Baked Chicken with Zucchini and Tomatoes Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 medium-sized zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced into rounds
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Assemble the Dish: In a baking dish, pour 1 cup of tomato sauce as a base. Place the seasoned chicken breasts on top.
- Layer Vegetables: Arrange sliced zucchini and tomatoes over the chicken. Drizzle with the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Add Cheese (Optional): Remove the foil, sprinkle mozzarella cheese, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until the cheese melts and turns golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm.
Recipe Notes:
- You can substitute chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a juicier texture.
- If you prefer a crispier top, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.
- Add red pepper flakes for a little spice.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and Italian herbs for 30 minutes before baking.
Tips:
✅ Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh zucchini, tomatoes, and basil enhance the flavor.
✅ Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temp reaches 165°F (75°C).
✅ Customize the Cheese: Swap mozzarella for parmesan or feta for a different taste.
✅ Make it Low-Carb: Skip the tomato sauce or replace it with diced tomatoes.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: ~280 kcal
- Protein: ~32g
- Carbohydrates: ~10g
- Fat: ~12g
- Fiber: ~3g
(Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients.)
Health Benefits:
🥒 Zucchini – Rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Helps with digestion.
🍅 Tomatoes – High in vitamin C, lycopene, and good for heart health.
🍗 Chicken Breast – Lean protein that supports muscle growth and repair.
🧄 Garlic – Boosts the immune system and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Q&A Section:
❓ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but thaw it completely and pat dry before baking to avoid excess moisture.
❓ Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions work great.
❓ How can I make this dairy-free?
Skip the cheese or use dairy-free vegan cheese alternatives.
❓ Can I store leftovers?
Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Would you like any modifications or additional details? 😊