Easy Asado Chicken with Sautéed Lemon Zucchini

Category: Chicken Recipes

This easy Asado Chicken is a treat with its tasty spices and juicy flavor. Pair it with sautéed lemon zucchini for a fresh and zesty side!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are my go-to for tenderness. If you prefer leaner meat, use chicken breasts instead. For a budget-friendly option, try bone-in thighs, just adjust cooking time accordingly.

Spices: Smoked paprika gives a lovely depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika will work too. You can skip the chili powder for a milder dish, especially if serving kids.

Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is great here, but if it’s out of season, yellow squash works wonderfully too. If you’re looking for a different texture, try sautéed bell peppers or asparagus.

Lemon: The zest and juice really brighten the dish! If you have limes handy, feel free to use them instead for a unique twist.

How Do I Get Juicy Chicken Every Time?

Getting juicy chicken comes down to a few easy steps. First, let your chicken marinate for at least 10-15 minutes to soak in all those flavors. Second, don’t rush cooking—medium-high heat is key to browning without drying out.

  • Use a meat thermometer if you have one; chicken is perfectly cooked at 165°F (75°C).
  • Let your chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps keep all the juices inside!

What’s the Best Way to Sauté Vegetables Like Zucchini?

Sautéing zucchini is quick and easy! Here are my top tips:

  • Heat your skillet before adding oil to ensure even cooking.
  • Keep your heat at medium to avoid burning the garlic—saute it for only about 30 seconds to release flavor.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan with zucchini. Cook in batches if needed to let them sauté properly and get that nice golden color.

Enjoy your flavorful meal! It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and pairs beautifully with a side salad.

Easy Asado Chicken with Sautéed Lemon Zucchini

Easy Asado Chicken with Sautéed Lemon Zucchini

Ingredients:

For the Asado Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for mild heat)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Juice of half a lime or lemon

For the Sautéed Lemon Zucchini:

  • 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Total Time Needed:

This recipe will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll need about 10-15 minutes for prep and marinating the chicken, followed by another 15 minutes for cooking everything. It’s a quick and delicious meal that fits right into your busy weeknight schedule!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

Start by mixing the spices! In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, dried oregano, chili powder (if using), salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice mix evenly over the chicken pieces, making sure to coat them well. Drizzle the chicken with lime or lemon juice and set aside to marinate for about 10-15 minutes if you have the time—this helps all the flavors to soak in!

2. Cook the Chicken:

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and nicely browned. You can check that it’s done by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a plate for a few minutes while you prepare the zucchini.

3. Prepare the Zucchini:

In a separate skillet, add olive oil or butter and heat it over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it gets fragrant—be careful not to burn it!

4. Sauté Zucchini:

Now, add the sliced zucchini to the skillet with the garlic. Cook while stirring occasionally until the zucchini is tender and slightly golden, approximately 5-6 minutes. You want them to be cooked but still have a bit of crunch.

5. Add Lemon Flavor:

To the sautéed zucchini, stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to let all the flavors meld together. This is where the magic happens!

6. Serve:

Now it’s time to plate your meal! Arrange the Asado chicken alongside the sautéed lemon zucchini on a serving plate. If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a touch of color and flavor. Enjoy your delicious and easy dinner!

This recipe serves about 4 people and is perfect for a quick, flavorful weeknight dinner that the whole family will enjoy. Happy cooking!

Easy Asado Chicken with Sautéed Lemon Zucchini

FAQ for Easy Asado Chicken with Sautéed Lemon Zucchini

Can I Use Different Cut of Chicken?

Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken thighs provide great flavor and juiciness, you can also use chicken breasts if you prefer. Just be mindful that chicken breasts may cook a bit faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.

What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?

If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can substitute it with regular paprika or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious!

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or on the stove to avoid drying out the chicken.

Can I Add More Vegetables to the Zucchini?

Yes, feel free to add other vegetables! Bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus make great additions. Just be sure to adjust cooking times based on the vegetables you choose to ensure everything is perfectly tender.

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