If you’re craving a dish that is bursting with bright, fresh flavors and comes together in just about 30 minutes, the Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe is your new go-to meal. This vibrant skillet dinner combines tender, juicy chicken with the delicate sweetness of zucchini and yellow squash, all kissed with zesty lemon and savory Parmesan. It’s a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and herbaceous notes that makes every bite deeply satisfying yet light enough for any season.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make this dish is a breeze thanks to a handful of everyday ingredients that each bring something special to the table. From the rich, umami-packed parmesan cheese to the fresh brightness of lemon zest, every component plays a key role in building layers of flavor and texture.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts (1 1/4 lbs): Bite-sized pieces cook quickly and soak up all those beautiful seasonings.
- Olive oil (2 Tbsp, divided): A heart-healthy fat that helps everything brown beautifully and adds subtle fruitiness.
- Butter (2 Tbsp, divided): Adds creaminess and richness when cooking the veggies for an indulgent finish.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for highlighting every flavor in the dish.
- Italian seasoning (3 tsp, divided): A fragrant blend of herbs that transports this skillet meal to Mediterranean paradise.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp, divided): Infuses a gentle garlic punch without overpowering the fresh ingredients.
- Onion powder (1/2 tsp): Adds natural sweetness and depth.
- Lemon zest (1 tsp, plus more for serving): Provides a fresh citrus pop that lifts the entire dish.
- Zucchini (10 oz.): Sliced and halved if wide, these green gems give a tender, slightly crunchy texture.
- Yellow squash (10 oz.): Sweet, delicate, and colorful, balancing the greens on your plate.
- Finely shredded parmesan (1/3 cup, or more to taste): The ultimate savory topping that melts into the dish beautifully.
- Chopped fresh parsley (2 Tbsp): Brings a fresh, herbal brightness that cuts through richness.
- Fresh lemon juice (2 Tbsp): Adds brightness and acidity, making this skillet meal irresistibly zesty.
How to Make Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While it warms up, season your diced chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon zest for a perfect flavor foundation. Carefully add the chicken to the skillet and let it cook until it’s nicely browned on the outside and cooked through on the inside. This step is key—you want that golden crust to lock in juiciness and flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Zucchini and Squash
Remove the chicken briefly and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and butter, letting the butter melt until it’s foamy and fragrant. Toss in the sliced zucchini and yellow squash along with a pinch more salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to keep the flavor consistent. Sauté until the vegetables turn tender but still retain a bit of bite and their vibrant colors. This gentle cooking keeps their natural sweetness front and center.
Step 3: Combine and Finish with Parmesan and Lemon
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with your veggies. Pour in the fresh lemon juice, sprinkle the shredded parmesan cheese, and add the chopped parsley. Give everything a good toss to combine all those fabulous flavors and ensure the cheese begins melting into the warm ingredients. The lemon juice brightens the dish, while the parmesan lends an irresistible savory creaminess.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve Hot
For that final flourish, sprinkle extra parmesan and a little more lemon zest right on top. This simple garnish adds a touch of visual appeal and a last burst of citrus aroma just before serving. Now your Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe is ready to enjoy—warm, comforting, and bursting with sunshine on a plate.
How to Serve Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe
Garnishes
To enhance the flavors and presentation even further, fresh garnishes are your best friends. A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a beautiful green pop and fresh aroma. More lemon zest scattered on top brightens each bite and elevates the overall zing. You could even add some toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a bit of indulgence.
Side Dishes
This skillet dinner stands perfectly on its own but can be paired beautifully with simple side dishes. A bed of fluffy rice or creamy risotto complements the juicy chicken and sautéed veggies. For lighter options, serve with a crisp green salad or garlic-roasted potatoes to round out the meal with a bit of texture contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to make this Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe feel extra special? Try plating it over freshly cooked pasta to turn it into an effortless weeknight pasta dish. You can also stuff the chicken and veggie mixture into warm pita pockets for a portable meal or serve it in a colorful bowl as a fresh, vibrant grain bowl with quinoa or farro.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually marry nicely overnight, making it a tasty next-day lunch or dinner.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep. Cool the dish completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. To maintain the best texture, consider freezing chicken and vegetables separately if possible.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to prevent drying out, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed. You can also microwave, covering loosely, stirring occasionally to heat evenly. Fresh lemon juice can be added again after reheating to bring back that bright zing.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a juicy, flavorful alternative. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs might take a bit longer to cook through.
What if I don’t have yellow squash? Can I substitute something else?
You can swap yellow squash with more zucchini, summer squash, or even sliced bell peppers. The idea is to use tender vegetables that cook quickly and complement the chicken.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe is naturally gluten-free as none of the ingredients contain gluten. Just double-check your seasonings and parmesan to be sure.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, skip the butter or use a plant-based alternative, and swap parmesan for nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese substitute. The lemon and seasoning still give plenty of flavor!
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the chicken or toss in some chopped fresh chili peppers with the veggies. Spicing up this dish is a great way to customize it to your heat preference.
Final Thoughts
This Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe is one of those magic meals that feels both indulgent and healthy, full of bright flavors that bring sunshine to your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers every single time. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how something so simple can turn into a truly memorable dinner experience.
Print
Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash is a quick, flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender chicken bites seasoned with Italian herbs and bright lemon zest, paired with sautéed zucchini and yellow squash. Finished with freshly grated Parmesan and parsley, it’s a light, satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 1/4 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite size pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 3 tsp Italian seasoning, divided
- 1 tsp garlic powder, divided
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp lemon zest, plus more for serving
- 2 Tbsp olive oil, divided
- 2 Tbsp butter, divided (or more olive oil)
Vegetables
- 10 oz (2 small) zucchini, sliced and halved if wider
- 10 oz (2 small) yellow squash, sliced and halved if wider
Finishing
- 1/3 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese, or more to taste
- 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, 2 tsp Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon zest. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until it is fully cooked through and no longer pink inside, about 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 Tbsp olive oil and 2 Tbsp butter. Add zucchini and yellow squash, sprinkle with the remaining 1 tsp Italian seasoning and 1/2 tsp garlic powder. Sauté the vegetables until tender and lightly browned, approximately 6-7 minutes.
- Combine and finish: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir in fresh lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Toss everything thoroughly to combine and allow the cheese to melt slightly, about 1-2 minutes.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle additional Parmesan and lemon zest over the top for garnish. Serve the dish hot for a fresh and flavorful meal.
Notes
- You can substitute butter with extra olive oil for a dairy-free version.
- If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-shredded for better melting and flavor.
- Serve this dish with crusty bread or over a bed of cooked quinoa or rice to make it more filling.
- Adjust seasonings according to your preference for salt and herbs.
