Sizzling One-Pan Chicken with Charred Corn & Zucchini Recipe

Summer sizzles with this mouthwatering one-pan chicken with charred corn and zucchini that promises effortless cooking and maximum flavor.

The skillet becomes your culinary canvas, where tender chicken meets smoky grilled vegetables in a delightful dance of textures and seasonings.

Each ingredient melds perfectly, creating a vibrant meal that celebrates fresh produce and simple techniques.

Golden-brown chicken nestles alongside caramelized corn kernels and tender zucchini slices, releasing irresistible aromas that fill the kitchen.

Minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction define this quick weeknight dinner solution.

Seasonal ingredients shine in this streamlined recipe that delivers restaurant-quality results with home-cooked comfort.

You’ll love how quickly this dish comes together, making it a perfect go-to meal for busy evenings.

Dive into this delectable skillet sensation and savor every delicious bite.

Ingredients List for One-Pan Chicken with Charred Corn and Zucchini

• Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that provides a hearty base for the dish, best when fresh and boneless for quick, even cooking.

• Zucchini, Corn: Fresh summer vegetables that add vibrant color and texture, choose firm zucchini with bright green skin and sweet corn with plump kernels.

• Kosher Salt, Black Pepper: Essential for layering flavor and bringing out natural tastes of ingredients.
• Garlic Powder, Paprika: Warming spices that add depth and complexity to the chicken's coating.
• Lemon: Bright citrus that provides a zesty finish and helps tenderize the chicken.
• Fresh Basil or Parsley: Optional herb garnish that adds a fresh, aromatic touch.

• Olive Oil, Butter: Create rich, golden surfaces and add luxurious flavor to the vegetables and chicken.

Tools Needed for One-Pan Chicken with Charred Corn and Zucchini

• Large skillet: Essential for cooking chicken, zucchini, and corn in one pan.
• Cutting board: Perfect for trimming zucchini and cutting chicken strips.
• Sharp knife: Needed for slicing zucchini, corn kernels, and chicken.
• Grater: Used for zesting lemon.
• Medium bowl: Great for mixing chicken seasoning.
• Large bowl: Helpful for preparing zucchini.
• Paper towels: Useful for drying zucchini.
• Instant-read thermometer: Critical for checking chicken's internal temperature.
• Tongs or spatula: Helpful for flipping chicken and stirring vegetables.

Step-by-Step Guide to One-Pan Chicken with Charred Corn and Zucchini

• Zucchini Preparation

Slice zucchini into thin pieces, seasoning with salt and pepper in a mixing bowl.

• Corn Removal

Strip corn kernels from the ear, setting aside.

• Seasoning Blend

Create a zesty spice mixture using lemon zest, salt, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Coat chicken strips thoroughly in this fragrant blend.

• Chicken Searing

Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Cook chicken strips until golden brown and fully cooked, ensuring each piece is crispy and tender.

• Vegetable Charring

Transfer chicken to a plate. Sauté zucchini and corn in the same skillet, developing deep caramelized edges and rich flavors.

• Final Assembly

Return chicken to the skillet. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over everything, creating a bright and cohesive dish. Optional herb garnish adds a fresh finish.

Tips & Flavor Ideas for One-Pan Chicken with Charred Corn and Zucchini

• Quick Cooking Hacks
• Replace chicken breasts with thighs or turkey strips for different flavor profiles and textures that keep the meal exciting and versatile.
• Experiment with alternative spice blends like Mediterranean za'atar, Cajun seasoning, or curry powder to transform the dish's flavor landscape instantly.
• Incorporate additional summer vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus to create more colorful and nutritious one-pan meals that maximize taste and nutrition.
• Use a cast-iron skillet for superior heat distribution and deeper caramelization, ensuring each chicken strip and vegetable develops rich, golden-brown edges and maximum flavor intensity.

Serving Suggestions for One-Pan Chicken with Charred Corn and Zucchini

• Zesty Lemon Squeeze: Brighten the dish by squeezing fresh lemon juice over the chicken and vegetables just before serving, adding a tangy pop of flavor that cuts through the richness.
• Herbal Garnish Delight: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top for a burst of color and fresh herbal notes that elevate the entire meal's taste and presentation.
• Sidekick Companions: Serve alongside fluffy rice, crusty bread, or a light quinoa salad to soak up the delicious pan juices and create a more substantial meal that satisfies hunger completely.
• Creamy Dip Option: Prepare a quick yogurt or sour cream-based sauce with a dash of garlic and herbs to provide a cool, creamy complement to the charred chicken and vegetables.

Storing and Planning Notes for One-Pan Chicken with Charred Corn and Zucchini

• Smart Batch Cooking: Whip up extra chicken and vegetable portions for quick lunch meal preps during busy weekdays. Store components separately to maintain maximum freshness and crisp texture.
• Refrigerator Smart Storage: Keep leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days. The zucchini and corn might soften slightly, so reheat gently in a skillet to revive original texture and prevent sogginess.
• Freezer-Friendly Strategy: Cool chicken and vegetable mixture completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. These meals stay delicious for 2-3 weeks when properly sealed, making emergency dinner solutions a breeze.
• Reheating Magic Trick: Warm refrigerated or thawed meals in a skillet over medium heat to restore crispy edges and prevent drying out. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain moisture and refresh flavors, ensuring each bite tastes just as delectable as the first serving.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Calories: 360 kcal

Servings: 5

Succulent One-Pan Chicken with Charred Corn and Zucchini

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4.5 from 16 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 5 1x

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Description

Home cooks delight in this simple one-pan chicken with charred corn and zucchini that delivers maximum flavor with minimal cleanup. Quick skillet preparation combines tender chicken, smoky grilled vegetables, and fresh herbs for a perfect weeknight meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.25 lbs (567 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2)
• 3 ears fresh corn
• 1 large zucchini (10 to 12 oz / 284 to 340 g)
• 1 medium lemon
• 1.25 tsps kosher salt
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1.5 tsps garlic powder
• 0.75 tsp regular or smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsps unsalted butter
• Fresh basil or parsley leaves, for serving (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prep Station: Slice zucchini into delicate half-moons and season with salt and pepper. Strip corn kernels from the cob and zest the lemon into a separate container.
2. Seasoning Blend: Craft a robust spice mixture combining salt, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Thoroughly coat chicken strips with this aromatic blend.
3. Chicken Searing: Ignite olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Position chicken strips strategically, ensuring ample spacing. Sear until golden and cooked through, approximately 5-6 minutes total, achieving an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. Veggie Transformation: Remove chicken and reserve. In the same skillet, introduce zucchini, cooking until beautifully caramelized and tender. Incorporate corn kernels, butter, and remaining seasonings, sautéing until kernels develop a subtle char.
5. Final Fusion: Reunite chicken with the vibrant vegetable medley. Drizzle fresh lemon juice across the dish, gently tossing to harmonize flavors. Optional: Sprinkle torn basil or parsley for a verdant finish.

Notes

• Prep Like a Pro: Pat zucchini dry to achieve perfect golden-brown searing without excess moisture.
• Temperature Matters: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches exactly 165°F for safe, juicy results.
• Spacing Technique: Leave room between chicken strips in the skillet to promote even browning and prevent steaming.
• Flavor Boost: Fresh lemon juice added at the end brightens the entire dish and enhances all other ingredients’ natural flavors.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Fat: 16 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 35 g
• Cholesterol: 100 mg