Easy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try chicken thighs. They’ll add more flavor and moisture!

Zucchini and Squash: Both vegetables are great for adding color and nutrition. If you can’t find yellow squash, you can use more zucchini or even bell peppers for a different taste and texture.

Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil gives a lovely flavor, but feel free to swap it for canola or avocado oil if you prefer. Both work well with high heat.

Garlic: Fresh garlic adds great zest. If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder will work too! Use about 1/4 teaspoon as a substitute.

How Do You Sear Chicken for Maximum Flavor?

Searing chicken breast is a critical step to lock in its juices and form a delicious crust. Here’s how to do it right:

• Make sure your skillet is hot. You want the oil to shimmer before adding the chicken.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan. This ensures each piece gets an even sear without steaming.
• Let it sear without moving it for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown, then flip and repeat. You can tell it’s ready when it releases easily from the pan.

This method creates a wonderful flavor base that will enhance the whole dish! Enjoy your easy chicken breast with zucchini and squash, and feel free to customize it as you like!

Easy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
• 1 medium yellow squash, sliced into half-moons
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, and thyme)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a mild kick)
• Juice of half a lemon
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to cook, making a total time of about 35 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick dinner during a busy week!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready when you’re finished searing the chicken.

2. Prepare the Chicken:

Take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better! Season both sides with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. Make sure to rub it in for maximum flavor!

3. Sear the Chicken:

In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts carefully. Sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. This step locks in the juices, making your chicken tender. Once done, remove them from the pan and set aside.

4. Sauté the Vegetables:

In the same pan, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant—this makes the kitchen smell fantastic! Then, add the sliced zucchini and squash along with the remaining Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and cook for about 3-4 minutes, just until they start to soften.

5. Combine and Bake:

Now, nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the pan on top of the cooked vegetables. This will allow the chicken to absorb all the delicious flavors. Transfer the entire pan to your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the vegetables are tender.

6. Finish and Serve:

Once it’s done baking, carefully remove the pan from the oven. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken and veggies for a bright finish. If you like, sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top for a fresh touch. Serve hot and enjoy this healthy, delicious meal!

This easy recipe is a delightful way to enjoy chicken and fresh vegetables. The combination is not just tasty but also a great way to bring some color and nutrients to your dinner table! Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s important to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to transfer them to the refrigerator overnight or submerge them in a sealed plastic bag in cold water for a quicker thawing process.

What if I Don’t Have Yellow Squash? Can I Substitute It?

Absolutely! If you don’t have yellow squash, you can use more zucchini or substitute with bell peppers, asparagus, or even broccoli. They’ll all add a delicious twist to the dish.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water to keep the veggies from drying out.

Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free! Just be sure to avoid any dairy-based seasonings or toppings and enjoy the fresh flavors of the chicken and vegetables as they are!