This Easy Asado Chicken is juicy and packed with flavor, thanks to a mix of spices and zesty lemon. Pair it with crunchy zucchini for a fresh touch!
You’ll love how simple this dish is to make! Just season the chicken, roast it, and toss the veggies in at the end. Dinner made easy—what could be better? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on gives the best flavor and juiciness. If you prefer, you can use boneless thighs or breasts, but they may cook faster, so watch the time.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a unique, smoky flavor. Regular paprika works too, but you could also use a mix of chili powder for a slightly different taste.
Olive Oil: I love olive oil for its flavor and health benefits. You can swap it with avocado oil if you want a higher smoke point.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis are best! If you can’t find them, try yellow squash or asparagus for a different crunch.
How Do I Make Caramelized Zucchini That is Tender But Not Mushy?
Preparing zucchini to complement the chicken is essential. Here’s how to get that perfect texture:
- Slice the zucchini evenly; this helps them cook at the same rate.
- Toss them with lemon zest and juice along with garlic before adding to the chicken. This adds flavor and prevents them from getting too soggy.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Give the zucchini some room to roast and develop a golden color.
These steps ensure your zucchini stays tender yet retains a good bite, making your meal refreshing!
Easy Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or drumsticks)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for mild heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Zucchini:
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons or rounds
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 40 minutes total: 10 minutes for preparation and about 30 minutes for cooking. You’ll have juicy asado chicken paired with vibrant lemon zucchini that’s sure to please!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, set your oven to preheat at 425°F (220°C). You want it nice and hot to make sure the chicken gets crispy!
2. Prepare the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, chili powder (if you’re using it), salt, and pepper. This blend adds great flavor to the chicken!
3. Season the Chicken:
Pat the chicken thighs dry using paper towels; this helps the skin get crispy. Then, rub olive oil all over each piece. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly on the chicken and rub it in so it’s well-coated.
4. Roast the Chicken:
Arrange the seasoned chicken on a baking sheet or in an oven-safe skillet, skin-side facing up. Pop it in the oven and roast for about 25 minutes. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
5. Prepare the Zucchini:
While the chicken roasts, let’s get the zucchini ready! In a bowl, toss the sliced zucchini with lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and a drizzle of olive oil. This mixture will make your zucchini tangy and delicious!
6. Add the Zucchini:
After the chicken has roasted for 25 minutes, carefully add the zucchini around the chicken on the baking sheet or skillet. Make sure they have some space to roast!
7. Continue Roasting:
Put the pan back in the oven and roast for an additional 10-15 minutes. You want the chicken to reach 165°F (75°C) internally and the zucchini to become tender and slightly golden.
8. Rest and Garnish:
Once done, take out the pan and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This helps lock in all those tasty juices!
9. Serve:
Top your chicken and zucchini with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness!
Enjoy your flavorful and simple Easy Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini! 😊
FAQ for Easy Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs for This Recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs would work, but keep an eye on the cooking time as they may cook faster due to their smaller size. Start checking for doneness at around 20 minutes!
What if I Don’t Have Zucchini?
No problem! You can substitute zucchini with other vegetables like yellow squash, bell peppers, or asparagus. Just adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you choose, ensuring they are tender but not overcooked.
How to Properly Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or you can microwave them until hot. Avoid reheating more than once to maintain the quality.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken with the spice mixture and olive oil overnight in the fridge will enhance the flavors. Just let it come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
