Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn – One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal

Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn – One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal is a delightful dish that combines the richness of garlic butter with fresh vegetables. This quick recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings. The one-pan approach ensures minimal cleanup while delivering a flavorful meal that pleases both children and adults. Enjoy a restaurant-quality dinner at home in just 30 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This meal comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pan, saving you time and effort.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of garlic, butter, and smoked paprika creates a rich flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Versatile Meal: Easily customize the vegetables or spices to suit your taste preferences or use what’s available in your pantry.
• Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein from chicken and nutritious veggies, this dish is both satisfying and wholesome.

Tools and Preparation

To make Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn efficiently, having the right tools on hand can make a big difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Perfect for searing the chicken evenly while providing enough space to cook all ingredients together.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp blade helps you slice the chicken and vegetables quickly, ensuring uniform cooking.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements of spices and liquids help maintain consistent flavors every time you make this dish.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb chicken breasts (skinless, boneless, sliced)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or more)
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (or more)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• black pepper (freshly ground, to taste)

For the Vegetables

• 2 zucchini (medium, sliced)
• 1.5 cups corn kernels (cooked, about 3 corn ears – corn on the cob)

For Flavoring

• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice (or more)
• 4 tablespoons butter (divided)
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn – One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by slicing the chicken breasts into thin pieces. Chop the zucchini into rounds and gather your corn kernels. Mince the garlic finely.

Step 2: Heat Oil in Skillet

In a large skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Allow it to heat up until shimmering.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the sliced chicken breasts to the hot skillet. Season with smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown on both sides.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Vegetables

Once the chicken is cooked through, push it to one side of the pan. Add minced garlic to the empty side along with sliced zucchini. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until zucchini is tender.

Step 5: Incorporate Corn and Butter

Stir in the cooked corn kernels. Add 3 tablespoons of butter to melt over everything in the skillet. Drizzle with lime juice for added flavor.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat once everything is well combined. Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top before serving warm.

Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn – One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal

Serving Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this dish that will impress your family and guests alike.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the chicken and veggies over fluffy white or brown rice for a filling meal.

With a Side Salad

• Pair this dish with a fresh garden salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the garlic butter.

In Tacos

• Use warm corn tortillas to create delicious tacos filled with chicken, zucchini, and corn for a fun twist.

With Avocado Slices

• Top each serving with fresh avocado slices for added creaminess and healthy fats.

Drizzled with Extra Lime Juice

• A squeeze of lime juice right before serving enhances the flavors and adds brightness to the dish.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn – One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal

Perfecting your Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn is all about technique. Follow these tips for an even more delicious meal.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients – Fresh zucchini and corn elevate the taste. Look for vibrant vegetables at your local market.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cook in batches if necessary. This ensures even cooking and browning of the chicken.

• Adjust Seasonings – Feel free to tweak the spices. Add more smoked paprika or chili powder for extra flavor.

• Use High Heat Initially – Start cooking on high heat to achieve a nice sear on the chicken before lowering it to finish cooking evenly.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn – One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal

To create a well-rounded meal, consider serving Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn alongside these tasty side dishes.

1. Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad tossed with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs makes a nutritious complement.

2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition; try carrots, bell peppers, or asparagus.

3. Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra garlic butter sauce from the chicken.

4. Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that pairs wonderfully with the flavors of this dish.

5. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the richness of the chicken.

6. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast in texture and flavor, enhancing your meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn – One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal from good to great.

• Overcooking the chicken: Chicken breasts can dry out quickly. Always cook until just done, checking for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Not seasoning enough: A bland dish is unappealing. Be generous with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and vegetables.
• Using too much butter: While butter adds flavor, too much can make the dish greasy. Stick to the recommended amount for a balanced taste.
• Skipping the garlic: Garlic is key to this recipe’s flavor profile. Don’t omit it; fresh minced garlic makes all the difference.
• Ignoring cooking times for veggies: Zucchini cooks quickly, so add it at the right time. Overcooked zucchini becomes mushy and loses its texture.
• Not letting leftovers cool properly: To maintain freshness, let leftover Garlic Butter Chicken cool before storing it in containers.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn – One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn – One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, stir occasionally until warmed thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about preparing Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn – One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal.

Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to swap zucchini with bell peppers or broccoli for a different flavor profile.

How can I make this meal spicy?

Add more chili powder or toss in red pepper flakes to increase the heat level according to your preference.

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen corn works well and saves prep time. Just thaw it before adding.

What sides pair well with Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn?

Consider serving it with rice or a simple salad to complement the meal beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn is an appealing weeknight dinner that combines convenience and flavor in one pan. Its versatility allows customization by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful meal that everyone will love!

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Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn – One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal

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Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn is a quick, one-pan meal that brings together tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and sweet corn, all enhanced by a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also family-friendly, making it a great option for gatherings or cozy dinners at home. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a flavorful and satisfying dinner that rivals any restaurant meal. The combination of juicy chicken and vibrant vegetables makes this dish both nutritious and delicious, so you can feel good about your dinner choice.

• Author: Imogen
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb chicken breasts (skinless, boneless, sliced)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or more)
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (or more)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• black pepper (freshly ground, to taste)
• 2 zucchini (medium, sliced)
• 1.5 cups corn kernels (cooked, about 3 corn ears – corn on the cob)
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice (or more)
• 4 tablespoons butter (divided)
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)

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Instructions

1. Slice the chicken breasts into thin pieces and chop the zucchini into rounds.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and season with smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Sear for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
4. Push the chicken to one side of the pan, add minced garlic and zucchini to the other side, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until tender.
5. Stir in cooked corn kernels and add 3 tablespoons of butter to melt over everything. Drizzle with lime juice.
6. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped cilantro before serving warm.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
• Calories: 395
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 280mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 37g
• Cholesterol: 110mg