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Garlic Butter Chicken and Zucchini Skillet Recipe


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  • Author: Emma Parker
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Description

This Garlic Butter Chicken and Zucchini Skillet Recipe features juicy chicken, tender zucchini, and a rich garlic butter sauce—all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights, low-carb meals, or healthy meal prep.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces – Lean, tender, and cooks quickly.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps create a golden crust.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds mild smoky flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Provides aromatic herbs.
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder – Enhances the savory taste.
  • ½ teaspoon salt – Brings out the flavors.
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds gentle spice.

For the Garlic Butter Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – Creates a rich, silky sauce.
  • 5 garlic cloves, minced – Adds bold garlic flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – Brightens the dish.
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest – Adds fresh citrus aroma.
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley – Adds color and freshness.

For the Vegetables

  • 2 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons – Tender and mild in flavor.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (optional) – Adds sweetness and color.
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh parsley
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Crushed red pepper flakes
  • Lemon wedges
  • Fresh basil
  • Extra black pepper

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken with paprika, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked, then remove from the skillet.
  4. Melt the butter in the same skillet and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
  5. Add the zucchini and cook until just tender.
  6. Stir in the cherry tomatoes, if using, and cook briefly.
  7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
  8. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and toss everything together.
  9. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
  10. Serve hot with your favorite side dish or enjoy as a complete one-pan meal.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook the zucchini—it should stay slightly crisp.
  • Fresh garlic and lemon juice make the sauce taste vibrant and flavorful.
  • Serve immediately for the juiciest chicken and best texture.
  • Prep Time: 15
  • Cook Time: 20
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 servings
  • Calories: 390 calories