This quick and tasty dinner features juicy chicken breasts paired with fresh zucchini and squash. It’s healthy and colorful, making your plate pop!
I love that this dish is ready in no time, perfect for busy nights. Plus, who could resist that lovely crunch from the veggies? Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their quick cooking time. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey breasts work great too! You can also go for chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat—they’re juicier!
Zucchini and Yellow Squash: Both add wonderful color and texture. If you can’t find yellow squash, feel free to swap it out for more zucchini or even bell peppers, asparagus, or green beans. The key is to use fresh veggies!
Olive Oil: This helps brown the chicken and cook the vegetables. You can use avocado oil or canola oil if you want a higher smoke point or prefer a different flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a fantastic aroma and taste. If you’re short on time, garlic powder can work, but I find fresh really makes the dish shine!
How Do You Sauté Vegetables Without Losing Their Crunch?
Sautéing is all about timing! You want that vibrant color and crispness, so here’s my approach:
- Heat your pan well first! It should be hot enough that the oil shimmers but doesn’t smoke.
- When adding veggies, keep the heat on medium-high. This helps to cook them quickly.
- Don’t crowd the pan; too many veggies at once can steam them instead. If you have more, sauté in batches.
- Stir occasionally but not constantly! Letting them sit briefly allows for browning, which adds flavor.
By following these tips, your zucchini and squash will turn tender yet still have that perfect bite. Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 medium yellow squash, sliced into half-moons
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes approximately 25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and around 15 minutes cooking everything to perfection. It’s quick, healthy, and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely in the pan. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Once done, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Add the Vegetables:
Next, add the sliced zucchini and yellow squash to the skillet. Sprinkle with the remaining Italian seasoning, plus a dash of salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Sauté the veggies for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender yet still have a nice crunch.
5. Reheat the Chicken:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet for 1-2 minutes to warm them through. Spoon some of the delicious vegetable mixture over the top to soak up those flavors.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the chicken breasts and top them with the sautéed zucchini and squash. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color, and add lemon wedges on the side if you want an extra zesty touch. Enjoy your healthy, flavorful, and easy dinner!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash Dinner
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw them first! Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat them dry before seasoning for the best results.
What Can I Substitute for Zucchini and Yellow Squash?
If you can’t find zucchini or yellow squash, try using bell peppers, asparagus, or even broccoli! The key is to choose vegetables that cook similarly, ensuring they stay vibrant and slightly crisp.
Can I Make This Meal Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the chicken and vegetables separately ahead of time. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat everything in a skillet or the microwave until warmed through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them gently in a skillet over low heat or use the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. Enjoy your meal again!
