Zucchini Chicken
A flavorful one-pan dish featuring tender chicken and fresh zucchini, cooked with aromatic vegetables and lemon, perfect for a hearty, wholesome meal for family or friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place all ingredients except chicken and zucchini in a shallow roasting pan and put the chicken on top; brush with melted butter.
- Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes.
- Add sliced zucchini to the pan.
- Bake for an additional 30 minutes or until the chicken and zucchini are tender.
- Remove chicken, zucchini, and lemon slices from the pan.
- Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/2 cup cool chicken bouillon or water until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into the pan, stirring constantly, and bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Boil for 1 minute.
- Serve the dish around the chicken pieces on a large platter.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice and thyme for a few hours before cooking. You can substitute zucchini with summer squash or even bell peppers if desired. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences, and feel free to add other herbs like oregano or basil for a different twist. This dish is also great for meal prep and can be made ahead of time.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Zucchini Chicken on a large platter, garnished with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation. It pairs wonderfully with a side of rice or crusty bread to soak up the juices. For a complete meal, consider serving with a light salad or roasted potatoes. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and vegetables in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zucchini Chicken contains roughly 403 calories, with 13g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (245% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (139% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (88% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2075mg per serving (90% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken, but reduce the cooking time as boneless pieces cook faster. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety. You may also need to adjust the amount of broth or water to maintain moisture, as boneless chicken can dry out more easily.
What can I substitute for the chicken bouillon?
If you don't have chicken bouillon, you can use low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth as a substitute. Alternatively, homemade broth is a great option if you have it on hand. Just ensure to adjust the salt in the recipe accordingly, as broths can vary in saltiness.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This Zucchini Chicken dish is excellent for meal prep. You can cook it in advance and portion it out for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. The flavors meld beautifully when stored, making it even tastier on the second day.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).