This Easy Asado Chicken is packed with flavor and is perfect for a quick dinner. The juicy chicken pairs wonderfully with a light, zesty lemon zucchini sauté!
You’ll love how simple it is to make this dish. Just grill the chicken and sauté the zucchini in a few minutes. It’s like a summer feast on your plate! 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for quick cooking. If you prefer, chicken thighs work too. They’re juicier and cook the same way, just adjust the cooking time slightly.
Olive Oil: This adds great flavor and helps cook the chicken and zucchini. You can swap it with avocado oil or even melted butter for a different richness.
Spices: Smoked paprika and ground cumin bring a warm, earthy taste. If you don’t have these, try regular paprika and a pinch of chili powder instead!
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is ideal. If you’re out, summer squash or even asparagus can make a tasty substitute. Both bring a nice texture!
Lemon: Fresh lemon zest and juice brighten up the dish. If fresh isn’t available, bottled lemon juice works as a last resort, but fresh is always best!
How Do I Marinate Chicken Properly?
Marinating chicken may seem easy, but doing it right can really up the flavor. Start by mixing your marinade ingredients—this one focuses on garlic and warm spices.
- Use a non-reactive bowl (glass or stainless steel) so the flavors mix well.
- Coat the chicken evenly with the marinade. Make sure to cover all sides!
- Let it sit for at least 15 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the fridge. More time allows deeper flavors.
This step is key, so don’t skip it, even if you’re in a rush!
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Vegetables?
Sautéing zucchini is quick and helps keep it crisp, enhancing its natural flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat oil over medium heat before adding the zucchini. This prevents sticking and promotes even cooking.
- Add zucchini in a single layer; don’t overcrowd the pan for best results.
- Keep the veggies moving! Stir occasionally for about 5-7 minutes until tender.
After sautéing, don’t forget to season well with salt and pepper to elevate the taste even more!
Easy Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 medium zucchinis, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced (plus extra lemon slices for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté will take about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 15 minutes marinating the chicken and then another 15 minutes cooking both the chicken and zucchini. Just a quick meal that’s full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts with this spice mixture, ensuring they are evenly covered. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes; this will boost the flavor!
2. Cook the Chicken:
While the chicken is marinating, heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the marinated chicken. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has lovely grill marks. Once done, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. Prepare the Zucchini Sauté:
In another skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the bite-sized zucchini pieces. Sauté them for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and slightly browned.
4. Add Lemon and Herbs:
Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped parsley into the cooked zucchini. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes, just to combine all the flavors nicely.
5. Plate and Serve:
Slice the grilled chicken breasts into strips. On a plate or in a bowl, serve the chicken alongside the zesty lemon zucchini sauté. Garnish your dish with extra lemon slices for a fresh touch.
Enjoy this delicious and simple Easy Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté—perfect for a healthy weeknight meal! Feel free to share this recipe with friends who love quick and tasty eating! 🌟
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute Chicken with Another Protein?
Yes, you can! This recipe works well with chicken thighs, pork chops, or even firm fish like salmon. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure your protein is cooked through.
What If I Don’t Have Zucchini?
No problem! You can substitute zucchini with other vegetables such as bell peppers, asparagus, or even broccoli. Each will have a different flavor profile but will still pair well with the chicken!
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken and Zucchini?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. The zucchini can become soft, but it will still taste delicious!
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you love heat, add more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken marinade. You can also pair it with a spicy dipping sauce on the side for extra kick!
