This Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini recipe is a perfect harmony of flavors that brings a fresh and vibrant twist to your regular chicken dinner. Combining the juicy and tender chicken with the crisp-tender zucchini, the recipe promises a delightful mix of textures. The addition of lemon and parmesan gives a tangy and cheesy dimension that enhances the overall taste, making this dish a crowd-pleaser.
Photos of Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini Recipe
All the ingredients used in this recipe are quite common and can be easily procured at any supermarket. However, do pay attention to the quality of the parmesan cheese. For the best results, go for freshly grated parmesan. Additionally, ensure that you're picking up fresh zucchini and yellow squash. They should be firm to touch and have a glossy skin.
Ingredients for Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini
Chicken breasts: The star of the dish, that provides a good amount of protein.
Olive oil: Used for sauteing the chicken, it adds a light, fruity note to the dish.
Butter: Adds a rich, creamy flavor to the chicken and vegetables.
Italian seasoning: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Garlic powder: Offers a mellow, sweet garlic flavor without the harsh bite of fresh garlic.
Onion powder: Adds a concentrated burst of onion flavor to the dish.
Lemon zest: Gives a strong lemon flavor that uplifts the entire dish.
Zucchini: Adds a mild flavor and a nice crunch to the dish.
Yellow squash: Similar to zucchini, it adds a mild flavor and a contrasting color.
Parmesan: Enhances the dish with its salty, nutty flavor.
Parsley: Freshens up the entire dish with its mild, slightly peppery flavor.
Lemon juice: Adds tanginess and keeps the chicken moist and tender.
One reader, Cordula Roberts says:
This skillet lemon parmesan chicken with zucchini recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the chicken is so tender. The zucchini and squash add a refreshing touch. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a burst of citrus and savory goodness. Highly recommended!
Cooking Techniques for Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini
How to cook the chicken: The chicken should be cooked for about 3 minutes on each side over medium-high heat until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
How to cook the zucchini and squash: The zucchini and squash should be cooked for about 4 minutes, tossing occasionally, until just tender.
How to season the chicken: Season the chicken with a fair amount of salt and pepper, 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon zest, then toss to coat.
How to tent the chicken: After cooking, tent the chicken with foil to keep it warm while preparing the zucchini and squash.
How to serve: Serve the dish warm, sprinkled with parmesan and parsley, and with additional parmesan and lemon zest on the side for garnish.
How To Make Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini
Tossed with zucchini, squash, and a dash of Italian seasoning, this one-pan lemon parmesan chicken is a dish everyone will enjoy.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1¼lbschicken breasts,boneless, skinless, diced into bite-size pieces
- 2tbspolive oil,divided
- 2tbspbutter,divided, or more olive oil
- salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 3tspItalian seasoning,divided
- 1tspgarlic powder,divided
- ½tsponion powder
- 1tsplemon zest,plus more for serving
- 10ozzucchini,2 small, sliced and halved if wider
- 10ozyellow squash,2 small, sliced and halved if wider
- ⅓cupparmesan,finely shredded, or more to taste
- 2tbspparsley,fresh, chopped
- 2tbsplemon juice,fresh
Instructions
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Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
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Dab the chicken dry with paper towels.
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Season the chicken with a fair amount of salt and pepper, 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon zest, then toss to coat.
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Melt the butter in a pan with olive oil, then add the chicken.
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Cook for 3 minutes, then flip and cook the opposite side for about 3 minutes longer until the chicken has cooked through. The center of larger pieces should register 165 degrees F.
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Transfer to a plate, then tent the chicken with a foil to keep warm.
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Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in the same skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add the zucchini and squash, then season with salt, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder.
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Cook for 4 minutes, tossing occasionally until just tender.
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Return the chicken to the pan with the zucchini and squash.
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Drizzle in the lemon juice, then toss to combine.
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Sprinkle with parmesan and parsley.
