Description
A quick and healthy Italian Chicken with Zucchini recipe featuring juicy chicken breasts and tender zucchini sautéed with garlic, olive oil, and classic Italian herbs. Ready in under 30 minutes, this one-pan dish is perfect for busy weeknights offering fresh, vibrant flavors with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Vegetables
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds or half-moons
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
Fats & Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Herbs & Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme blend)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes (for spice)
Cheese & Garnishes
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Slice the zucchini into even 1/4 inch rounds or half-moons for uniform cooking. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs for maximum flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- Cook the Zucchini: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Sauté the minced garlic for about one minute until fragrant. Add the zucchini slices, lightly season with salt and pepper, and cook for 4-5 minutes until tender but still slightly crisp.
- Combine and Finish: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, tucking them among the zucchini. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if using. Cover the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and flavors meld nicely.
Notes
- Don’t overcrowd the pan to allow proper browning and avoid steaming.
- Always pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a good sear.
- Use freshly minced garlic for more vibrant aroma and flavor.
- Adjust seasoning gradually by tasting during cooking for balanced flavors.
- Let the chicken rest a few minutes after cooking to retain juices.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg