This easy chicken breast dish with zucchini and squash is a winner! Juicy chicken pairs perfectly with tender veggies for a healthy and colorful meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish because they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for more flavor and moisture. They might take a bit longer to cook, but they’re super tasty!
Zucchini and Yellow Squash: These veggies are fresh and light, giving the dish a nice crunch. If you can’t find them, consider using bell peppers, asparagus, or even eggplant as substitutes. They will still pair well with the chicken.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the dish. If you’re looking for something lighter, you can use avocado oil or even a little chicken broth instead. Just keep in mind that it may change the flavor slightly.
Seasonings: Dried Italian seasoning adds a nice flavor kick. If you’re out, try using a blend of herbs like thyme, rosemary, or even taco seasoning for a twist! Seasoning is key, so don’t skip this step.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken to just the right temperature is important to keep it tender. Here’s how you can do that:
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 165°F (74°C).
- Don’t overcook! Once it’s done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps to retain its juices.
- If you’re using thicker chicken breasts, you might want to pound them to an even thickness before cooking. This helps them cook uniformly.
By following these tips, your chicken will be flavorful and juicy every time!
How to Make Easy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 medium yellow squash, sliced into half-moons
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional)
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 10 minutes of prep time, plus about 30 minutes of cooking time in the oven. So in total, you’ll need around 40 minutes to make this healthy and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to cook the chicken properly while keeping it juicy.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a baking dish, lay out the chicken breasts. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over them, and sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. This seasoning will give the chicken great flavor!
3. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a large bowl, combine the sliced zucchini and yellow squash with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic, the rest of the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat, and season with salt and pepper. Toss everything together to make sure the veggies are well coated.
4. Combine and Bake:
Next, arrange the seasoned vegetables around the chicken breasts in the baking dish. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You want the chicken to be fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the veggies to be nice and tender.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the dish from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes—this helps keep the chicken juicy. If you wish, you can garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Don’t forget to serve it with lemon wedges for a zesty touch!
Enjoy your healthy, flavorful chicken dish!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s essential to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for quicker results. Be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed—frozen chicken may take a bit longer to reach the safe internal temperature.
What Other Vegetables Can I Substitute?
Absolutely! If you don’t have zucchini or yellow squash on hand, you can swap them for bell peppers, asparagus, or even broccoli. Just remember to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and vegetables in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. You can also add a splash of broth or water to keep things moist!
Can I Add More Flavor to the Chicken?
Certainly! You can marinate the chicken in your favorite marinade for a few hours before cooking, or simply add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary directly on top before baking for added flavor. A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving also brightens up the dish!
