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
- Season the chicken with paprika, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked, then remove from the skillet.
- Melt the butter in the same skillet and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
- Add the zucchini and cook until just tender.
- Stir in the cherry tomatoes, if using, and cook briefly.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
- Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and toss everything together.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- 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
