Chicken and Veggie Bake Recipe for Easy Healthy Dinners

If you’re looking for a hearty, wholesome meal that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor, look no further than this Chicken and Veggie Bake recipe. It combines tender chicken breasts with a vibrant medley of fresh vegetables, all baked to perfection in a single dish.

Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or prepping a comforting weekend dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. The best part?

It’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize the vegetables and seasonings to suit your taste or whatever you have in the fridge.

This bake is not only delicious but also a balanced meal rich in protein, vitamins, and fiber. The aroma of garlic, herbs, and roasting vegetables fills your kitchen, making it a delightful sensory experience from start to finish.

Plus, cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks together in one pan. If you love simple recipes that deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort, keep reading to discover how to make this fantastic chicken and veggie bake your new go-to meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken and Veggie Bake recipe is a game-changer for busy cooks and flavor lovers alike. Here’s why:

• One-pan convenience: Minimal prep and cleanup make this dish perfect for hectic days.
• Healthy and balanced: Enjoy lean protein from chicken and a colorful variety of nutrient-packed vegetables.
• Customizable: Use whatever veggies you like or have on hand, making it flexible for all seasons.
• Deliciously flavorful: A blend of garlic, herbs, and olive oil creates a savory, aromatic experience.
• Family-friendly: It’s a comforting meal that both kids and adults will enjoy, perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
• 2 bell peppers (any color), chopped
• 1 large red onion, cut into wedges
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
• Juice of half a lemon

Equipment

• Large baking dish (approximately 9×13 inches)
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Aluminum foil (optional, for covering)
• Tongs or spatula

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting the chicken and vegetables evenly, giving everything a nice golden finish.
2. Prepare the chicken and vegetables: Rinse and pat dry the chicken breasts. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced zucchinis, chopped bell peppers, red onion wedges, and cherry tomatoes.
3. Make the seasoning mixture: Add the minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the vegetables. Toss everything together until well-coated.
4. Season the chicken breasts: Lightly rub each breast with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. For extra flavor, you can sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika or dried herbs on the chicken as well.
5. Arrange the ingredients in the baking dish: Place the chicken breasts in the center of the dish. Spread the seasoned vegetables evenly around the chicken, making sure they’re in a single layer for even roasting.
6. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the vegetables are tender and caramelized on the edges.
7. Finishing touches: Remove the dish from the oven. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the chicken and veggies for a fresh, zesty flavor. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
8. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious, nutritious one-pan chicken and veggie bake!

Tips & Variations

For juicier chicken, let the breasts rest for 5 minutes after baking before slicing.

• Vegetable swaps: Feel free to add or substitute other veggies like carrots, broccoli florets, or sweet potatoes. Just adjust the roasting time accordingly.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of chilli powder for a smoky heat.
• Herb variations: Fresh rosemary or basil can be used instead of dried thyme and oregano for a different flavor profile.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a few tablespoons of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream before baking for a richer dish.
• Meal prep friendly: This bake reheats well and can be portioned for lunches throughout the week.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This chicken and veggie bake is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a few side options if you want to round out your dinner:

• Serve over steamed brown rice or quinoa for added fiber and texture.
• A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette complements the warm baked flavors perfectly.
• Try crusty whole-grain bread or garlic bread for soaking up the flavorful juices.
• Roasted or mashed potatoes also make a comforting side dish.

For more healthy and easy dinner ideas, check out our Cheap Vegetarian Recipes For Families Everyone Will Love or explore 15 Minutes Veg Dinner Recipes for Quick Healthy Meals.

Conclusion

This Chicken and Veggie Bake recipe is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a nourishing and flavorful meal. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or anytime you crave comfort food without the fuss.

The combination of juicy chicken and roasted vegetables, enhanced by herbs and garlic, makes every bite satisfying and wholesome.

Remember, the beauty of this dish lies in its flexibility – swap in your favorite vegetables or try different herbs and spices to keep it fresh and exciting. If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love our collection of Chicken and Roasted Veg Recipes for Easy Healthy Meals which offer even more ideas for delicious, nutritious dinners.

Happy cooking!

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