This Easy Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken is a little burst of sunshine on your plate, paired perfectly with fresh zucchini. It’s tasty and quick to make!
You’ll love how the lemon and parmesan create a zesty sauce that’s hard to resist. I always keep extra zucchini on hand—it’s such a great side and super healthy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here, but feel free to use thighs for a juicier option. If you’re vegetarian, consider using chickpeas or tofu for a protein boost!
Zucchini and Yellow Squash: These two veggies complement each other well, but you can substitute with bell peppers, asparagus, or spinach based on your preference or what’s in season.
Olive Oil: This adds richness, but you can swap it with avocado oil or melted butter if needed. Just keep in mind that butter will give a slightly different flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: For cheese lovers, freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese product.
How Do I Cook Chicken So It’s Juicy and Tender?
The key to perfectly cooked chicken is not to overcook it! Here’s how:
- Start with a hot skillet to get a nice sear on the chicken; this helps lock in moisture.
- Season the chicken well—this enhances its flavor.
- Cook on medium-high heat for about 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally until it’s golden and reaches 165°F (75°C) internally.
Letting it rest for a minute off the heat before adding it back to the pan can help keep it juicy!
How to Make Easy Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skillet Dish:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds or half-moons
- 1 medium yellow squash, sliced into rounds or half-moons
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This quick and easy dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 15 minutes to cook, making it a total of around 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a speedy weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Olive Oil:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough that the chicken will sizzle as soon as it hits the pan, creating a nice golden crust.
2. Season and Cook the Chicken:
Take your bite-sized chicken pieces and season them with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet once the oil is hot. Cook it for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the sliced zucchini and yellow squash. Season them with a bit of salt, pepper, and the rest of the Italian seasoning. Sauté these veggies for about 4-5 minutes until they become tender and start to brown.
4. Add Garlic and Combine:
Now, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until you smell that delicious garlic aroma. This is when your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
5. Bring it All Together:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest. The lemon adds a fresh, bright flavor that really ties everything together.
6. Finish with Parmesan:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and veggies. Stir gently until the cheese melts and coats everything beautifully. This gives a creamy finish without needing to add cream!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh chopped parsley to add a nice color contrast and freshness. Serve the dish warm as a light and wholesome meal that’s sure to please!
This Easy Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini is not only quick to make but is also bursting with flavor and nutrition—a perfect combination for any dinner!
FAQ for Easy Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While zucchini and yellow squash are delicious, you can switch them out for bell peppers, asparagus, or even broccoli. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as different veggies may require adjustments!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until warmed through.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and veggies ahead of time! Just keep them separate in the fridge and sauté them together when you’re ready to eat. The dish tastes just as good when made fresh!
What Can I Serve This Dish With?
This skillet chicken pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or pasta to soak up all the delicious lemon-parmesan sauce. For a lighter meal, consider serving it over a bed of greens or alongside a simple salad.
