This simple chicken dish is a winner! Juicy chicken breasts are cooked with fresh zucchini and squash, making it healthy and colorful. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
I love how the veggies soak up the chicken’s flavor—so tasty! 🍽️ You can whip this up in no time, and it pairs well with rice or bread for a complete meal. Enjoy the yumminess!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean and easy to cook. If you’re looking for a more flavorful option, you could use thigh fillets instead, as they stay juicy and tender.
Zucchini and Yellow Squash: These veggies add color and nutrition. If you can’t find yellow squash, feel free to use bell peppers or eggplant for a different texture and flavor.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is great for sautéing due to its flavor and health benefits. You can substitute with avocado oil or even butter if you prefer a richer taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a wonderful aroma. In a pinch, garlic powder works too—about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove.
Chicken Broth: It adds moisture and depth. If you don’t have broth, water works fine, but you might lose a bit of flavor.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but here’s how to get it just right!
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry; this helps with browning.
- Season well with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides.
- Don’t rush it! Medium heat is key, allowing the chicken to cook evenly without burning.
- Use a meat thermometer. Aim for 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s perfectly cooked through.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing, so it stays juicy. This simple step helps keep all those delicious juices in.
Easy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the 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 and basil)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (optional, for extra moisture)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cook time, making it a quick 25-minute meal. Perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps them brown nicely. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning to add flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully lay in the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked (make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F/75°C). When done, take them out of the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
4. Add the Veggies:
Now, add the sliced zucchini and yellow squash to the skillet. Sprinkle with the remaining Italian seasoning and season with more salt and pepper. Sauté the veggies for about 5-7 minutes or until they are tender but still a bit crisp. This keeps them delicious!
5. Create a Light Sauce (Optional):
If you’d like, add the chicken broth to the skillet. This will help deglaze the pan by lifting the tasty bits stuck at the bottom. Stir and let it cook for an additional 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
6. Combine and Heat:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them among the sautĂ©ed veggies. Cook everything together for another minute to heat it through and combine the flavors.
7. Serve:
Once everything is cooked and heated, remove the skillet from the heat. If you want, garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your delightful, healthy meal!
Enjoy your healthy, flavorful meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute the Chicken with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use turkey breast or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. If you opt for chickpeas, just add them when you sauté the vegetables since they are already cooked!
What if I Don’t Have Zucchini or Yellow Squash?
No worries! You can swap in other vegetables like bell peppers, asparagus, or broccoli. Just adjust the cooking time as needed—a little longer for heartier veggies like broccoli!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the vegetables and season the chicken breasts a day before. Just store them separately in the fridge, and when you’re ready to cook, follow the instructions as usual for a quick weeknight dinner.
