If you love meals that bring a perfect balance of bright, fresh flavors and comforting richness, then you are going to adore this Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe. It’s a seamless blend of tender, seasoned chicken mingling with tender-crisp zucchini and yellow squash, all kissed by a zesty hit of lemon and the savory depth of Parmesan cheese. This dish comes together quickly and easily, making it an ideal weeknight dinner that feels both wholesome and indulgent. Trust me—once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to favorites when you want something that’s both simple to make and packed with irresistible flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe plays a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. The combination is straightforward but thoughtful—olive oil and butter create that luxurious base, while the spices and lemon zest provide vibrant brightness. Fresh zucchini and squash not only add subtle sweetness but also a lovely pop of color.
- 1 1/4 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced: Using bite-sized pieces helps the chicken cook evenly and absorb all the flavors.
- 2 Tbsp olive oil, divided: A heart-healthy fat that adds a fruity richness and prevents sticking.
- 2 Tbsp butter, divided: Adds a silky, indulgent finish and enhances flavor depth; can be swapped with more olive oil if you prefer.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors.
- 3 tsp Italian seasoning, divided: A fragrant herb blend that gives the dish a classic Mediterranean vibe.
- 1 tsp garlic powder, divided: Boosts savory depth without the sharpness of fresh garlic.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and complexity.
- 1 tsp lemon zest, plus more for serving: Brightens the entire dish with a fragrant citrus punch.
- 10 oz. zucchini, sliced and halved if wider: Adds crisp-tender texture and fresh green color.
- 10 oz. yellow squash, sliced and halved if wider: Complements zucchini with sweetness and vibrant yellow hue.
- 1/3 cup finely shredded Parmesan: Brings a nutty, salty richness that ties all the flavors together.
- 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley: Adds a burst of herbal brightness and freshness.
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice: Lifts the dish with tangy acidity, balancing the richness perfectly.
How to Make Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces—this helps them cook quickly and soak up the seasoning. In a bowl, toss the chicken with salt, freshly ground black pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon zest. This simple seasoning mix is key to infusing the chicken with bright, savory notes that complement the fresh vegetables perfectly.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken in the Skillet
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer, giving them space to brown nicely. Cook them until they are golden on the outside and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. Flavorful browning here creates a delicious base for the whole dish.
Step 3: Sauté the Zucchini and Squash
Using the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and butter to melt together—this mixture creates a luxurious coating for the vegetables. Toss in the sliced zucchini and yellow squash along with a pinch more salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender but still have a slight bite, about 5-7 minutes. The sizzling veggies will soak up those buttery, herbal flavors beautifully.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Vegetables with Lemon and Parmesan
Return the cooked chicken back to the skillet and pour in the fresh lemon juice. Sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese evenly over everything, then add the chopped parsley. Gently toss the mixture together so the cheese melts slightly and the lemon juice brightens the entire dish. This final step melds all the components into one glorious, flavorful meal.
Step 5: Serve Hot with Extra Parmesan and Lemon Zest
Finish by sprinkling extra Parmesan and fresh lemon zest on top just before serving. These garnishes add a fresh and cheesy pop that makes every bite even more irresistible.
How to Serve Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe
Garnishes
For a beautiful presentation and another layer of flavor, sprinkle more freshly grated Parmesan and a little extra lemon zest over the dish right before serving. Fresh parsley or a few lemon wedges on the side can add a bright, colorful touch that invites everyone to dig in.
Side Dishes
This chicken and veggie skillet pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Light, fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes make perfect beds for soaking up the lemony juices. For a low-carb option, serve it alongside cauliflower rice or a crisp green salad to keep the meal fresh and vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress at your next dinner? Try serving this delicious skillet skillet right in the pan to retain its warmth and rustic charm. Alternatively, pile the chicken and veggies over cooked pasta or polenta to transform it into a heartier dish. For a fun twist, use hollowed-out bell peppers as colorful edible bowls filled with this flavorful mixture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of the Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen as they sit, making for even tastier lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers by placing the cooled chicken and vegetable mixture into a freezer-safe container. Frozen dishes are best enjoyed within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the texture and flavor intact.
Reheating
To warm your leftovers, gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil to revive the texture and avoid drying out. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to distribute heat evenly. Either way, the dish will taste just as delightful as when freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use other types of squash for this recipe?
Absolutely! While zucchini and yellow squash provide a great balance in color and flavor, you can experiment with other varieties like pattypan or even mild summer squash. Just be sure to adjust cooking time since some squash types may be firmer or softer.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t include any gluten-containing ingredients. Just double-check that your Italian seasoning and Parmesan are free from additives if you have severe gluten sensitivities.
Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Fresh garlic can certainly be used and will add a sharper, more pungent flavor. If using fresh, mince 1-2 cloves and sauté them with the vegetables to mellow the harshness and bring out that delightful aroma.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, simply swap the butter with extra olive oil or a dairy-free margarine, and substitute the Parmesan cheese with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative. The dish will still have great flavor with these tweaks.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, doubling or even tripling the ingredients works well. Just use a larger skillet or cook the chicken and vegetables in batches to ensure even cooking and proper browning. This recipe scales nicely without losing any of its charm.
Final Thoughts
There is something genuinely special about the way bright lemon, nutty Parmesan, tender chicken, and fresh zucchini and squash come together in this Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe. It’s a dish that’s both accessible and impressive, perfect for any night you want a meal that feels wholesome yet a little bit indulgent. I hope you have as much fun making and eating it as I do sharing it with friends and family. Give it a try soon, and I bet this will become a beloved staple in your recipe collection!
Print
Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A quick and flavorful Skillet Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini and Squash recipe, perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner. Tender chicken pieces are seasoned and cooked to perfection, then combined with sautéed zucchini and yellow squash, all finished with fresh lemon juice, parmesan cheese, and parsley for a delightful meal in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 1/4 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite size pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 tsp Italian seasoning, divided
- 1 tsp garlic powder, divided
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp lemon zest, plus more for serving
Vegetables & Seasoning
- 2 Tbsp olive oil, divided
- 2 Tbsp butter, divided (or more olive oil if preferred)
- 10 oz. (2 small) zucchini, sliced and halved if wider
- 10 oz. (2 small) yellow squash, sliced and halved if wider
Finishing Touches
- 1/3 cup finely shredded parmesan cheese, or more to taste
- 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season them with salt, pepper, 2 tsp Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon zest.
- Cook Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. Add the sliced zucchini and yellow squash along with remaining 1 tsp Italian seasoning and 1/2 tsp garlic powder. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, about 6-7 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Add fresh lemon juice, parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Toss everything together gently to combine and let the cheese melt slightly.
- Serve: Garnish with additional parmesan cheese and lemon zest as desired. Serve the dish hot for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning and cheese quantity to taste for a stronger or milder flavor.
- Butter can be substituted with extra olive oil for a dairy-free option.
- Zucchini and yellow squash can be swapped or added to taste with other summer squash varieties.
- Serve with crusty bread or over cooked pasta or rice for a heartier meal.
- For a lower fat option, reduce butter or use olive oil only.
