foil at the end allows the top to brown.
- If your chicken is thick, you might want to pound it to an even thickness for more uniform cooking.
Resting the chicken for a few minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute, making it more tender!
Easy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced into half-moons
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken bake will take about 10 minutes for preparation and approximately 40 minutes of baking time, making it a great option for a quick and hearty meal. Just a little waiting time while it bakes, and then you’re ready to eat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot for baking your meal.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced zucchini, yellow squash, and onion. Add in the minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and the Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together until the vegetables are well coated with the seasoning and oil.
3. Spread the Veggies:
Pour the vegetable mixture into a large baking dish, spreading it out evenly across the bottom.
4. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them cook better! Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika for a bit of flavor.
5. Arrange the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the vegetable layer in the baking dish. Spread them out so they’re not overlapping.
6. Add Olive Oil:
Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken breasts to keep them juicy while baking.
7. Bake with Foil:
Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. This will help the chicken cook through without drying out.
8. Uncover and Add Cheese:
After 25 minutes, remove the foil. If you’re using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the chicken and vegetables. Bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is cooked through.
9. Rest the Dish:
Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to settle, keeping the chicken juicy.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Top with fresh chopped parsley or basil for a fresh flavor kick. Then, dig in! Enjoy your wholesome and colorful chicken bake!
With minimal effort, you have a hearty and nutritious meal that’s sure to please the whole family!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash Bake
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way is to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for a quick thaw.
What Vegetables Can I Substitute?
If you don’t have zucchini or squash on hand, feel free to substitute with other vegetables! Bell peppers, asparagus, or even broccoli work great. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s slightly chilled when you put it in the oven.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave it gently or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Enjoy your leftovers as a quick meal!
