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Healthy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash Recipe

Healthy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash Recipe

5 from 30 reviews

A healthy and flavorful recipe featuring tender diced chicken breast sautéed with fresh zucchini and yellow squash, seasoned with Italian herbs and a bright lemon finish. This quick and easy dish is perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 1 1/4 lbs boneless chicken breasts, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 3 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Vegetables

  • 10 oz zucchini, sliced
  • 10 oz yellow squash, sliced

Finishing Touches

  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the diced chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder, making sure each piece is evenly coated with the spices.
  2. Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Allow it to warm up until shimmering.
  3. Cook the chicken: Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the hot skillet. Cook without stirring for 5-6 minutes until the underside is golden brown. Flip the pieces and continue cooking for an additional 4-5 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside.
  4. Add the vegetables: Stir in the sliced zucchini and yellow squash carefully to combine with the chicken. Sprinkle with remaining Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
  5. Sauté vegetables: Cook the mixture for 3-4 minutes, stirring gently, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp, retaining some bite.
  6. Finish with lemon and garnish: Stir in the lemon juice and zest to add brightness to the dish. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving.

Notes

  • To keep the chicken tender, avoid overcrowding the skillet so the pieces brown nicely instead of steaming.
  • Use fresh herbs or dried Italian seasoning depending on availability; fresh parsley adds a fresh touch as garnish.
  • This recipe pairs well with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
  • Adjust seasoning according to taste, especially if using low-sodium salt.
  • For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: healthy chicken recipe, chicken with zucchini, sautéed chicken breast, low fat dinner, lemon chicken, quick chicken recipe, summer squash recipe