If you’re looking for a quick and tasty meal, this Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini is just the ticket! I remember the first time I made this dish for my family; my son, Jake, couldn't stop raving about it. He said it was like a sunny day on a plate, and I couldn’t agree more. This recipe combines juicy chicken and fresh zucchini in one skillet, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love It
- It's a one-skillet wonder, which means less cleanup for you.
- The lemon adds a refreshing zing that brightens up the dish.
- Zucchini is a great way to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing.
- It's healthy, delicious, and ready in under 30 minutes!
Pure Comfort
This dish is pure comfort food, balancing the savory flavors of chicken and Parmesan with the lightness of zucchini. Plus, it’s a healthy dinner for two that feels indulgent without the guilt.
What You Need
- 1 lb 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Pound them to an even thickness for even cooking.
- 1 1 medium zucchini – Slice into half-moons.
- 1 tbsp 1 tablespoon olive oil – Can substitute with avocado oil.
- 2 2 cloves garlic – Minced for maximum flavor.
- 1 1 lemon – Juice and zest for brightness.
- 2 oz 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated is best.
- to taste Salt and pepper – Feel free to add your favorite herbs.
Time to Cook
Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 15 minutes | Total: 25 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: You can prep the chicken and zucchini ahead of time.
Steps to Make It
- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step enhances the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the zucchini. Slice it into half-moons, making sure they are uniform for even cooking.
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and zucchini, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until the zucchini is tender and slightly caramelized.
- Next, squeeze the juice of the lemon over the zucchini and add the lemon zest. Stir well to combine, letting the flavors meld together for about a minute.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top. Cover the skillet for a minute to allow the cheese to melt slightly.
- Finally, serve the chicken and zucchini warm, garnished with additional lemon zest if desired. It’s a delightful dish that looks as good as it tastes!
Make It Perfect
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice for 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic.
- You can easily swap zucchini for yellow squash or any other seasonal veggies you have.
Mix It Up
- Add cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and sweetness.
- Substitute the chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.
- For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with chickpeas.
Perfect Partners
- Serve with a side of quinoa or brown rice for a complete meal.
- A simple green salad pairs perfectly with this dish.
- Crusty bread is great for soaking up the lemony goodness.
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FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and zucchini in advance. Just cook them when you’re ready to eat.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this dish?
It’s best to freeze the chicken separately, as the zucchini may become mushy when thawed.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
You can use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
What if I don’t have a skillet?
You can use any large frying pan or even a grill pan if that’s what you have on hand.
Conclusion
This Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini is not just an easy light chicken recipe; it’s a delightful meal that brings the family together. With its vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. So, gather your loved ones and enjoy this all-in-one dinner recipe!
Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini
Equipment
- Skillet
Ingredients
Chicken Breast
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts Pound them to an even thickness for even cooking.
- 1 medium zucchini Slice into half-moons.
- 1 tbsp olive oil Can substitute with avocado oil.
- 2 cloves garlic Minced for maximum flavor.
- 1 lemon Juice and zest for brightness.
- 2 oz grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated is best.
- to taste Salt and pepper Feel free to add your favorite herbs.
Instructions
- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step enhances the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the zucchini. Slice it into half-moons, making sure they are uniform for even cooking.
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and zucchini, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until the zucchini is tender and slightly caramelized.
- Next, squeeze the juice of the lemon over the zucchini and add the lemon zest. Stir well to combine, letting the flavors meld together for about a minute.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top. Cover the skillet for a minute to allow the cheese to melt slightly.
- Finally, serve the chicken and zucchini warm, garnished with additional lemon zest if desired. It’s a delightful dish that looks as good as it tastes!