Description
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn is a quick and flavorful one-pan dish perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner. Tender chicken breasts are seasoned with smoked paprika and chili powder, then sautéed in a buttery garlic sauce alongside fresh zucchini and sweet corn. The addition of lime juice adds a bright zest, while fresh cilantro garnish provides a fresh finish. Ready in just 30 minutes, this meal is both vibrant and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
Cooking Fats and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Zucchini: Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced zucchini and sauté until tender and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes. Remove zucchini from skillet and set aside.
- Cook Chicken: In the same skillet, place the sliced chicken breasts and season evenly with smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Cook on medium heat for about 5 minutes on one side until golden brown and partially cooked through.
- Add Garlic, Lime, Butter: Flip the chicken pieces over, reduce heat to low-medium. Add minced garlic, lime juice, and butter to the skillet. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the butter to melt into a flavorful sauce.
- Combine Vegetables and Corn: Return the cooked zucchini to the skillet along with the corn kernels. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly and cook for an additional 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top, and serve immediately while hot and flavorful.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen corn kernels based on availability; if using frozen, thaw before cooking.
- Adjust seasoning levels to your preference, especially the chili powder for heat.
- Substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier option if desired.
- Serve with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce.
- Cast-iron skillet helps achieve a nice sear and heat retention but a regular non-stick skillet can also be used.
