There is something truly delightful about the Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe that makes it an absolute favorite for weeknight dinners or anytime you crave a comforting yet fresh meal. This dish brings together tender chicken pieces perfectly browned and tossed with vibrant zucchini and yellow squash, all brightened by the zesty lemon and rich Parmesan cheese. It’s a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that feels both indulgent and light, making it a recipe you’ll want to keep close in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this skillet meal is simple yet essential, contributing to a perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color. From fresh vegetables to aromatic seasonings, every component plays a role in making this dish shine.
- 1 1/4 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite size pieces: Tender chicken pieces cook quickly and soak up all the flavors beautifully.
- 2 Tbsp olive oil, divided: Adds a fruity richness and helps achieve that golden sear on the chicken and vegetables.
- 2 Tbsp butter, divided: Boosts the savory depth and gives a silky finish to the sautéed veggies.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance every other ingredient without overwhelming them.
- 3 tsp Italian seasoning, divided: A fragrant herb mix that adds complexity and warmth to the chicken and veggies.
- 1 tsp garlic powder, divided: Brings a subtle but deeply savory aroma to the skillet.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: Rounds out the seasoning with a gentle sweetness, balancing the garlic perfectly.
- 1 tsp lemon zest, plus more for serving: Infuses a bright citrus note that livens every bite and makes the dish fresh.
- 10 oz. (2 small) zucchini, sliced and halved if wider: This green veggie offers a tender bite and a mild flavor that complements the chicken well.
- 10 oz. (2 small) yellow squash, sliced and halved if wider: Adds vibrant color and a slightly sweet, buttery taste to the mix.
- 1/3 cup finely shredded parmesan, or more to taste: The star dairy component that melts into a savory, nutty finish.
- 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley: Offers a pop of green and a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the entire dish.
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice: Adds a sharp, tangy punch that ties together the flavors beautifully.
How to Make Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken to Perfection
Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. While it’s warming up, season the diced chicken generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, Italian seasoning, half the garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon zest. This blend ensures every bite is packed with flavor. Cook the chicken pieces in the hot skillet, stirring occasionally, until they develop a golden crust and are cooked through. This should take about 6 to 8 minutes, giving you perfectly tender and juicy bites that are the heart of the dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Zucchini and Squash
Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside for a moment. Add the remaining olive oil and butter to the same skillet, allowing the butter to melt and mingle with the oil for a luscious base. Toss in the sliced zucchini and yellow squash, sprinkle with the remaining Italian seasoning and garlic powder, and season lightly with salt and pepper. Sauté the vegetables until they are tender but still have a slight bite, which usually takes about 5 minutes. This step develops the natural sweetness of the squash and keeps the veggies vibrant and fresh.
Step 3: Combine Chicken, Vegetables, and Flavors
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sautéed zucchini and squash. Drizzle in the fresh lemon juice and sprinkle the finely shredded Parmesan and chopped parsley over everything. Now gently toss all ingredients together, allowing the cheese to melt just enough to coat the chicken and veggies in a savory, creamy embrace. This step brings all the flavors to life by uniting them in one sizzling skillet moment.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve Hot
Once everything is mixed and heated through, finish by garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese and a bit more lemon zest for that final fresh kick. Serve the dish hot right from the skillet and get ready to savor the incredible combination of tangy, savory, and fresh flavors that this recipe delivers with ease.
How to Serve Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra flair, fresh lemon zest and a sprinkle of chopped parsley make wonderful garnishes that add brightness and color. A light drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil right before serving also enhances the dish’s texture and aroma wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This skillet recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. A fluffy bed of rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a crusty piece of bread to soak up any extra sauce can transform the meal into a full feast. For a lighter option, serve alongside a mixed green salad tossed in a simple vinaigrette.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the chicken and vegetables over warm polenta or atop a spiral of cooked pasta for a more hearty approach. If entertaining, present it in individual shallow bowls with colorful garnishes to highlight the vibrancy of the zucchini and squash, making your plate as beautiful as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after resting, making reheated portions just as satisfying.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to prepare it in advance. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. It keeps nicely for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave in short bursts to avoid drying out the chicken. Adding a splash of water or broth when reheating can help maintain moisture and keep the vegetables tender.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini and squash?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add bell peppers, mushrooms, or green beans, depending on what you have on hand. Just adjust cooking times to ensure they’re tender yet not overcooked.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s an excellent option for meal prep since it stores well and reheats nicely. You can prepare the full recipe in advance and enjoy it throughout the week.
What can I use if I don’t have fresh lemon juice?
If fresh lemons aren’t available, bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, though fresh really does elevate the dish’s flavor. A small splash will still brighten up the meal.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, skip the Parmesan and use extra olive oil instead of butter. Adding nutritional yeast can offer a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How spicy is the dish?
This recipe is mild and packed with herbaceous and citrus notes rather than heat. If you want a bit of spice, you can sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes during cooking.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason why the Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe has won a special place in so many kitchens. It’s quick, versatile, and an absolute joy to eat, delivering a vibrant meal with minimal fuss. I encourage you to give it a try soon — your dinner table will thank you for this delightful, flavorful dish that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
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 and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender bite-sized chicken pieces are seasoned with Italian herbs and lemon zest, then sautéed to perfection alongside fresh zucchini and yellow squash. Finished with a bright splash of lemon juice, fragrant parsley, and a generous sprinkle of parmesan cheese, this dish delivers a delightful balance of savory and citrusy flavors 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, 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
Cooking Fats
- 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 cheese, or more to taste
- 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Season and Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. In a bowl, season the diced chicken breasts with salt, pepper, 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of lemon zest. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside, about 6-8 minutes.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the sliced zucchini and yellow squash along with the remaining 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine Chicken and Vegetables: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, sprinkle with the shredded parmesan, and add the chopped fresh parsley. Toss everything gently to combine and allow the cheese to melt slightly, about 2 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle additional parmesan cheese and lemon zest over the top for extra flavor. Serve the dish hot straight from the skillet, enjoying the vibrant flavors and bright citrus accents.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts if preferred; cooking time may vary slightly.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and lemon zest, to balance brightness.
- Serve with crusty bread or over pasta or rice for a heartier meal.
