This easy chicken breast dish is packed with tasty zucchini and squash. It’s simple to make and full of colorful veggies that make your plate pop!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts keep this dish lean and quick. You can substitute them with chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat, which tends to be juicier.
Zucchini and Yellow Squash: Both add great texture and color. If you can’t find them, use bell peppers or asparagus as a different veggie option. Just note that cooking times may vary.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps with cooking. You can replace it with avocado oil or even butter for a different taste. I prefer olive oil for its health benefits and flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a nice kick. If you’re short on time, garlic powder will work, but fresh adds the best flavor.
Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs makes it tasty. If you don’t have it, consider using basil, oregano, and thyme separately. Trust me, it works wonderfully!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Tender?
To keep your chicken moist, start by seasoning and searing it properly. Here’s how:
- Season both sides well. Don’t skip this step; it adds flavor.
- Use medium-high heat to get a nice golden brown crust. It seals in juices.
- Don’t overcook! Check your chicken with a meat thermometer; aim for 165°F.
When baking, keeping the chicken in the skillet with the veggies helps it stay juicy as the flavours meld together. Enjoy the tenderness of your chicken! 🍽️
Easy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Vegetables:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced into half-moons
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of half a lemon (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy dinner will take about 10 minutes for preparation and around 20 to 25 minutes to cook in the oven. So, in about 35 minutes, you will have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your dish cooks evenly when you’re ready to bake it.
2. Season the Chicken:
Grab the chicken breasts and season them generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning on both sides. This is where the flavor begins!
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear them for 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown. This adds great flavor! Once seared, carefully remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
4. Cook the Vegetables:
With the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic, sliced zucchini, and yellow squash. Sauté these for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies start to soften. They’ll soak up all that delicious flavor from the garlic and chicken!
5. Combine and Bake:
After the veggies have softened, return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the vegetables. Place the skillet in your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken breasts reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This is the perfect time to clean up your kitchen!
6. Final Touches:
Once done, take the skillet out of the oven. If you’d like, squeeze the juice of half a lemon on top for a fresh zing, and garnish with chopped parsley for a lovely presentation.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your chicken and veggies hot, and enjoy this nutritious meal! It’s delightful on its own or paired with rice, quinoa, or some delicious crusty bread. Yum!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash Dinner
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, but it’s important to thaw them completely before cooking! Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker option. Pat dry with paper towels before seasoning and cooking.
What If I Don’t Have Zucchini or Yellow Squash?
No problem! You can substitute with other vegetables such as bell peppers, asparagus, or even broccoli. Just be mindful of cooking times, as some vegetables may take longer or shorter to cook!
Can I Make This Meal Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and veggies in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply bake them in the oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You might want to add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist!
