One-Pan Chicken, Zucchini and Tomato Bake Recipe

When you want a meal that’s simple, flavorful, and requires minimal cleanup, this one-pan baked chicken with zucchini and tomatoes fits the bill perfectly. Inspired by @melissagorga, this recipe combines juicy chicken breasts with fresh vegetables, all roasted together to create a dish that’s both healthy and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal, this recipe delivers a delicious balance of textures and flavors with very little effort.

One-pan baked chicken with zucchini and tomatoes, golden and juicy

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering fresh ingredients is the first step to making this dish shine. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 medium yellow onion, sliced

• 1 medium zucchini, sliced

• 1 to 1.5 pounds chicken breast, halved or cut into cubes

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided

• ¼ cup white wine or chicken broth

• 1 teaspoon adobo seasoning or a mix of salt, pepper, and garlic powder

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

  
  

These ingredients come together to create a meal that’s both colorful and packed with nutrients. The zucchini and tomatoes roast down to a tender, slightly caramelized texture, while the chicken stays juicy and flavorful.

Preparing the Vegetables

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This temperature is ideal for roasting vegetables and cooking chicken evenly.

In a 9x13-inch Pyrex or similar baking dish, toss the sliced onions and zucchini with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the adobo seasoning. Spread the vegetables out in an even layer. This base will roast nicely and provide a flavorful bed for the chicken.

Preparing the Chicken

Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because it helps the chicken brown better in the oven, creating a more appealing texture and flavor.

Place the chicken on top of the vegetables. Drizzle with another tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with more adobo seasoning. This layering allows the chicken to absorb some of the vegetable flavors while roasting.

Adding Tomatoes and Liquid

Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes over the chicken. These will roast down and add bursts of sweetness and acidity to the dish.

Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the white wine or chicken broth over everything. The liquid helps keep the chicken moist and adds a subtle depth of flavor. Add a little more seasoning if you like, but be careful not to overdo it.

Baking Covered

Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake at 400°F for 25 to 30 minutes. This step allows the chicken to cook through gently while the vegetables soften.

Check that the chicken is almost cooked through and the vegetables are tender before moving on to the next step.

Broiling for a Golden Finish

Remove the foil and switch your oven to low broil. Bake uncovered for 20 to 30 minutes, watching carefully. This step gives the chicken a golden-brown crust and slightly chars the cherry tomatoes, enhancing their flavor.

Keep an eye on the dish to prevent burning, but don’t be afraid of a little char—it adds a delicious smoky note.

Adding Cheese (Optional)

If you want to add a cheesy touch, sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the chicken and tomatoes. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for 5 more minutes, until the cheese melts and bubbles.

This step is optional but highly recommended for those who enjoy a creamy, cheesy finish.

Serving Your One-Pan Delight

Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking. This resting time helps the juices redistribute in the chicken, keeping it moist and tender.

Serve your baked chicken with zucchini and tomatoes straight from the pan. The combination of juicy chicken, tender vegetables, and melted cheese (if added) makes for a comforting and balanced meal.

This recipe is a great example of how simple ingredients and straightforward cooking methods can create a delicious, wholesome dinner. It’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen or dealing with multiple pots and pans.