Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Skillet
This easy and flavorful one-pan recipe is perfect for a healthy, hearty, and bright dinner that your whole family will enjoy. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and zesty lemon is not only satisfying but also great as leftovers!
10 oz yellow squash (2 small), sliced, halved if wide
1/3 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese (or more to taste)
2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley
2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken: Heat 1 Tbsp of olive oil in a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, 2 tsp of Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon zest. Toss to coat the chicken evenly with the seasonings.
Cook the Chicken: Melt 1 Tbsp of butter in the skillet with the olive oil. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 3 minutes, then flip the chicken and cook the other side until it’s fully cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F). This should take about 3 more minutes. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
Cook the Veggies: In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 Tbsp of olive oil and 1 Tbsp of butter over medium-high heat. Add the zucchini and squash, seasoning them with salt, 1 tsp of Italian seasoning, and 1/2 tsp of garlic powder. Cook, tossing occasionally, for about 4 minutes, or until the veggies are just tender.
Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the zucchini and squash. Drizzle the lemon juice over the mixture and toss to combine. Sprinkle the dish with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve the chicken and veggies warm, with additional Parmesan and lemon zest on top if desired.
Optional: Serve over a bed of cooked orzo or your favorite side dish for an extra touch.
Notes:
You can substitute 1 Tbsp of minced fresh garlic for the garlic powder. If using fresh garlic, add half of it to the chicken during cooking and the other half to the zucchini and squash when they are added to the skillet.