Baked Chicken with Zucchini & Cherry Tomatoes

Baked Chicken with Zucchini & Cherry Tomatoes

Ingredients

• 4–6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

• 2 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds

• 1½–2 cups cherry tomatoes

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Italian blend cheese

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional but recommended)

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp paprika

• ½ tsp salt (or to taste)

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Season the chicken
   In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
   Rub this mixture all over the chicken.

3. Assemble the dish

   • Lightly grease a baking dish.

   • Arrange chicken in the center.

   • Scatter zucchini slices and cherry tomatoes around and between the chicken.

   • Drizzle a little extra olive oil over the vegetables and lightly season them.

4. Bake (first stage)
   Cover loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

5. Add cheese
   Remove foil, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the chicken and vegetables.

6. Bake uncovered
   Return to oven and bake another 15–20 minutes, until:

   • Chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally

   • Cheese is melted and lightly golden

   • Vegetables are tender

7. Finish & serve
   Garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.