This Easy Asado Chicken is bursting with flavor! Marinated in tasty spices, it pairs perfectly with a light and zesty lemon zucchini sauté. Yum!
What’s great is how simple it is to make! Just grill the chicken and toss the zucchini in a pan—dinner in no time! Your taste buds will thank you! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs or Breasts: I love using thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work just fine too! If you prefer a leaner option, go for skinless, boneless breasts. If you’re looking for a plant-based version, you could substitute with marinated tofu or portobello mushrooms.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a strong punch of flavor, but if you’re out, garlic powder can work in a pinch. I recommend using about 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove that’s called for.
Smoked Paprika: This spice adds a smoky depth to the chicken. If you don’t have it, you can use regular paprika or even a little cayenne for some heat. Just adjust to your spice preference!
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is great and gives a nice texture. However, you can replace zucchini with summer squash, asparagus, or bell peppers, based on what you have on hand.
Lemon: Fresh lemon adds brightness. If you don’t have a lemon, lime juice works too! You can also consider using vinegar (like apple cider) for a different tang.
How Do I Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
The secret to juicy, flavorful chicken is all in the marinating! Here’s how to get it right:
- Use a mix of strong flavors like spices and acidic ingredients (lime juice in this case).
- After mixing your marinade, coat the chicken well and ensure every piece is covered.
- Let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes, but 2 hours gives the best flavor. If you can, try to marinate overnight!
- Before grilling, let the chicken come to room temperature for even cooking.
Remember, the longer it marinates, the more flavorful your chicken will be!
Easy Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Asado Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional for heat)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Lemon Zucchini Sauté:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 10-15 minutes to prepare and about 15-20 minutes to cook. Including marinating time, you’ll need around 30 minutes to 2 hours if you choose to marinate the chicken longer. It’s quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, chili powder (if using), lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and coat them thoroughly in the marinade. Cover and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or pop it in the fridge for up to 2 hours for more flavor!
2. Grill the Chicken:
Heat a grill pan or an outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. Sauté the Zucchini:
While the chicken is grilling, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, toss in the sliced zucchini. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 4-5 minutes until the zucchini is tender but still has a nice crunch. Be careful not to overcook!
4. Add Lemon and Serve:
Once the zucchini is ready, stir in the lemon juice and zest, and then season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the skillet from heat. Now, it’s time to plate! Serve the grilled Asado Chicken alongside the lemon zucchini sauté. If you like, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and extra flavor. Enjoy your delicious meal!
FAQ
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for boneless, skinless thighs or breasts, you can also use drumsticks or bone-in chicken pieces. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly; they may take longer to cook through.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love heat, you can increase the chili powder in the marinade or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. For an extra kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños to the sautéed zucchini!
Can I Meal Prep This Recipe?
Yes, you can! The marinated chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days before cooking. Cooked chicken and zucchini can be refrigerated for up to 3 days in an airtight container, making it perfect for quick meals throughout the week.
What Other Vegetables Can I Use with This Recipe?
Feel free to get creative! You can substitute zucchini with bell peppers, asparagus, or even broccoli. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they remain tender yet crisp!
