Baked Chicken Breast with Zucchini

Indulge in the delightful flavors of **Baked Chicken Breast with Zucchini**, a simple yet delicious dish that's perfect for any meal. This recipe combines tender marinated chicken with the subtle sweetness of zucchini, creating a satisfying and healthy plate. The chicken breast is infused with a Mediterranean herb blend, adding depth and aroma to the dish. Zucchini slices are quickly sautéed to retain their crispness and sprinkled with freshly grated nutmeg for a hint of warmth. This meal is ideal for those looking for a nutritious option without sacrificing flavor. It's quick to prepare and guarantees to impress your family or friends at dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that appeals to different tastes. Perfect for a casual weekday dinner or an elegant weekend meal. Served with a splash of lemon juice, this dish offers a refreshing finish.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

Chicken Breasts: 2 medium-sized
Zucchini: 2, medium
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons

Spices and Sauces

Dried Mediterranean Herb Mix: 1 tablespoon
Nutmeg: grated, 1/4 teaspoon
Lemon Juice: from 1 lemon
Fats: for greasing the pan

Preparation Time

Total Time: Approximately 45 minutes, including both preparation and cooking.

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the lemon juice and dried Mediterranean herb mix. Stir well to create a uniform marinade.
Marinate the Chicken: Rub the marinade over the chicken breasts, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and allow to marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (356°F) to have it ready for baking.
Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with some of the olive oil or your preferred fat.
Bake the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish. Put in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
Slice the Zucchini: While the chicken is baking, wash and slice the zucchinis into evenly thick rounds.
Sauté the Zucchini: Heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the zucchini slices in a single layer, working in batches if necessary.
Cook Until Tender: Quickly sauté the zucchini slices for about 3 minutes on each side until they start to brown slightly.
Season the Zucchini: Sprinkle the sautéed zucchini with the grated nutmeg for extra flavor.
Serve: Arrange the chicken breasts on a serving plate along with the sautéed zucchini.
Garnish: Drizzle some fresh lemon juice over the dish before serving for a zesty touch.

Tips:

For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
Substitute zucchini with squash for a different texture.
Add chili flakes for a hint of spice if desired.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Protein: 30g
Fats: 15g
Carbohydrates: 12g

Variations

Replace chicken breasts with tofu for a vegetarian version.
Use different herbs like oregano or thyme for a varied taste profile.
Add a sprinkle of Parmesan for a cheesy finish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of quinoa or couscous for a complete meal.
Pair with a crisp white wine to complement the lemon and herb flavors.

Best Places

The Herb Kitchen - Known for innovative use of herbs in every dish. Location: 123 Culinary St, New York City, USA.
Zucchini's - A quaint spot specializing in zucchini-based dishes. Location: 78 Greenway Ave, London, UK.
Mediterranean Delight - Offers a diverse menu of Mediterranean cuisine. Location: 56 Ocean Blvd, Sydney, Australia.
Nutmeg Nook - Famous for its nutmeg-infused recipes. Location: 22 Spice Lane, Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Olive Grove Bistro - A bistro with an extensive use of olive oil. Location: 99 Olive Dr, Athens, Greece.
Lemon & Herb Café - Popular for its refreshing lemon-herb combinations. Location: 34 Citrus St, Cape Town, South Africa.
Filet & Zucchini - Known for premium chicken and zucchini meals. Location: 88 Grill Rd, Toronto, Canada.
Garden Bistro - Offers plant-based meals in a garden setting. Location: 41 Blossom Ave, Wellington, New Zealand.
Zesty Delights - Perfect for lovers of zesty flavors. Location: 57 Lime Rd, Dublin, Ireland.
Healthy Bites - Promotes nutritious dining. Location: 67 Wellness Way, Tokyo, Japan.