If you are craving a dish that feels like sunshine on a plate, you have got to try this Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe. It’s a delightful medley of juicy, tender chicken pieces tossed with fresh summer squash and zucchini, all brightened with zesty lemon and a generous sprinkle of savory Parmesan. The combination of flavors and textures is nothing short of irresistible, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting to know these simple, fresh ingredients is the key to the magic of this recipe. Each one plays an essential role, from the succulent chicken to the vibrant veggies and the luscious mix of herbs and cheese that bring everything together harmoniously.
- 1 1/4 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced: Bite-sized pieces ensure quick, even cooking and maximize flavor absorption.
- 2 Tbsp olive oil, divided: Adds rich flavor and helps create a perfect sear on the chicken and veggies.
- 2 Tbsp butter, divided: Adds creaminess and subtle sweetness; you can also use extra olive oil if preferred.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for enhancing all the fresh flavors.
- 3 tsp Italian seasoning, divided: Brings a fragrant, herbal touch that complements the lemon beautifully.
- 1 tsp garlic powder, divided: Delivers a mellow, warm garlic undertone without overpowering the dish.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: Adds depth and a subtle savory layer.
- 1 tsp lemon zest, plus more for serving: Brings fresh citrus notes that brighten every bite.
- 10 oz zucchini (2 small), sliced and halved if wide: Adds a tender, slightly crisp veggie element that soaks up the sauce.
- 10 oz yellow squash (2 small), sliced and halved if wide: Offers sweetness and a beautiful pop of golden color.
- 1/3 cup finely shredded Parmesan, or more to taste: The star cheese that gives this dish its irresistible savory richness.
- 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous lift to finish.
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice: The final burst of citrus that ties all the flavors together perfectly.
How to Make Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken to Golden Perfection
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. While the oil warms, season the diced chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, half of the Italian seasoning, half of the garlic powder, onion powder, and the lemon zest. This seasoning combo promises every bite will be bursting with flavor. Add the chicken to the hot skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until each piece is nicely browned and cooked through. This step is crucial because a perfectly seared chicken forms the delicious base for the entire dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Zucchini and Squash Until Tender
Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a plate and set it aside for just a moment. Add the remaining olive oil and butter to the same skillet, letting the butter melt and mingle with the oil. Toss in the sliced zucchini and yellow squash along with the remaining Italian seasoning and garlic powder. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 5 to 7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender but still hold a slight crunch—it’s this balance that keeps the dish lively and fresh.
Step 3: Bring It All Together with Cheese and Lemon
Now it’s time for a reunion party in the skillet. Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the tender squash and zucchini. Pour in the fresh lemon juice and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley over the top. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to coat all the ingredients in the fragrant lemony, cheesy goodness. The heat from the skillet will melt the Parmesan just enough to create a luscious coating that hugs every piece.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve Hot
To finish, add a little extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of lemon zest on top for added brightness and a gorgeous presentation. Serve your Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe piping hot straight from the pan—there’s something so satisfying about digging into a warm skillet brimming with fresh, vibrant flavors.
How to Serve Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe
Garnishes
Adding simple garnishes can elevate the meal and make it extra special. Fresh parsley sprinkled on top gives it a pop of color and a fresh herbal note, while an additional grating of Parmesan cheese adds a luxurious touch. A thin lemon wheel or extra lemon zest scattered over the dish brings that zesty appeal front and center.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderfully versatile and pairs beautifully with many sides. Consider serving it alongside a light arugula salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette to echo the citrus theme. Creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy quinoa can soak up any extra sauce, while crusty bread is perfect for mopping up every last bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For an Instagram-worthy presentation, try serving the dish in colorful cast iron skillets right at the table for a rustic effect. You can also plate the vegetables as a bed and fan the chicken pieces on top for a restaurant-style look. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprig of fresh herbs adds that professional final flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers—which is rare!—store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for a tasty next-day meal.
Freezing
This Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe can be frozen, but the texture of zucchini and squash may soften slightly upon thawing. For best results, freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the vegetables and reheat gently to preserve the texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the dish in a skillet over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Adding a splash of olive oil or lemon juice can help refresh the flavors. Avoid the microwave if you can—it tends to affect the texture negatively.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of Parmesan?
Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a unique salty nuttiness, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor or even Asiago. Just keep in mind they melt differently, so adjust accordingly.
What can I do if I don’t like zucchini or yellow squash?
No worries! This recipe is super adaptable. Try swapping in bell peppers, asparagus, or even green beans. All will soak up the lemon and seasoning beautifully.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, it works great for meal prepping as it reheats nicely. Just be mindful that the zucchini and squash might release some water over time, so slightly undercook them in the initial preparation if planning to prep ahead.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Definitely! Just omit the butter and Parmesan, or replace Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast to retain that cheesy flavor.
How can I make this dish more protein-packed?
Feel free to add cooked chickpeas or white beans to the skillet for extra protein and fiber. Or serve it alongside a grain like quinoa or farro to bulk it up and keep you full longer.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly heartwarming about a dish that comes together quickly yet tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. The Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe manages to do just that, balancing bright citrus, rich Parmesan, and fresh veggies with tender chicken in a way that feels like a hug on a plate. Give it a try soon—you might just find your new favorite weeknight meal!
Print
Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- 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 bite-sized chicken pieces are seasoned with Italian herbs and garlic, then sautéed to perfection. Fresh zucchini and yellow squash add vibrant color and a mild sweetness, all tossed together with zesty lemon juice, savory parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley for a bright and satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 1/4 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite size pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 tsp Italian seasoning, divided
- 1 tsp garlic powder, divided
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp lemon zest, plus more for serving
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 10 oz (2 small) zucchini, sliced and halved if wider
- 10 oz (2 small) yellow squash, sliced and halved if wider
Fats and Finishing
- 2 Tbsp olive oil, divided
- 2 Tbsp butter, divided (or more olive oil)
- 1/3 cup finely shredded parmesan, or more to taste
- 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Season and cook chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While heating, season the diced chicken with salt, black pepper, 1 1/2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon zest. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes.
- Sauté the vegetables: Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. Add the sliced zucchini and yellow squash to the skillet. Season with the remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. Cook the vegetables, stirring occasionally, until tender and slightly caramelized, about 6-7 minutes.
- Combine chicken with vegetables: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sautéed zucchini and squash. Add the lemon juice, shredded parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to combine all the flavors and to allow the cheese to melt slightly.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle additional parmesan cheese and lemon zest over the top for a bright finishing touch. Serve the dish hot directly from the skillet and enjoy a delicious, lemony, cheesy chicken and vegetable meal.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with extra olive oil and omit the parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier texture.
- Adjust the seasoning amounts to your taste preference, especially the lemon zest and cheese for varying levels of tanginess and saltiness.
- This recipe pairs well with crusty bread or a side of cooked rice or quinoa for a more substantial meal.
- Fresh parsley can be replaced with basil or cilantro for a different herbal note.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken to ensure proper browning.
