Garlic Butter Chicken and Zucchini Skillet
This Garlic Butter Chicken and Zucchini Skillet is a quick and flavorful one-pan dinner that's perfect for busy weeknights. Tender bites of seasoned chicken are seared until golden brown, then tossed with fresh zucchini in a rich garlic butter sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, this healthy, high-protein meal is naturally low in carbs, gluten-free, and packed with savory flavor.Whether you're meal prepping for the week or looking for an easy family dinner, this simple skillet recipe delivers a satisfying combination of juicy chicken, fresh vegetables, and irresistible garlic butter goodness with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Zucchini and Garlic Butter Sauce
- 2 medium zucchini sliced into half-moons
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 5 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice optional
- Additional salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
- Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and season with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss until every piece is evenly coated.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 4 to 5 minutes without moving it too much. This helps develop a golden-brown crust. Stir occasionally and continue cooking until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter
- Reduce the heat slightly and add the butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter quickly.
Step 4: Cook the Zucchini
- Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini becomes tender but still maintains a slight bite.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it with the zucchini and garlic butter sauce.
- If desired, add fresh lemon juice for brightness. Cook for another minute or two until everything is heated through.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top and serve immediately.