This easy chicken breast dish is packed with flavor and goodness! Juicy chicken is cooked along with tender zucchini and squash, making it a colorful and healthy meal.
You can whip this up in no time, and it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. I love how the veggies soak up all the tasty chicken juices—yum! 🥒🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is perfect here for ease and quick cooking. If you’re looking for an alternative, try using turkey cutlets or tofu for a vegetarian option. Both will work well with the seasoning.
Zucchini and Yellow Squash: These two veggies not only add color but also a lovely texture. You can swap out zucchini for other veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms if that’s what you have on hand!
Olive Oil: Olive oil boosts flavor and moisture. If you’re out, avocado oil or even butter works well too. Just keep an eye on the heat if using butter to avoid burning.
Garlic: Fresh garlic delivers great taste! You can use garlic powder in a pinch, about 1/4 teaspoon per clove. If you prefer things milder, omit it altogether.
How Do I Cook the Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking chicken breast so it’s juicy and tender can be tricky. Here are some tips:
- Be sure to let your chicken breasts sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking. This leads to more even cooking.
- Always preheat your skillet for a few minutes before adding oil. You want the oil to shimmer—this helps to sear the chicken.
- Don’t crowd the pan. If your skillet isn’t big enough, cook in batches. This ensures they brown instead of steam.
- Use a meat thermometer! Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be safe.
Follow these tips, and your chicken will come out perfectly every time!
Easy Chicken Breast With Zucchini and Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 medium yellow squash, sliced into rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes of cooking time, so you can enjoy a healthy, delicious meal in about half an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps them get that lovely brown color when cooked. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and the dried Italian herbs.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked and have a nice golden brown color. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic and Veggies:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. When it’s hot, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Then, add the sliced zucchini and yellow squash to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’d like a little heat. Stir occasionally and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the veggies are tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Combine Chicken and Veggies:
Now, return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet with the vegetables. Let everything heat together for another 2 minutes, so the chicken warms up and the flavors blend beautifully.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Take the skillet off the heat and sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or basil on top for a touch of color and freshness. Serve your delicious chicken and vegetables immediately, with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing if you like!
Enjoy your simple, healthy, and flavorful chicken with zucchini and squash! Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Breast With Zucchini and Squash
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just as well and add a bit more flavor due to their higher fat content. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few minutes longer to fully cook through.
What Can I Substitute for Zucchini and Yellow Squash?
If you don’t have zucchini or yellow squash on hand, you can easily substitute with bell peppers, asparagus, or even broccoli. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the veggies are tender but still vibrant and not overcooked.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium-low heat until warmed through. Adding a splash of chicken broth or a bit more olive oil can help revive the dish if it seems dry.
Can I Add More Veggies?
Yes, feel free to get creative! Carrots, bell peppers, or even spinach would be great additions. Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on the vegetables you choose, so everything remains perfectly cooked!