Easy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash Recipe

July 19, 2025

This Easy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash is a quick and tasty meal! Tender chicken pairs perfectly with fresh zucchini and squash, making it colorful and healthy.

You’ll love how simple it is to prepare! Just season, cook, and enjoy. I often whip this up on busy nights—it feels like a hug on a plate! 🥰

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe, as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor, or even turkey breasts if that’s what you have on hand.

Zucchini and Yellow Squash: These veggies are versatile and add a fresh taste. If zucchini or yellow squash isn’t available, you can substitute with bell peppers, carrots, or even asparagus. The key is to pick vegetables that cook well together.

Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for its flavor, but feel free to replace it with avocado oil or even butter for a different richness. Use what you have handy!

Garlic: Fresh garlic gives great flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder works too. About 1/4 teaspoon will do the trick if fresh isn’t on hand.

How Do You Properly Cook Chicken Breasts?

Cooking chicken breasts until perfectly tender can be tricky if you’re not careful. Here’s how to do it right:

  • Start with seasoned chicken: Rubbing salt, pepper, and spices on your chicken helps lock in flavors.
  • Heat your pan properly: Make sure that the oil is hot before you add the chicken to sear it, which creates a golden crust and keeps juices in.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan: If you add too much chicken, the temperature drops and they’ll steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if necessary.
  • Check doneness: Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable method. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  • Let it rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps the juices redistribute, making it juicy.

Easy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash Recipe

Easy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash

Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
  • 1 medium yellow squash, sliced into half-moons
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
  • Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Time Needed

This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and approximately 15-20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you should be able to whip this up in 30 minutes or less! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Instructions

1. Preparing the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This will help them sear better. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. Make sure to coat them evenly for maximum flavor!

2. Cooking the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and no longer pink in the center. To check for doneness, you can cut into one of the breasts or use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest.

3. Sautéing the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil along with the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant (be careful not to burn it!). Next, add the sliced zucchini and yellow squash. Season with salt, pepper, and the remaining Italian seasoning as well as red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit of spice. Cook the veggies, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until they are tender but still slightly crisp.

4. Combining Chicken and Vegetables

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Slice the cooked chicken breasts into strips or bite-sized pieces and return them to the skillet with the veggies. Toss everything together gently for about 1-2 minutes until everything is warmed through and well combined.

5. Serving

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley or basil if you like. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a burst of fresh flavor! This dish is not only delicious but also colorful, making it a feast for the eyes!

Enjoy your healthy and delicious Easy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash!

Easy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash Recipe

FAQ – Easy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash

Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs are a great substitute. They tend to be juicier and flavorful. Just follow the same cooking method, but you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs can take a bit longer than breasts.

What Other Vegetables Can I Add?

Feel free to get creative! Bell peppers, asparagus, broccoli, or even spinach would be delicious additions. Just make sure to chop them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking. Adjust cooking times as needed based on the vegetables you choose.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of water or broth to keep the vegetables from drying out.

Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time! Season the chicken and slice the vegetables, then store them separately in the fridge. Cook everything just before you’re ready to serve for the freshest taste.

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