This lemon parmesan chicken is quick and tasty! You cook it all in one skillet, which means less mess and easy cleanup. Plus, the zucchini adds a nice touch of freshness.
I love how the lemon makes everything bright and flavorful. It’s perfect for those busy days when you want something yummy but simple. Just toss it all in, and you’re ready to eat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you’re looking for alternatives, try thighs for more flavor, or use tofu for a vegetarian option.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds great texture and nutrition. No zucchini? You can substitute with yellow squash or even bell peppers for a pop of color.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese brings a nice, salty kick. If you’re out of Parmesan, use Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free cheese for a similar flavor.
Chicken Broth: The broth adds depth to the sauce. You can use vegetable broth for a lighter taste or even water in a pinch.
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Chicken to Keep It Juicy?
Sautéing chicken can sometimes lead to dry meat, but there are a few tricks to keep it juicy and delicious. Here’s how you do it:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the oil. This gets a nice sear on the chicken.
- Cook the chicken without moving it for the first few minutes, allowing that golden crust to form.
- Check for doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F is safe), or slice it to see if the inside is still pink.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before cutting. This helps the juices redistribute.
Following these tips will ensure your chicken is not only flavorful but also tender and juicy!
Easy Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Vegetables:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes before you can dig into a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. This helps to build a flavorful base for your chicken!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook until they’re golden brown and completely cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the chicken. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Zucchini:
In the same skillet, add the sliced zucchini. Sauté for approximately 3-4 minutes until they are slightly softened. This will add the perfect texture and flavor to your meal!
4. Add Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
5. Create the Sauce:
Now, lower the heat to medium-low. Add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the skillet, scraping up any delicious browned bits left from the chicken. This adds great flavor to your sauce!
6. Incorporate Cheese and Butter:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and butter. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly while stirring, making it nice and creamy.
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon some of that delicious sauce and zucchini over the top, and heat for an additional 2-3 minutes. This will help meld all the flavors together!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is heated through, garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your easy, flavorful skillet lemon parmesan chicken with tender zucchini!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw it in the fridge overnight for the best results or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for a quicker option.
What Can I Substitute for Zucchini?
If you don’t have zucchini on hand, you can substitute it with yellow squash, bell peppers, or even asparagus. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, as some vegetables may cook faster than others.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat in a skillet, adding the zucchini fresh to keep its texture intact.
