This Easy Asado Chicken packs a punch with its juicy and flavorful marinated chicken, perfect for a family dinner. Pair it with fresh sautéed lemon zucchini for a burst of color and taste!
You can’t go wrong with this dish—it’s simple and delicious! I love how the zucchini adds a bit of crunch and zing. Plus, it makes me feel extra healthy when I add my veggies. 🥒🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are quick to cook and absorb flavors well. You can easily swap them for chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier meat.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds depth, but regular paprika works too. If you’re looking for less spice, skip the chili flakes or opt for a milder pepper instead.
Zucchini: This veggie is great for sautéing! If zucchini isn’t available, yellow squash can be a great substitute. Both will soak up that lemon flavor beautifully.
Vinegar: Red wine vinegar adds a nice tang, but you could also use white wine vinegar or lemon juice for a different twist.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
Marinating the chicken is crucial to infusing it with flavor and moisture. Let the chicken soak in the marinade for at least 20 minutes, but longer is even better—up to 2 hours refrigerated. This also helps tenderize the meat.
- Be sure to use medium-high heat when cooking! This will give you that lovely golden brown without drying it out.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking. It allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist.
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Zucchini?
Cooking zucchini perfectly so it’s tender yet still holds some crunch is all about timing. You want to sauté them quickly over medium heat, stirring often.
- Start by heating olive oil and adding garlic for flavor, but don’t let it burn!
- Add zucchini slices and season right away. Stir occasionally for about 5-7 minutes or until they’re beautifully golden and tender.
- Finish with lemon juice and zest off the heat. This adds brightness without cooking out the flavor.
Enjoy making this delicious and simple meal!
Easy Asado Chicken with Sautéed Lemon Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Asado Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
For the Sautéed Lemon Zucchini:
- 2 medium zucchinis, cut into half-moons or thick slices
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon slices, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook. Altogether, it will take about 30-35 minutes from start to enjoying your meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Start by combining the olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, chili flakes, vinegar, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Whisk everything together to create a flavorful marinade. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl, ensuring they’re well-coated in the marinade. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you want a deeper flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the marinated chicken breasts in the pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re fully cooked and have a beautiful golden brown finish. Once cooked, remove from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. Prepare the Sautéed Lemon Zucchini:
While the chicken is resting, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Then, add the zucchini slices, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for some heat. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Add Lemon Flavor:
Once the zucchini is cooked, take the skillet off the heat and squeeze in the lemon juice, adding the lemon zest as well. Toss everything together so that the zucchini is evenly coated with the bright flavors.
5. Plate and Serve:
Finally, slice the rested chicken breasts into strips. Serve them alongside the sautéed lemon zucchini on a plate or in a bowl. If you want, you can garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and add lemon slices for a nice touch.
Enjoy this flavorful, simple, and healthy Easy Asado Chicken with bright and tangy sautéed lemon zucchini! It’s a perfect meal for any night of the week!
FAQ for Easy Asado Chicken with Sautéed Lemon Zucchini
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to fully thaw it first. The best way to thaw is by leaving it in the refrigerator overnight or putting it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for a couple of hours. Always pat the chicken dry before marinating to ensure the flavors stick!
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just make sure to keep it covered. When you’re ready to cook, add the chicken to the marinade and proceed as usual!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, or in the microwave. If the chicken seems a bit dry, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to help moisten it up.
What Other Vegetables Can I Use with This Dish?
If you want to mix it up, you can substitute zucchini with other veggies like bell peppers, asparagus, or even broccoli. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for tenderness as you cook!
