Easy Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini

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This Quick Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini is a tasty one-pan meal! With juicy chicken, fresh zucchini, and a zesty lemon flavor, dinner is a breeze.

I love how simple it is to whip up! Just toss everything in the skillet, and in no time, you have a colorful, delicious meal on your table. Trust me, you’ll want to make this often!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Zucchini and Yellow Squash: These veggies add freshness to the dish. If you can’t find them, feel free to swap in bell peppers or carrots for a different flavor and crunch.

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is easy to cook and absorbs flavors well. You can also use chicken thighs for a juicier option. For a vegetarian take, try chickpeas or tofu instead!

Olive Oil: This oil adds richness. If you’re out, any neutral oil like canola or avocado oil will work fine.

Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan brings creaminess. If dairy is a concern, nutritional yeast offers a cheesy taste without the dairy.

How Do I Cook Chicken Perfectly?

Cooking chicken so it’s juicy and tender is key. Here’s how to get it right:

  • Start with medium-high heat to sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes.
  • Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; this helps achieve a nice golden crust.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check that the inside reaches 165°F for safe eating.

Take your time with the cooking process to keep the chicken tender and flavorful!

What’s the Best Way to Sauté Vegetables?

Sautéing veggies like zucchini and squash enhances their flavor and texture. For great results:

  • Always use a hot pan with oil. This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
  • Cook the vegetables until they’re tender and slightly browned, which usually takes about 5 minutes.
  • Stir occasionally but allow them to sit for a bit to develop a nice golden color.

This method brings out the natural sweetness in the vegetables!

Easy Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini

Easy Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Dish:

  • 2 medium zucchinis (green), sliced into thick half-moons
  • 1 medium yellow squash, sliced into thick half-moons
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total! You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and approximately 20 minutes cooking. It’s a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for any weeknight!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces. Sprinkle them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken turns golden brown and is fully cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

2. Cook the Vegetables:

In the same skillet, pour in the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Then, add the sliced zucchini and yellow squash to the skillet. Stir occasionally as they cook for about 5 minutes, aiming for tender and slightly browned vegetables.

3. Add Flavor with Garlic:

Once the zucchini and squash are ready, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until the garlic is fragrant. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!

4. Combine Everything:

Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the fresh lemon juice over the mixture, making sure everything is coated. Stir to combine it all nicely.

5. Add the Finishing Touches:

Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken and veggies. Stir gently until the cheese starts to melt slightly, which adds a creamy texture to the dish.

6. Serve and Enjoy!

Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if you like. Serve warm and enjoy your quick and flavorful one-pan meal with family or friends!

Easy Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini

FAQ for Easy Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini

Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Dish?

Absolutely! Other great options include bell peppers, asparagus, or even cherry tomatoes. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you choose to ensure they cook evenly.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it doesn’t include any flour or gluten-based products. Just be sure to check labels on any packaged ingredients.

What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?

If you want a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Alternatively, you can use Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano as a substitute for Parmesan, keeping in mind that the flavor will vary slightly.

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