This Easy Asado Chicken is packed with tasty spices and zesty flavor. Paired with bright lemon zucchini sauté, it’s a meal that sings with freshness. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I use boneless, skinless thighs for their juicy texture. Breasts work too, but they can dry out if overcooked. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could try turkey tenderloins instead.
Spices: The smoked paprika adds a nice depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika will do, though the taste will differ. You can also swap cumin for coriander for a different flavor profile!
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is key, but if it’s out of season, yellow squash works well too. You can also try bell peppers or asparagus for a colorful touch in the sauté.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Grilled Chicken?
Getting the chicken just right can be tricky, but a few simple steps help ensure it’s juicy and flavorful.
- Marinade for at least 30 minutes; longer is better for flavor.
- Make sure your grill is hot before adding the chicken. This helps get nice grill marks and prevents sticking.
- Check for doneness after 5-7 minutes per side. Look for a nice golden color and use a meat thermometer if you have one—165°F is the magic number!
Easy Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Asado Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional for mild heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lime or lemon
For the Lemon Zucchini Sauté:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes for cooking, totaling about 30 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weekday dinner yet delicious enough for a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, pepper, and lime (or lemon) juice. This will be the flavorful marinade for the chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken to the marinade, making sure it’s well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. If you have extra time, letting it sit for up to 2 hours will enhance the flavor even more!
3. Grill the Chicken:
Preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated chicken on it. Grill for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest while you prepare the zucchini.
4. Sauté the Zucchini:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until fragrant (but don’t let it burn!). Then, add the sliced zucchini to the pan, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the zucchini is tender but still a bit crisp.
5. Add Lemon Flavor:
Stir in the lemon juice and zest, and give it all a good toss to combine. Remove the skillet from heat once combined.
6. Serve Up:
On a plate, arrange the grilled chicken next to the lemon zucchini sauté. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and added flavor. Enjoy your bright and flavorful meal!
FAQ for Easy Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just adjust your cooking time slightly, as bone-in pieces will take a bit longer to cook through. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and juiciness.
What Can I Substitute for Zucchini?
If you’re not a fan of zucchini, you have plenty of options! Yellow squash, bell peppers, or even asparagus can be delicious substitutes. Just sauté them until tender for a similar texture.
Is This Recipe Freezable?
Yes! You can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before grilling. The sautéed zucchini is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it in the fridge for up to 2 days.
How Do I Make This Meal Lower in Calories?
For a lighter option, consider using skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs, reduce the amount of olive oil, and load up on more veggies in the sauté. You could also skip the oil in cooking the zucchini and use a non-stick pan instead!
