Description
This One Pan Lemon Chicken and Zucchini recipe is a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner that combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with fresh zucchini slices, all infused with bright lemon and garlic. Cooked entirely on the stovetop in a single pan, it minimizes cleanup while delivering a healthy, satisfying meal packed with protein and vegetables.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Vegetables & Flavorings
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/4 cup low sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides evenly with salt, pepper, and dried oregano to infuse flavor.
- Heat the pan and sear chicken: Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and nearly cooked through.
- Add garlic and zucchini: Reduce heat to medium-low. Add minced garlic to the pan and sauté briefly about 30 seconds until fragrant, then add zucchini slices around the chicken.
- Deglaze with broth and lemon: Pour in the chicken broth along with lemon juice and zest. This will create a bright, flavorful sauce and help cook the zucchini tender.
- Simmer until done: Cover the pan and let everything cook together for another 5-7 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm for a wholesome meal.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked for safety.
- Substitute zucchini with yellow squash if preferred.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when adding garlic.
- This recipe is easily doubled for larger families or meal prep.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
