This Easy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash is a simple, healthy meal. The chicken is tender, and the veggies add a colorful crunch. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner!
I love how you can whip this up in no time. Pair it with rice or just enjoy it on its own. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without any fuss! 🥦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish due to their quick cooking time. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey cutlets work well too.
Zucchini and Yellow Squash: These two add great flavor and color! If you can’t find them, try bell peppers or eggplant for a different taste.
Olive Oil: A staple for sautéing, but you can substitute it with avocado oil or even coconut oil for a different flavor.
Garlic: Minced garlic really elevates the dish. If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder can substitute, but use less as it’s more concentrated.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs is ideal here. Feel free to mix your favorite dried herbs like oregano, thyme, and basil if you don’t have a pre-mixed seasoning.
How Can I Ensure the Chicken is Juicy and Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but here are some simple steps to get it just right:
- Always start with dry chicken; this helps it brown nicely.
- Using medium heat allows the chicken to cook through without burning the outside.
- Cooking time will depend on the thickness of the breasts. Always cut into the thickest part to check that it’s no longer pink.
- Let the chicken rest a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping it moist when you slice it!
By following these tips, your chicken will be both flavorful and tender, making your meal enjoyable!
Easy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 medium yellow squash, sliced into half-moons
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes prepping the ingredients, and then 20 minutes cooking. It’s a quick and healthy meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. Get ready to cook!
2. Cooking the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want them to be golden brown and fully cooked through, with no pink inside. When done, take them out of the skillet and let them rest on a plate.
3. Sautéing the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant—be careful not to burn it!
4. Adding the Vegetables:
Now, add your sliced zucchini and yellow squash to the skillet. Season them with salt, pepper, the remaining Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Stir everything together!
5. Cooking the Vegetables:
Cook the veggies for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to be tender but still have a little crunch, which is just perfect!
6. Finishing Touches:
Once the vegetables are done, drizzle the fresh lemon juice over them and give everything a good stir to combine those delicious flavors.
7. Serving:
Slice the rested chicken breasts and arrange them over the sautéed zucchini and squash. If you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley or basil on top for a pop of color and flavor!
8. Enjoy Your Meal!
Serve immediately and enjoy this easy, healthy dish that’s full of flavor and color!
Happy cooking! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash
Can I Substitute the Chicken for Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use turkey cutlets or pork tenderloin for a different taste. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, depending on the thickness of the meat.
What if I Don’t Have Zucchini or Yellow Squash?
No problem! You can substitute with other vegetables like bell peppers, asparagus, or even broccoli. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on how quickly those veggies cook.
Can I Make This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare everything in advance and store it separately in the fridge. Just reheat the chicken and vegetables in a skillet over low heat when you’re ready to serve.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave or warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent drying out.
