This Easy Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini is deliciously bright and full of flavor! Juicy chicken, tender zucchini, and a hint of lemon make this a winner for any dinner.
I love how quick this dish comes together in one pan. Plus, it feels fancy without making a mess! Serve it with some rice, and you’re all set for a tasty meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts make this dish easy to cook. If you prefer, chicken thighs can be a flavorful substitute. They add a bit of richness and stay moist better.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is essential for this recipe, but you can swap in yellow squash if you need to. Both work well cooked quickly in a skillet.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the dish. If you’re out of lemons, a bit of bottled lemon juice or even a splash of vinegar can work, though fresh is best.
Parmesan Cheese: I love using freshly grated Parmesan for its great flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor, but the texture will differ.
Butter: The butter adds richness, but you can use more olive oil if you want to keep it dairy-free.
How Do I Cook Chicken Perfectly in a Skillet?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken can be tricky, but with a few simple steps, it’s totally manageable!
- Season your chicken well. Don’t be shy with salt and pepper, as it enhances the flavor.
- Wait for the skillet to heat up before adding the chicken. This helps achieve a nice golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If you have more chicken, cook it in batches to maintain even cooking.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F/74°C to be fully cooked.
By following these tips, you’ll have juicy and flavorful chicken every time! Enjoy your meal prep!
Easy Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a meal ready in about 30-35 minutes! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick meal anytime.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper. This will really enhance the flavor!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic and Zucchini:
In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Then, add the sliced zucchini to the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender but still has a bit of crispness to it.
4. Add Lemon and Season:
Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice, plus the red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. This will give the dish a fresh and zesty flavor!
5. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over both the chicken and zucchini. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for another 2 minutes to let the cheese melt a bit.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once the cheese has slightly melted, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if you’d like, and serve this flavorful lemon Parmesan chicken with zucchini hot! It pairs beautifully over cooked rice or with some crusty bread on the side.
Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work great in this recipe. They tend to be more flavorful and remain moist during cooking. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed, as thighs may take a bit longer than breasts.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! This dish is versatile. You can add bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach for extra color and nutrients. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time so all veggies are tender but not overcooked.
How Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
If you want to keep it dairy-free, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast can also be sprinkled on for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored 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, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep it moist.