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Serve warm with more parmesan and lemon zest, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 454.03kcal
- Fat: 29.25g
- Saturated Fat: 10.50g
- Trans Fat: 0.38g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 12.79g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.89g
- Carbohydrates: 12.62g
- Fiber: 2.55g
- Sugar: 2.16g
- Protein: 35.89g
- Cholesterol: 114.41mg
- Sodium: 750.09mg
- Calcium: 223.07mg
- Potassium: 806.34mg
- Iron: 3.16mg
- Vitamin A: 137.78µg
- Vitamin C: 27.06mg
Expert Technique Tip for Perfect Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken
When cooking chicken in a skillet, it's important to not overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding can cause the chicken to steam rather than sear, preventing that desirable golden-brown crust from forming. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to ensure each piece has enough space. Additionally, using a combination of olive oil and butter not only prevents the butter from burning but also adds a rich flavor to the chicken.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Skillet Chicken Recipe
Prepare the ingredients: Gather and prepare all the ingredients and utensils needed for the recipe before starting. This will help streamline the cooking process and prevent any last-minute scrambling.
Use pre-cut chicken: Save time by using pre-cut chicken breasts or tenderloins, which eliminates the need for slicing and reduces prep time.
Multi-task: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the zucchini and squash to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.
Organize your workspace: Keep your cooking area organized and clean to avoid wasting time searching for tools or ingredients during the cooking process.
Invest in a good quality skillet: Using a high-quality non-stick skillet can help prevent sticking and make the cooking process more efficient.
Prep ahead: Consider marinating the chicken in the seasoning and lemon zest ahead of time to infuse the flavors and save time during the actual cooking process.
Batch cooking: Consider doubling the recipe and storing the extra portions for future meals, saving time on meal prep later.
Substitute Ingredients For Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini Recipe
chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breasts: Turkey breasts can be used as a lean and flavorful alternative to chicken breasts, providing a similar texture and taste in the dish.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable replacement for olive oil in this recipe.
butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee can be used as a substitute for butter, adding a rich, nutty flavor to the dish.
Italian seasoning - Substitute with herbs de Provence: Herbs de Provence blend can provide a similar aromatic and herbaceous flavor profile to Italian seasoning.
garlic powder - Substitute with minced garlic: Fresh minced garlic can be used as a substitute for garlic powder, adding a more intense and fresh garlic flavor to the dish.
onion powder - Substitute with finely chopped shallots: Finely chopped shallots can offer a milder and sweeter onion flavor compared to onion powder.
lemon zest - Substitute with lemon extract: Lemon extract can be used as a substitute for lemon zest, providing a concentrated citrus flavor to the dish.
zucchini - Substitute with yellow squash: Yellow squash can be used as a substitute for zucchini, offering a similar texture and mild flavor.
yellow squash - Substitute with butternut squash: Butternut squash can be used as a substitute for yellow squash, adding a slightly sweet and nutty flavor to the dish.
parmesan - Substitute with pecorino Romano: Pecorino Romano cheese can be used as a substitute for parmesan, offering a sharp and salty flavor to the dish.
parsley - Substitute with fresh basil: Fresh basil can provide a similar herbaceous and aromatic flavor to the dish, complementing the other ingredients.
lemon juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar can be used as a substitute for lemon juice, adding a tangy and acidic element to the dish.
Presentation Tips for Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini
Elevate the plating: Arrange the chicken and zucchini in a visually appealing manner, ensuring that each element is showcased beautifully on the plate.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped parsley over the dish to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Create an elegant drizzle of the lemon juice around the edge of the plate to add a sophisticated touch to the presentation.
Utilize negative space: Ensure that the plate is not overcrowded, allowing the dish to stand out and the colors to shine through.
Consider the plate shape and color: Choose a plate that complements the vibrant colors of the dish, enhancing the overall visual appeal.
Add a final sprinkle of parmesan: Just before serving, delicately dust the dish with a light sprinkle of parmesan to add a finishing touch of richness and flavor.
Balance the elements: Pay attention to the placement of each component, creating a harmonious balance of textures and flavors on the plate.
Highlight the lemon zest: Sprinkle a touch of lemon zest over the dish, drawing attention to the bright and zesty flavors of the dish.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Recipe
- Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and sautéing ingredients.
- Tongs: Used for flipping and turning the chicken and vegetables while cooking.
- Knife: Essential for cutting and slicing the chicken, zucchini, and squash.
- Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Measuring spoons: Used to accurately measure the quantities of spices and seasonings.
- Grater: For grating the parmesan cheese and lemon zest.
- Lemon squeezer: Used to extract juice from the lemon.
- Cooking thermometer: Essential for checking the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it is fully cooked.
