Are you craving a mouthwatering meal that's both quick and incredibly delicious? Look no further than this Skillet Chicken and Zucchini recipe – the perfect solution for busy home cooks who refuse to compromise on flavor! In just 30 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-worthy dish that's packed with protein, loaded with vegetables, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Whether you're a cooking novice or a seasoned chef, this simple yet spectacular recipe will transform your weeknight dinner routine and leave everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the oil is shimmering and hot.
- Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 6-7 minutes on the first side until golden brown and a nice crust forms.
- Flip the chicken breasts and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate, tenting with aluminum foil to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced zucchini. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender and lightly caramelized.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling the pieces among the zucchini to reheat and combine flavors for 1-2 minutes.
- Serve hot, dividing the chicken and zucchini evenly among four plates. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
Tips
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden-brown exterior that seals in all the delicious flavors.
- Use a meat thermometer to check chicken doneness – 165°F (74°C) is the magic number for perfectly cooked, juicy chicken breasts.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet! This ensures proper browning and prevents steaming instead of searing.
- For extra flavor, try adding minced garlic or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes when sautéing the zucchini.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to help retain its juices and ensure maximum tenderness.
- For a low-carb option, serve directly from the skillet, or pair with cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
- Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can add a bright, fresh finish to this simple yet elegant dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 290kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 40g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 110mg
