This juicy chicken and zucchini recipe is everything you want in a weeknight dinner: fast, healthy, and absolutely satisfying. It features golden-seared chicken breasts and tender zucchini slices, all cooked in one pan for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Each bite is infused with savory garlic, olive oil, and herbs that bring out the natural juiciness of both chicken and veggies.

Whether you’re keeping things low-carb, prepping meals for the week, or just trying to use up garden zucchini, this recipe checks every box. The texture contrast of the tender chicken with lightly caramelized zucchini makes it hard to resist. Plus, it pairs effortlessly with a wide variety of sides.

Why You’ll Love This Juicy Chicken and Zucchini

This dish is quick to prep and even quicker to cook. You only need a handful of wholesome ingredients to pull it off, but the flavors taste like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. It’s the perfect choice for anyone looking to eat clean without compromising on taste. With just one skillet and no fuss, you get a comforting, home-cooked meal on the table in under 30 minutes.

It’s also versatile: feel free to toss in cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or even a sprinkle of parmesan to make it your own. And if you’re meal-prepping, this recipe reheats beautifully, making it an easy win for lunchboxes or quick dinners.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For the juiciest results, boneless skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs work best. Chicken breasts cook fast and slice beautifully, but thighs offer a slightly richer flavor and stay moist even if slightly overcooked. Be sure to pound the chicken lightly to an even thickness so it sears evenly in the pan. You can also use pre-sliced chicken cutlets to save on prep time.

Ingredients for the Juicy Chicken and Zucchini

You won’t need a long list to make this recipe shine. Just a few fresh ingredients and a couple pantry staples do all the work. The zucchini brings a natural sweetness while the chicken soaks up all the herbed seasoning.

Chicken breasts or thighs
Zucchini
Olive oil
Garlic cloves
Italian seasoning
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika
Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

Each ingredient plays a role. Olive oil helps the chicken and zucchini sear beautifully while keeping things heart-healthy. Garlic boosts the aroma and flavor, while Italian seasoning and paprika add a subtle warmth and color.

How To Make the Juicy Chicken and Zucchini

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by slicing your chicken breasts horizontally to make cutlets, or use chicken thighs as they are. Pat dry, then season both sides generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add chicken and sear for 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Zucchini

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add a bit more olive oil if needed. Toss in the sliced zucchini and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until tender and lightly browned. Stir in minced garlic during the last minute of cooking.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it in with the zucchini. Let everything warm together for a couple of minutes so the flavors meld. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

How to Serve and Store Juicy Chicken and Zucchini

This recipe makes a cozy dinner for four people, but you can easily double it if you’re feeding more or want leftovers. Serve it right from the skillet for a rustic presentation, or plate it with rice, potatoes, or a big green salad.

To store leftovers, let everything cool completely and then pack into airtight containers. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to avoid drying out the chicken.

What to Serve With Juicy Chicken and Zucchini?

Garlic Butter Rice

The subtle richness of garlic butter rice pairs perfectly with this juicy chicken dish and soaks up all the pan flavors.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Creamy potatoes offer a classic comfort vibe and balance out the lightness of zucchini.

Caesar Salad

A crisp Caesar salad on the side adds texture and zing without overpowering the dish.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Roasted sweet potatoes add a pop of natural sweetness that works so well alongside the savory chicken.

Crusty Bread

Mop up any remaining juices with a warm chunk of bread straight from the oven.

Lemon Herb Couscous

For a quick and zesty side, couscous with lemon and fresh herbs makes a light, fluffy partner.

Steamed Broccoli

If you’re keeping it extra simple and healthy, a side of steamed broccoli does the job without fuss.

Creamy Pasta

Want something indulgent? Try this with Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for a comforting dinner duo.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you’re all about chicken recipes that don’t disappoint, here are more comforting and flavor-packed ideas from Mia Plates:

Try the creamy goodness of our Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
Add a twist with Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce
Get saucy with Creamy Beef and Shells
Dive into the bold flavor of Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce
Or embrace cozy comfort with Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta

Save This Recipe For Later

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Let me know how it turned out for you. Did you go with chicken breasts or thighs? Did you toss in any extra veggies or sprinkle cheese on top?

I love seeing how everyone makes these recipes their own. Feel free to ask questions or share your own delicious variations.

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