This recipe features juicy chicken breast paired with fresh zucchini and squash. It’s light, tasty, and perfect for a quick meal any day!
I love how easy it is to prepare—just season, grill, and enjoy! Plus, the colorful veggies make it a feast for the eyes. Who knew healthy could look this good? 🥗
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep this dish lean. You can swap with thighs if you prefer juiciness. For a vegetarian option, consider chickpeas or tofu as a protein source.
Zucchini & Yellow Squash: These veggies add great color and texture. If you can’t find them, bell peppers or asparagus work nicely too.
Orzo or Rice: Orzo is fun and pairs well with the dish. If you need gluten-free, choose rice or quinoa instead. You could also use whole grain pasta for a healthier alternative.
Olive Oil: It’s perfect for sautéing. If you want a different flavor, try avocado oil or melted coconut oil. You can also use less oil for a lighter option.
Parmesan Cheese: I love the salty flavor it brings. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast is a great alternative for a cheesy taste.
How Do I Cook the Chicken Perfectly?
Getting juicy chicken is key! Here are some tips:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding chicken. This sears the meat, keeping it moist.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed. This helps achieve that nice golden color.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
After cooking, let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before mixing with veggies. This allows the juices to settle, keeping your chicken tender!
Easy Healthy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 medium yellow squash, sliced into rounds
- 1 cup orzo pasta or rice
- 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
- Juice of half a lemon, plus lemon slices for garnish
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 20-25 minutes total! You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and cooking, and about 10-15 minutes for simmering the veggies and chicken. Quick, easy, and healthy—perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Base:
First, prepare the orzo pasta or rice according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain and keep warm. This will be the bed for your chicken and veggies!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. While it heats up, season the chicken breast pieces with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. Add the seasoned chicken to the hot skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until the chicken is golden and fully cooked. Once finished, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add in the sliced zucchini and yellow squash. Season with salt, pepper, and the rest of the Italian seasoning. Stir-cook the vegetables for about 5 minutes until they’re tender but still bright.
4. Combine & Finish:
Add the chicken back to the skillet with the vegetables and stir in the juice of half a lemon. Mix everything well and adjust the seasoning if needed. Let it all cook together for another minute so the flavors meld.
5. Serve & Enjoy:
To serve, place a generous scoop of orzo on each plate. Top it with the chicken and vegetable mixture, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for a pop of flavor and color. Garnish with lemon slices for a fresh touch, and enjoy your delicious, healthy meal right away!
FAQ
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a richer flavor and stay juicier. Just remember that they may require a slightly longer cooking time, around 7-10 minutes, so check for the internal temperature to reach 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Orzo?
No problem! You can substitute orzo with rice, quinoa, or even whole wheat pasta. Just follow the cooking instructions for whichever grain you choose to maintain the delicious base of the dish.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the chicken and veggies ahead and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving over the orzo or preferred base for a quick meal!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to keep everything moist.
