This easy chicken breast dish features tender chicken cooked with fresh zucchini and squash. It’s colorful, healthy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
You can whip this up in no time, and the veggies add a nice crunch. I love serving it with a bit of rice for a complete meal—so tasty and satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep the dish lean and easy. If you’re looking for fewer carbs, try chicken thighs for more flavor, or use firm tofu for a vegetarian version.
Zucchini & Squash: These veggies add color and nutrition. Don’t have them? Bell peppers or asparagus work great too, or mix in whatever is fresh in your fridge!
Olive Oil: This is a heart-healthy fat. You can use avocado oil or any neutral oil if you prefer something different. Butter also adds a rich flavor if you like!
Parmesan Cheese: It adds a savory bite, but you can skip it if you’re avoiding dairy. Nutritional yeast or a sprinkle of almonds can add a nice flavor in its place!
How Can I Cook Chicken Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but here’s a simple way to ensure it’s juicy and cooked just right:
- First, season your chicken with salt, pepper, and herbs before cooking. This adds great flavor!
- Heat your skillet to medium so that the chicken sears nicely. Don’t rush this part!
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side without moving it too much, until you see a nice golden crust.
- Finally, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps keep all the juices inside.
Easy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 medium yellow squash, sliced into half-moons
Seasoning and Extras:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes to cook, totaling about 25-30 minutes, making it a quick and easy meal option 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 sear better! Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. This will give the chicken a nice flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and no longer pink in the center. When done, remove them from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic and Veggies:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant—be careful not to burn it! Next, add the zucchini and yellow squash to the pan. Sprinkle them with the remaining Italian seasoning, and add some salt and pepper. Cook while stirring occasionally for 5-7 minutes until the veggies are tender but still slightly crisp.
4. Combine Chicken and Veggies:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. If you’re using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the top of the chicken and cover the skillet. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts and the chicken gets warm again.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your dish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious chicken breast with zucchini and squash!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in any of your favorite veggies. Bell peppers, asparagus, or even broccoli would work well. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure everything is perfectly tender.
How Can I Make This Recipe Low-Carb?
To keep this dish low-carb, stick with the zucchini and squash as your only veggies. You can serve it without any rice or pasta, or pair it with a side salad for a light meal!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can cook the chicken and vegetables in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
How Do I Know When the Chicken is Cooked Through?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have one, you can also cut the thickest part of the chicken to ensure it’s no longer pink inside.
