Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe
If you’re searching for a dish that’s bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors yet comes together in just about 30 minutes, this Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender bite-sized chicken pieces seasoned perfectly and paired with tender, lightly sautéed zucchini and yellow squash make every bite truly comforting and bright. The zing of lemon combined with the savory richness of Parmesan cheese creates a meal that’s both simple and impressive — a total winner for weeknights or casual get-togethers alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of straightforward ingredients, this recipe really shines by letting each element do its magic. From the protein-packed chicken breast to the fresh zucchini and squash adding vibrant color and texture, every item has a purposeful role that elevates the final dish.
- Chicken breasts (1 1/4 lbs, diced): Tender and juicy, perfect for quick cooking and soaking up flavors.
- Olive oil (2 Tbsp, divided): Adds a fruity richness and helps achieve a golden sear on both chicken and veggies.
- Butter (2 Tbsp, divided): Brings a creamy depth and smooth finish, beautifully complementing the lemon and Parmesan.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential basics to balance and enhance every ingredient’s natural taste.
- Italian seasoning (3 tsp, divided): A fragrant blend of herbs that adds classic Mediterranean flair.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp, divided): Offers a mellow garlic punch without overpowering the delicate veggies.
- Onion powder (1/2 tsp): Provides subtle savory undertones, rounding out the seasoning mix.
- Lemon zest (1 tsp, plus more for serving): Infuses bright citrus notes that lift the entire dish.
- Zucchini (10 oz, sliced): Fresh and tender, giving a slight crunch and vibrant green color.
- Yellow squash (10 oz, sliced): Adds mild sweetness and a lovely golden hue for visual appeal.
- Parmesan cheese (1/3 cup finely shredded): Adds nutty, salty richness that ties everything together.
- Fresh parsley (2 Tbsp, chopped): Brings a burst of freshness and prettiness to the finished plate.
- Fresh lemon juice (2 Tbsp): Provides tangy brightness that perfectly balances the buttery Parmesan.
How to Make Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Begin by cutting your boneless skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces — this ensures quick, even cooking and maximum flavor absorption. Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon zest, creating an aromatic base that will bring each bite to life.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken to Perfection
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes to develop a golden crust. Flip and continue cooking until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside—you’re off to a flavorful start!
Step 3: Cook the Zucchini and Yellow Squash
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and butter. Toss in the sliced zucchini and yellow squash with the rest of the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and a pinch of lemon zest. Cook gently over medium heat until the veggies are tender but still retain a slight bite, which lends a lovely texture contrast to the dish.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Vegetables
Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the fresh lemon juice and sprinkle the finely shredded Parmesan and chopped parsley over everything. Toss gently but thoroughly to combine all the flavors and melt the cheese slightly into the warm ingredients — this step is where the magic truly comes together.
Step 5: Serve Hot and Garnish
Before serving, give the skillet one last toss and add extra Parmesan and a little more lemon zest on top for an irresistible finish. Now your Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe is ready to enjoy—simple, fresh, and utterly delicious!
How to Serve Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe
Garnishes
To amp up the visual appeal and flavor, sprinkle extra grated Parmesan cheese and a bit more fresh lemon zest just before serving. A few extra sprigs of chopped fresh parsley also add that beautiful, herbaceous pop that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light, fluffy side like garlic mashed potatoes or lemon-infused rice to soak up every last bit of the flavorful juices. A crisp green salad or steamed asparagus would also provide a refreshing counterpoint to the warm, cheesy skillet meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe over a bed of creamy polenta or alongside crusty bread for dipping. You could even stuff the mixture into warm pita pockets or enjoy it as a protein-packed salad topping for an easy, portable lunch option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and keep them refrigerated for up to 3 days. The lemon and Parmesan flavors tend to mellow a bit, so you might want to add a fresh squeeze of lemon or extra cheese when reheating.
Freezing
If you’d like to keep this delicious dish longer, freeze it in a suitable container for up to 2 months. When freezing, avoid adding the fresh herbs and lemon zest — add those fresh when reheating to maintain their brightness.
Reheating
Reheat gently over medium-low heat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to warm evenly. Add a splash of water or chicken broth if it seems dry. Fresh lemon juice and Parmesan sprinkled on top afterward will revive the bright and creamy flavors.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini and squash?
Absolutely! Vegetables like bell peppers, asparagus, or green beans would also work well and complement the lemon and Parmesan flavors beautifully.
Is it okay to use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?
While fresh finely shredded Parmesan is ideal for its superior flavor and meltability, pre-grated cheese can be a convenient substitute. Just be aware that texture and flavor might vary slightly.
Can I make this dish gluten free?
This recipe is naturally gluten free as long as you ensure your seasonings and Parmesan cheese do not contain any gluten additives.
What type of chicken breast works best?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are preferred here for quick cooking and ease of cutting into bite-sized pieces. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier result, just adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
Chicken should be cooked until no longer pink inside and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The pieces will be firm and opaque, perfect for combining with the veggies.
Final Thoughts
This Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe is such a joy to make and even more delightful to eat. It balances zesty, cheesy, and savory notes perfectly with fresh vegetables, making it a fantastic meal to brighten up your dinner routine. Trust me, once you try this one, it will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen too!
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Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash is a quick, flavorful one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender diced chicken breasts are seasoned with Italian herbs and lemon zest, then cooked alongside fresh zucchini and yellow squash. Finished with a sprinkle of parmesan, fresh parsley, and a splash of lemon juice, this dish delivers a bright, savory, and comforting dinner in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 1 1/4 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite size pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 3 tsp Italian seasoning, divided
- 1 tsp garlic powder, divided
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp lemon zest, plus more for serving
- 2 Tbsp olive oil, divided
- 2 Tbsp butter, divided (or more olive oil)
Vegetables:
- 10 oz. (2 small) zucchini, sliced and halved if wider
- 10 oz. (2 small) yellow squash, sliced and halved if wider
Finishing Touches:
- 1/3 cup finely shredded parmesan, or more to taste
- 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Dice the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season them generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, 2 tsp Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp lemon zest, and onion powder. This will infuse the chicken with vibrant, zesty Italian flavors.
- Cook Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook thoroughly until all sides are browned and the chicken is cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. When melted and hot, add the sliced zucchini and yellow squash. Season with the remaining 1 tsp Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Sauté the vegetables until tender and slightly golden, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Add 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, 1/3 cup finely shredded parmesan cheese, and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley. Toss all the ingredients together gently to combine and warm through so the flavors meld.
- Serve: Transfer the skillet contents to serving plates or serve directly from the pan. Garnish with an extra sprinkle of parmesan cheese and additional lemon zest to brighten the dish. Serve immediately and enjoy this fresh, cheesy, lemon-infused chicken skillet meal hot.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, omit butter and parmesan or substitute with vegan alternatives.
- Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder if preferred, finely minced and added during cooking.
- Adjust Italian seasoning amount to your taste preference for stronger herb flavor.
- Ensure zucchini and squash are sliced evenly for uniform cooking.
- You can substitute chicken breasts with boneless thighs for a juicier result.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or over cooked rice or pasta for a heartier meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
