This Easy Asado Chicken is full of flavor, marinated to perfection, and pairs beautifully with a light lemon zucchini sauté. It’s a delicious way to enjoy a healthy meal!
I love how the bright lemon flavor brings the zucchini to life! Plus, this meal is so easy to make, I feel like a kitchen pro while cooking it. Give it a try—you’ll impress everyone!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are my favorite; they stay juicy and flavorful when cooked. If you prefer, chicken breasts work just as well. For a vegetarian option, try marinating and grilling portobello mushrooms instead!
Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil enhances the flavor of your marinade. If you’re out, you could use avocado oil for a similar taste. Just avoid using oils with strong flavors that may overpower your dish.
Spices: Ground cumin and smoked paprika add a lovely smoky flavor. If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika or even chili powder can work, with the addition of some smoked salt for that extra kick. Experiment to find your preferred blend!
Zucchini: Fresh, firm zucchini is key for this sauté. If zucchini isn’t available, yellow squash or even green bell peppers can substitute nicely, giving you a different but delicious twist.
What’s the Best Way to Marinate Chicken for Flavor?
Marinating chicken is crucial for infusing flavor into your meat. The longer you marinate, the deeper the taste. Here’s how to make it successful:
- Mix the marinade well before adding the chicken, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed.
- Coat all sides of the chicken; this helps the flavors penetrate fully.
- If time allows, marinate for 2 hours in the fridge for the best results, but 20 minutes still gives a great boost in flavor!
How Do You Cook Zucchini So It’s Tender but Not Mushy?
Cooking zucchini can be tricky, as it can turn mushy if cooked too long. Here’s how to keep it crunchy:
- Sauté over medium-high heat to get a nice char and keep it crisp.
- Cook for just 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them tender but still firm!
- Add the lemon juice at the end of cooking for a fresh zing without overcooking the zucchini.
These tips will help make your Easy Asado Chicken and Lemon Zucchini Sauté a hit every time! Happy cooking!
Easy Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp chili powder or cayenne (optional for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp), divided
For the Lemon Zucchini Sauté:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25 minutes of prep time, plus a minimum of 20 minutes to marinate the chicken. If you let it marinate for longer, it enhances the flavor even more! Once everything is prepped, cooking will take around 15 minutes. All together, you can have a delicious meal on the table in about 40-45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Making the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, chili powder (if desired), salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed—this is what will give your chicken that tasty flavor!
2. Marinating the Chicken:
Add the chicken to the marinade, making sure each piece is coated well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate for at least 20 minutes in the fridge. If you have time, leaving it for up to 2 hours will really dial up the flavor. Yum!
3. Cooking the Chicken:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pan. Take the chicken out of the marinade (but don’t rinse it) and carefully place it in the hot skillet. Cook each piece for about 5-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char. When it’s done, remove it from the skillet and keep warm.
4. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. Next, add in the zucchini slices and cook for another 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to be tender yet still crisp; they shouldn’t be mushy!
5. Finishing Touches:
Stir in the remaining tablespoon of lemon juice to give the zucchini a bright flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and let it cook for an additional minute to incorporate the flavors well.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Place your beautifully cooked asado chicken on a plate alongside the lemon zucchini sauté. If you like, sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro on top for a pop of color and freshness. Dig in and enjoy your delicious and colorful meal!
This Easy Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté is sure to become a new favorite. It’s packed with flavor and perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that chicken breasts can cook faster and may require slightly less time in the skillet, so check for doneness around the 5-minute mark for each side.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like heat, add more chili powder or cayenne to the marinade. You can also consider serving it with a spicy salsa or drizzle a bit of sriracha over the finished dish for an extra kick!
What Should I Do with Leftover Chicken and Zucchini?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. Enjoy them in a salad or wrap for a quick meal!
Can I Prepare the Chicken in Advance?
Definitely! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and keep it in the fridge to enhance the flavors. Just ensure you cook it within 24 hours for best results!
These FAQs should help you make the most of your Easy Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté! Enjoy your cooking!
