This Easy Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini is a delicious one-pan dish! Juicy chicken meets fresh zucchini, all brought together with zesty lemon and cheesy parmesan.
I love how quick this meal is to whip up, making dinner stress-free. Plus, the flavors are like a happy dance in your mouth—perfect for busy weeknights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a great choice here for their tenderness. If you want to switch things up, try thighs for more flavor, or even use tofu for a vegetarian option!
Zucchini and Yellow Squash: These summer squashes are perfect for this dish. You can substitute with bell peppers or asparagus if zucchini is not available. They all add a nice crunch!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil gives richness. If you’re out, vegetable oil or avocado oil works well too. I sometimes use butter for a different flavor twist!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is a must for the best flavor! If you’re avoiding dairy, try nutritional yeast as a tasty substitute, or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
How Do You Get the Chicken Just Right?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but with these tips, you’ll nail it every time! Start with a preheated skillet, as this helps sear your chicken quickly without drying it out.
- Cut your chicken into small, even pieces to ensure they cook uniformly.
- Season generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning before cooking for better flavor.
- Cook in a single layer to avoid steaming the chicken, which will keep it juicy and golden.
- Use a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (75°C) to be safe and cooked through.
Easy Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Veggies:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds or half-moons
- 1 medium yellow squash, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a blend of oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, making it quick and easy! In total, you can have this delicious meal ready in just about 25 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken so it gets a nice sear!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Season them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked, about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Add the Vegetables:
Add the sliced zucchini and yellow squash to the skillet. Season with a little salt and pepper. Cook these veggies until they become tender and slightly browned, around 5 to 6 minutes. Stir occasionally to cook them evenly.
5. Combine Chicken and Lemon:
Return the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Mix in the lemon juice and lemon zest, making sure everything is combined well for that zesty flavor!
6. Melt the Cheese:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken and zucchini mixture. Stir gently to help the cheese melt and coat everything beautifully.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve it warm straight from the skillet.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of cooked rice, pasta, or a simple green salad. Enjoy your delicious and healthy meal!
FAQ for Easy Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini
Can I Use Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! While zucchini and yellow squash are lovely, feel free to swap them for bell peppers, asparagus, or even broccoli if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time slightly based on the vegetables you choose!
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, you could use Pecorino Romano for a slightly sharper flavor. For a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast, which adds a nice cheesy flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prep the chicken and veggies ahead of time! Cut and marinate the chicken, and slice the vegetables a few hours or the night before. Just cook everything right before you’re ready to serve for the best freshness!
