If you’re on the hunt for a vibrant, delicious, and cozy meal, the Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe is an absolute winner. This dish brings together juicy, tender chicken bites bathed in citrusy brightness and savory parmesan, paired perfectly with tender sautéed zucchini and yellow squash. It’s an easy skillet dinner that bursts with fresh flavors and colors, making it as pleasing to the eye as it is to your taste buds. Every bite is like a warm hug, inviting you to savor a simple yet elevated home-cooked meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe truly lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—not just for flavor, but for texture and brightness. Fresh herbs and lemon zest make the whole dish pop, while parmesan adds that irresistible savory finish. Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting skillet meal:
- 1 1/4 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts: Diced into bite-sized pieces for quick and even cooking.
- 2 Tbsp olive oil, divided: Provides a fruity base to sauté chicken and veggies to perfection.
- 2 Tbsp butter, divided: Adds rich creaminess, enhancing the texture and depth of flavor.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of every ingredient.
- 3 tsp Italian seasoning, divided: A fragrant mix that spices the chicken and vegetables with Mediterranean warmth.
- 1 tsp garlic powder, divided: Imparts mellow garlicky notes without overpowering the dish.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and complexity.
- 1 tsp lemon zest, plus more for serving: Provides vibrant citrus brightness that lifts the entire skillet.
- 10 oz zucchini (2 small): Fresh, tender, and lightly sweet, sliced to cook evenly.
- 10 oz yellow squash (2 small): Adds beautiful color and a buttery texture.
- 1/3 cup finely shredded parmesan: Creamy and flavorful, melting into the dish for savory richness.
- 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley: Bright green notes that add freshness and a pop of color.
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice: The finishing acidic touch that ties all the flavors together perfectly.
How to Make Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe
Step 1: Cook the chicken
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. While the pan warms up, season the diced chicken with salt, freshly ground black pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon zest. This combination builds a flavorful crust on the chicken. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until they’re golden on the outside and cooked through inside—this usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. The aroma at this point is already incredibly inviting!
Step 2: Sauté the zucchini and squash
Using the same skillet (no need to clean it—that’s where the flavor is!), add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Toss in the zucchini and yellow squash slices along with the remaining Italian seasoning and garlic powder. Cook the veggies, stirring occasionally, until they become tender but still hold a bit of bite—about 5 minutes. The butter adds a luscious silkiness, while the seasoning ensures the vegetables aren’t just a side but a star partner.
Step 3: Combine chicken and veggies
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet alongside the softened vegetables. Stir in the fresh lemon juice, shredded parmesan, and chopped parsley. Toss everything gently to let the cheese melt and the lemon juice brighten every morsel of food in the skillet. This step is where all the flavors meld together, creating that perfect balance between creamy, tangy, and herby notes.
Step 4: Garnish and serve
Finally, sprinkle extra parmesan and a little more lemon zest on top before serving. These final touches add a gorgeous visual appeal and a burst of fresh citrus flavor that makes every bite sing. Serve the dish hot right from the skillet for that comforting, just-made feeling.
How to Serve Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and an extra dusting of parmesan before serving really enhances the dish’s appeal. A few thin lemon slices or a zest spiral on top can also brighten the presentation and provide a hint to that glorious lemon flavor inside.
Side Dishes
This skillet chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider a simple garlic butter rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a crisp green salad for contrast. If you want to keep it low-carb, cauliflower rice or a fresh garden salad with vinaigrette work wonderfully. The key is to keep the sides light to allow the skillet’s fresh flavors to shine.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning dinner party, serve portions of the chicken and veggies over individual plates of polenta or pasta, letting the creamy parmesan sauce drip down invitingly. A rustic cast iron skillet placed at the center of the table encourages sharing and adds a cozy, welcoming vibe. You can even scoop the mixture into warm pita pockets or tortillas for a casual twist that feels like an elevated weeknight wrap.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash to an airtight container. It’s best stored in the refrigerator where it will keep well for up to 3 days. You’ll find the flavors only deepen slightly, making it perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
This recipe freezes nicely, making it a great option for meal prep. Portion the cooled dish into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a small splash of water or lemon juice while reheating can help revive moisture and vibrance. Be careful not to overheat as the chicken can dry out, but once reheated carefully, it tastes just as delightful.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more richness and remain juicy, making the dish even more comforting. Just adjust cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Simply omit the parmesan or substitute it with a dairy-free cheese alternative. You can also replace the butter with extra olive oil to keep things flavorful and moist.
What can I use if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
A mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary makes a perfect homemade blend that matches the flavors beautifully. Fresh herbs work wonderfully too, just adjust quantities to taste.
Can I prepare this recipe for meal prep?
Definitely! It reheats well and stores nicely in the fridge or freezer, making it a wonderful option for preparing ahead and enjoying quick, tasty meals throughout the week.
How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Feel free to toss in sliced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or spinach towards the end of cooking. They blend seamlessly and boost both nutrition and color vibrancy.
Final Thoughts
Trying the Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe is like inviting a fresh, cheerful meal into your kitchen. It’s simplicity at its best, combining bright lemon, lush parmesan, and tender vegetables in a single skillet that delivers comfort without fuss. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe promises to become a beloved staple you’ll return to again and again. So go ahead, grab your skillet, and dive into this effortless, flavorful dish!
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 Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender bite-sized chicken pieces seasoned with Italian herbs and lemon zest, sautéed alongside fresh zucchini and yellow squash. Finished with parmesan cheese, fresh lemon juice, and parsley, this dish offers a bright and savory experience perfect for a healthy 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
Vegetables
- 10 oz. (2 small) zucchini, sliced and halved if wider
- 10 oz. (2 small) yellow squash, sliced and halved if wider
Other
- 2 Tbsp olive oil, divided
- 2 Tbsp butter, divided (or more olive oil)
- 1/3 cup finely shredded parmesan, 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 pieces with salt, pepper, 2 tsp Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, onion powder, and 1 tsp lemon zest. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked through and lightly browned, about 6-8 minutes.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 Tbsp olive oil and 1 Tbsp butter. Add the sliced zucchini and yellow squash, along with the remaining 1 tsp Italian seasoning and 1/2 tsp garlic powder. Sauté the vegetables until tender but still slightly crisp, around 5-7 minutes.
- Combine Chicken and Vegetables: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the fresh lemon juice and sprinkle the shredded parmesan and chopped parsley over the mixture. Toss everything together gently to combine and melt the cheese slightly, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with extra parmesan cheese and additional lemon zest. Serve hot and enjoy this bright, savory, and wholesome skillet meal.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with extra olive oil and omit parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative.
- You can use chicken thighs if preferred; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish — feel free to add more to taste.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or over cooked quinoa or rice for a complete meal.
