This Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn is a simple and tasty dish! Juicy chicken cooked in rich garlic butter, paired with fresh zucchini and sweet corn makes a delicious meal.
You’ll love how quick this comes together—perfect for busy nights! I enjoy serving it with rice or just by itself for a lighter meal. Trust me, you’ll want seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, use turkey breasts. For a vegetarian twist, substitute with firm tofu or chickpeas.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, use garlic powder (though the taste won’t be the same). Double the amount for extra garlic lovers!
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds a nice crunch, but if you can’t find any, yellow squash works well. You can also use bell peppers or green beans as alternatives for variety.
Corn: Fresh corn adds sweetness, but frozen corn is just as good. If you’re looking for something different, try using peas or diced carrots instead.
Butter: While unsalted butter is recommended for better control over saltiness, you can use olive oil or a dairy-free margarine for a lighter or vegan option.
How Can I Make Sure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
Keeping the chicken juicy is key, and here are my tips:
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer; aim for 165°F (75°C) in the center.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This keeps the juices locked in.
- Don’t skip the garlic butter sauce! It not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the chicken moist.
Remember, cooking time can vary based on the thickness of your chicken breasts, so adjust accordingly!
Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Juice of half a lemon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take you about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking everything to perfection. It’s a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and a bit of smoked paprika if you like a smoky flavor. Make sure all sides are well coated!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter:
Next, lower the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter to the same skillet. Let it melt, and then add the minced garlic. Stir it around for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Cook the Vegetables:
Add the sliced zucchini and corn into the skillet with the garlic butter. Stir everything together to make sure the veggies get coated in that delicious buttery goodness. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, until the zucchini is tender but not mushy.
5. Combine Everything:
Now it’s time to add the chicken back into the skillet. Place the chicken on top of the zucchini and corn and spoon some of the garlic butter sauce over the chicken. Let it all cook together for another 2 minutes to blend the flavors nicely.
6. Finish and Serve:
Before serving, squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the dish and sprinkle the chopped parsley on top for freshness. Slice the chicken into pieces if desired, and enjoy your meal with the extra garlic butter sauce from the pan drizzled over the top!
Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn! It’s a hit for any dinner occasion!
FAQ for Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn
Can I Use Thawed Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure the chicken is fully thawed before cooking. Thaw it in the fridge overnight or quickly by submerging sealed chicken in cold water. Pat it dry before seasoning for better browning.
What Can I Use Instead of Zucchini?
If you don’t have zucchini on hand, you can substitute it with yellow squash, bell peppers, or even green beans. Each alternative will give a slightly different flavor and texture but will still be delicious!
How to 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 needed to keep it moist.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other veggies like broccoli, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and color. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time for the added veggies so everything is cooked perfectly!
