Description

This Juicy Chicken and Zucchini recipe is the perfect quick dinner idea for busy weeknights. With seared chicken breasts and sautéed zucchini in a garlic herb butter sauce, it’s flavorful, easy to prepare, and low in carbs. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for healthy food ideas, this one-pan wonder fits perfectly into your collection of easy recipes. Ideal for a light dinner, healthy snack, or even next-day lunch, it’s a reliable go-to that brings fresh ingredients together in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts

2 medium zucchini, thinly sliced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon butter

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Slice chicken breasts horizontally into thinner cutlets. Pat dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

3. Lower the heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. Sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Add sliced zucchini and a pinch of salt. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but not mushy.

5. Return chicken to the skillet. Spoon zucchini and pan juices over the top. Add chopped parsley and optional red pepper flakes.

6. Serve hot with your favorite side or as-is for a low-carb meal.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safety.

Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed to maintain a golden crust.

Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of parmesan for a burst of flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Sauté / Pan-seared
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 280
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 470mg
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 29g
Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: chicken zucchini dinner, low-carb dinner, healthy weeknight meal