This Easy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash is a quick and healthy dish! The tender chicken cooks perfectly next to the sweet squash and crunchy zucchini, making it a colorful plate.
I love how this recipe just uses one pan! It means less cleaning for me, and I can enjoy my meal faster. Plus, it’s great for busy weeknights when I need something yummy and simple!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for their quick cooking time. If you want a change, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier option or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Zucchini and Yellow Squash: Both add color and texture to the dish. If you can’t find yellow squash, you can simply use extra zucchini or substitute with other veggies like bell peppers or asparagus.
Olive Oil: This oil is great for sautéing, but if you’re looking for something different, avocado oil or even melted butter works well too. I prefer the flavor of olive oil in this dish!
Italian Seasoning: If you have other herbs like oregano, basil, or fresh herbs, feel free to use those instead. Dried herbs can be more intense, so adjust the amount to your taste!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be tricky, but here’s how to get it just right! Start by patting your chicken dry. This helps it brown nicely. Season generously since this step adds flavor. Cook over medium heat, making sure not to rush it.
- Cook each side for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest after cooking; this keeps it juicy!
Enjoy this dish by serving it with lemon wedges for added brightness!
Easy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 medium yellow squash, sliced into half-moons
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep the ingredients and another 20 minutes to cook everything together. It’s a quick and healthy meal solution!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step helps them to get a nice golden color when cooked. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and half of your Italian seasoning. This is where the flavor begins!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through (check for an internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant but careful not to burn it!
4. Cook the Vegetables:
Next, add the sliced zucchini and yellow squash to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, the remaining Italian seasoning, and the optional red pepper flakes for a little kick. Sauté everything together for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender, yet still slightly crisp.
5. Combine Chicken and Vegetables:
Now it’s time to return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Place them on top of the sautéed veggies, allowing it to warm through for a couple more minutes. This path combines the delicious flavors!
6. Serve it Up:
Remove the skillet from heat. If you wish, garnish with fresh parsley or basil to add a pop of color and flavor. Serve your dish with lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over right before eating for an added zing!
Enjoy your healthy and delicious Easy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is very flexible. You can substitute zucchini and yellow squash with other vegetables like bell peppers, asparagus, or broccoli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if needed to ensure everything is cooked through.
What Can I Serve with This Chicken Dish?
This dish pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or pasta. If you’re looking for a lighter option, serve it alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. You can also enjoy it as is for a low-carb meal!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or warm it gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist while reheating.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Before Cooking?
Yes, marinating the chicken is a great idea! You can use a simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) to enhance the flavor before cooking.