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Lemon Zucchini and Squash Chicken Skillet

This dish features tender chicken breasts seared to golden brown and vegetables like zucchini and squash sautéed with fresh lemon zest, creating a bright, flavorful skillet meal. The vegetables retain a slight crunch while the chicken remains juicy, offering a colorful, appetizing final appearance.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken breasts boneless and skinless
  • 2 medium zucchini sliced into rounds
  • 2 medium squash sliced into rounds
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 lemon zest and juice
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

  • Skillet or large frying pan
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • Zester or fine grater
  • Tongs or spatula

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry and season them with salt and pepper on both sides.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  3. Place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet and sear for about 5–6 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Use tongs to flip and check for a nice crust.
  4. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate to rest.
  5. Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, with a light sizzle.
  6. Stir in the sliced zucchini and squash, cooking for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still slightly crisp.
  7. Zest the lemon directly into the skillet to release the aromatic oils, then squeeze in the lemon juice and stir to combine.
  8. Return the rested chicken breasts to the skillet, placing them on top of the vegetables, and cook for another 2 minutes to meld flavors.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with additional lemon zest if desired.

Notes

For extra brightness, add chopped fresh parsley before serving.