This Easy Asado Chicken is juicy and full of flavor, marinated with tasty spices. Paired with sautéed lemon zucchini, it makes a bright and fresh dinner that’s hard to resist!
Cooking this dish feels like a breeze! I love how the zingy lemon brings out the best in the zucchini. Honestly, if only veggies could always taste this good, I’d eat them every day! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like to use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness. If you prefer, boneless chicken breasts are a good substitute, just be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds depth to the chicken. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works, but the flavor won’t be as rich. Ground cumin and oregano are must-haves for that classic asado taste.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is key for a bright complement to the chicken. If zucchini isn’t available, yellow squash is a nice alternative. Both have a mild flavor that pairs well with lemon.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the zucchini. If you’re out of fresh lemons, a splash of vinegar can add some acidity as well, though the taste will be different.
How Can I Get My Chicken to Be Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating the chicken is crucial for flavors to penetrate and for it to stay juicy. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you can let it sit for a couple of hours, you’ll really enhance the flavor!
- Mix the marinade well, and make sure every piece of chicken is coated.
- Don’t rush cooking! Use a medium-high heat and allow about 5-7 minutes per side to get a nice sear.
- Use a meat thermometer! Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.
Easy Asado Chicken with Sautéed Lemon Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Asado Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp chili powder or cayenne (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
For the Sautéed Lemon Zucchini:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons or rounds
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced or minced
- Juice of half a lemon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 15-20 minutes to cook. If you have time to let the chicken marinate, plan for an additional 15-30 minutes or even up to 2 hours for extra flavor. Overall, you can enjoy this delicious meal in just under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, mix together the minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, optional chili powder, salt, black pepper, olive oil, and apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. Add the chicken to the bowl and toss everything to coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15-30 minutes, or if you have time, up to 2 hours in the fridge to really absorb those tasty flavors.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. If your chicken is lean, add a little extra oil to prevent sticking. Once hot, place the marinated chicken pieces into the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden-brown color. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm while you prepare the zucchini.
3. Sauté the Zucchini:
In the same skillet, add the olive oil or butter and lower the heat to medium. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant but not burned. Toss in the sliced zucchini, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 5-6 minutes. Cook until the zucchini is tender but still has a little bite to it, which is how you want it!
4. Finish the Zucchini:
Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the cooked zucchini and toss everything well to combine. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, so it’s just right for you.
5. Serve:
Now it’s time to plate up! Serve the juicy asado chicken alongside the sautéed lemon zucchini. If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh parsley or basil on top for a nice touch. Enjoy this easy, flavorful meal that’s sure to please!
Dig in and enjoy your delicious Easy Asado Chicken with Sautéed Lemon Zucchini!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless thighs are juicier, you can use boneless chicken breasts or even drumsticks. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as breasts may cook faster and drumsticks will take longer.
What If I Don’t Have Zucchini?
No worries! If zucchini isn’t on hand, other vegetables like yellow squash, bell peppers, or even broccoli can work well. Adjust the cooking time based on the veggie you choose to ensure they remain tender yet crisp.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet or microwave until heated through. For best results, avoid overcooking during reheating to keep the chicken juicy.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the marinated chicken in advance! Just store it in the fridge for up to 2 hours or overnight. You can also sauté the zucchini and serve it fresh immediately before eating for the best taste and texture.
