This Easy Asado Chicken is full of flavor, with spices that make it irresistible. The zesty lemon zucchini adds a refreshing twist and is a great pair!
Cooking this dish makes the kitchen smell amazing, and who doesn’t love a quick meal? I enjoy serving it with rice for a complete dinner. Simple and tasty, just how I like it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe as they cook quickly and stay juicy. You can swap them for thighs if you prefer a richer flavor or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
Zucchini: Zucchini adds a fresh crunch. If you can’t find it, yellow squash works well as a substitute. You can also try bell peppers or asparagus for added variety.
Spices: The blend of cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano really defines the dish. If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can use regular paprika and add a touch of liquid smoke for that flavor.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the cooking. You can use avocado oil or even melted butter if you want a different flavor. Just be cautious with the heat if using butter.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken just right can be tricky. To get perfectly cooked chicken, follow these tips:
- Start with a medium-high heat to sear the chicken, which locks in juices.
- Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, depending on thickness. A meat thermometer is great for checking the internal temperature; it should be 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping it moist.
With these tips, you’ll have tender, flavorful chicken every time!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Zucchini?
Making zucchini tender yet crisp is easy with these steps:
- Slice the zucchini into even pieces to ensure they cook at the same time.
- After cooking garlic in the skillet, add the zucchini and cook without stirring too much. This allows them to get a nice golden color, which enhances flavor.
- Add the lemon juice and zest at the end to keep that fresh flavor intact.
These tips will give you perfectly sautéed zucchini that’s bright and zesty!
Easy Asado Chicken with Zesty Lemon Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Zucchini:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon slices, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25 minutes in total: around 10 minutes for preparation (including marinating the chicken) and about 15 minutes for cooking everything to delicious perfection. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix the oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Rub the chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, covering both sides well. Then, sprinkle the spice mix over the chicken evenly. Set aside for about 10 minutes to marinate. This step enhances the flavor!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and pour in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned and fully cooked (reaching an internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C). When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for a few minutes.
3. Sauté the Zucchini:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for around 30 seconds until you can smell its fragrant aroma. Next, toss in the zucchini slices and sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped parsley or cilantro. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. This adds a fresh, zesty kick!
4. Serve the Dish:
Slice the rested chicken breasts diagonally and arrange them on plates with the sautéed zucchini beside them. Garnish with extra lemon slices and herbs, if you like. This dish is fantastic served warm, and it’s perfect with a side of rice or crusty bread!
Enjoy this delightful combination of smoky chicken and zesty zucchini—it’s satisfying and oh-so-tasty!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! While zucchini works wonderfully, you can substitute it with bell peppers, asparagus, or even broccoli. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as some vegetables may take longer or shorter to sauté.
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No worries! If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika will work just fine. For that smoky flavor, you can add a few drops of liquid smoke or simply skip it altogether; the dish will still be delicious!
Can I Prepare the Chicken Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can marinate the chicken breasts in the spice mixture up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to deepen even more, making for a tastier meal when you’re ready to cook!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any 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 to preserve the chicken’s juiciness. The zucchini can be reheated easily as well, just be cautious not to overcook it again!
