This Easy Asado Chicken is packed with flavor and juicy goodness. The lemon zucchini sauté adds a bright, fresh touch, making it a perfect side that’s quick to whip up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juicy texture. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken breasts, but they may need a bit more cooking time to stay moist.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a wonderful smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika will work, but you might miss out on that depth. Adding a pinch of cayenne can give a bit of heat!
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is key for the sauté. If zucchini is out of season, consider using yellow squash or even bell peppers for a different twist.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice gives a zesty kick. If you don’t have limes, lemons are a great substitute and pair well with the chicken’s seasoning.
How Do I Get the Chicken Just Right?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but with these steps, you’ll nail it! First, marinate the chicken for flavor—20 minutes is good, but up to 2 hours is better for tender results.
- Cook the chicken on medium-high heat. This helps get a nice sear.
- Use a meat thermometer to check if it’s done. 165°F (75°C) is the magic number!
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This keeps the juices inside!
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked, flavorful chicken every time!
Easy Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Asado Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
For the Lemon Zucchini Sauté:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 20 minutes to cook. For the most flavor, you should marinate the chicken for at least 20 minutes, but you can let it sit for up to 2 hours if you have the time. In total, you’re looking at around 30-40 minutes before you get to enjoy a delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a bowl, mix together the minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, pepper, olive oil, lime juice, and red wine vinegar. This will be your tasty asado marinade that brings out the flavors in the chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and make sure they are well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let it marinate for at least 20 minutes at room temperature, or place it in the fridge for a deeper flavor for up to 2 hours.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken, cooking for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want the chicken to be cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and a nice char on the outside. Remove from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes.
4. Prepare the Lemon Zucchini Sauté:
While the chicken is cooking, take another skillet and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant but not burnt.
5. Sauté the Zucchini:
Add the sliced zucchinis to the skillet. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender but still crisp. You want to keep that nice texture!
6. Add Lemon Flavor:
Once the zucchini is cooked, stir in the lemon juice and zest, cooking for an additional minute. This adds a fresh, vibrant flavor to your sauté.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the rested chicken and serve it alongside the lemon zucchini sauté. If you want to add a touch of freshness, sprinkle some chopped cilantro on the chicken and fresh parsley or basil on the zucchini.
And there you have it—a simple, delicious, and colorful meal that’s easy to make and sure to impress! Enjoy your flavorful dinner!
FAQ for Easy Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can definitely use boneless, skinless chicken breasts! Just be aware that they may require a slightly longer cooking time to ensure they remain juicy and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Other Vegetables Can I Use for the Sauté?
If zucchini isn’t available, feel free to substitute with yellow squash, bell peppers, or even broccoli! Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure your chosen veggies are tender yet still crisp.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavors even more. Just make sure to keep it covered in the refrigerator for food safety.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken and sautéed zucchini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a microwave or warm on a skillet over low heat until heated through, adding a splash of oil or water if needed to prevent drying out.
With these tips, you’re all set for a delicious meal! Enjoy cooking!