- Non-stick skillet: A pan with a non-stick coating, ideal for cooking the chicken and vegetables without sticking.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini
- To store leftover skillet lemon parmesan chicken with zucchini, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to help maintain the dish's moisture. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until the chicken is warmed through and the zucchini is tender.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the skillet lemon parmesan chicken with zucchini. Place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 2-3 months for optimal quality.
- To reheat from frozen, thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little chicken broth or water if needed, until the chicken is heated through and the zucchini is tender.
- Note: The texture of the zucchini may change slightly after freezing and reheating, becoming softer than when freshly prepared. The flavor, however, should remain delicious.
How To Reheat Leftover Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini
To reheat leftover skillet lemon parmesan chicken with zucchini, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will ensure that the dish is heated through without drying out the chicken or overcooking the zucchini.
Place the leftover skillet lemon parmesan chicken with zucchini in an oven-safe dish. If the leftovers seem a bit dry, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to the dish to help maintain moisture during the reheating process.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil. This will help to trap the moisture and prevent the chicken and zucchini from drying out while they reheat.
Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and reheat for about 15-20 minutes. The exact time will depend on the amount of leftovers you're reheating and the depth of your dish.
After 15-20 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it's safe to eat.
If the chicken hasn't reached the desired temperature, cover the dish again and return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Once the chicken is heated through, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit, still covered, for about 5 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld and the dish to cool slightly before serving.
Before serving, give the dish a gentle stir to redistribute the lemon parmesan sauce. If the sauce seems a bit thick, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out.
Garnish the reheated skillet lemon parmesan chicken with zucchini with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve the dish hot and enjoy your delicious leftovers!
Interesting Fact About Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini
The skillet lemon parmesan chicken with zucchini recipe is a delicious and healthy dish that is packed with flavor and nutrients. It's a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while enjoying a satisfying meal. Zucchini and yellow squash are excellent sources of vitamins and minerals, and they add a delightful crunch to the dish. The combination of lemon, parmesan, and Italian seasoning creates a zesty and savory flavor profile that is sure to please your taste buds. This recipe is a perfect option for a quick and easy weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.
Budget-Friendly: Is This Skillet Chicken Recipe Economical?
The cost-effectiveness of this skillet lemon parmesan chicken with zucchini recipe is quite favorable. The main ingredients, chicken, zucchini, and parmesan, are relatively affordable and widely available. The addition of lemon and herbs enhances the flavor without significantly increasing the cost. This dish offers a balanced combination of protein and vegetables, making it a cost-effective and nutritious option for a household. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and delicious taste. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25, making it a budget-friendly choice.
Is This Skillet Chicken Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?
This skillet lemon parmesan chicken with zucchini recipe is a relatively healthy dish, offering a balance of lean protein, healthy fats, and nutrient-rich vegetables. The chicken provides a good source of protein, while the zucchini and yellow squash add fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The use of olive oil and butter in moderation contributes to the dish's flavor and provides healthy fats. The lemon juice and zest add a bright, fresh taste and offer a dose of vitamin C. The parmesan cheese and parsley provide additional flavor and nutrients.
However, there are a few ways to make this recipe even healthier:
- Reduce the amount of butter used or replace it with additional olive oil to lower the saturated fat content
- Use a low-sodium seasoning blend instead of salt to reduce the overall sodium content
- Increase the proportion of vegetables to chicken to boost the fiber and nutrient content of the dish
- Opt for whole wheat pasta or quinoa as a side dish to add more complex carbohydrates and fiber
- Garnish with additional fresh herbs, such as basil or oregano, to increase the antioxidant content and add more flavor without extra calories
Editor's Opinion on Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini
This skillet lemon parmesan chicken with zucchini recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The chicken is perfectly seasoned and cooked to juicy perfection, while the zucchini and squash add a refreshing and vibrant element to the dish. The addition of lemon juice and zest brightens the flavors, and the sprinkle of parmesan adds a savory richness. Overall, this dish is a wonderful balance of savory, citrusy, and fresh flavors that will surely impress your taste buds.
Enhance Your Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delightful dining experience, as it features chicken breasts cooked to perfection in a blend of olive oil and butter. The zucchini and yellow squash add a burst of freshness, while the lemon zest and lemon juice infuse a zesty tang. The combination of parmesan and italian seasoning creates a rich and savory flavor profile. With meticulous attention to detail and a harmonious blend of ingredients, this recipe promises to deliver a memorable and satisfying meal.
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