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.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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)
Instructions
- 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.
- Seasoning Blend: Craft a robust spice mixture combining salt, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Thoroughly coat chicken strips with this aromatic blend.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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