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.