Lemon Herb Chicken with Spring Vegetables

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Fancy a chicken asparagus zucchini recipe that's both healthy and delicious? Honestly, who doesn't? This lemon herb chicken recipe is so good, it might just become your new go-to!

Brief Overview

This spring vegetable recipe is a celebration of fresh flavours. It is an easy chicken dinner recipe that comes together quickly.

Expect it to take about 35 minutes from start to finish. This recipe makes 4 servings, perfect for a family meal.

Main Benefits

This healthy chicken recipe is packed with protein and nutrients. It is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.

What makes this chicken and vegetable skillet special? It's the bright, fresh flavours and the ease of preparation. You know? The taste is amazing, is also gluten-free chicken recipe and low-carb chicken dinner .

Okay, let's get this cooking! Are you tired of bland dinners? This chicken, asparagus, and zucchini dish is the antidote! Trust me, this is a pan seared chicken breast recipe you'll want to try again and again.

This 30 minute chicken recipe is not just quick, it's versatile. You can easily adapt it to suit your taste.

Considering we're aiming for a well rounded set of , this recipe delivers on flavour, speed, and health. Let's get cracking!

Ingredients & Equipment

Okay, let's get this cooking! So, you want to try our chicken asparagus zucchini recipe ? Good on ya! This recipe is about simple, fresh ingredients.

It is also about minimum fuss. Let's dive into what you need.

Main Ingredients: The Stars of the Show

Here’s the breakdown for the lemon herb chicken recipe :

• Chicken breasts: You'll need 4 boneless, skinless ones, about 6 oz/170g each. Look for chicken that is pink and firm. Avoid anything pale or slimy. Honestly, good chicken makes all the difference!
• Olive oil: We're using 1 tablespoon (15 ml) for the chicken. Plus another 1 tablespoon (15 ml) for the veggies. Extra virgin is a great idea.
• Lemon juice: A zesty 1 tablespoon (15 ml) gives that pop. Freshly squeezed is best, of course.
• Italian herbs: 1 teaspoon (5 ml) dried Italian herb blend. Can’t go wrong with a classic mix!
• Garlic powder: Half a teaspoon. That is 2.5 ml for a bit of background flavour.
• Asparagus: 1 pound (450g) asparagus spears, trimmed. Snap off the tough ends. We like them snappy and bright green!
• Zucchini: 2 medium zucchini, halved and sliced. Around 400g in total.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced. 'Cause who doesn't love garlic.
• Chicken broth or white wine: ¼ cup (60 ml) to deglaze the pan. White wine adds that somethin' somethin'.
• Lemon zest: Fresh from one lemon. Adds that bright punch of flavour.
• Fresh Parsley: Two tablespoons chopped up. About 30 ml for a bit of freshness.
• Salt and pepper, to taste. Because, duh .
• Red pepper flakes (optional). A pinch if you're feeling cheeky!

This easy chicken dinner recipe ticks all boxes.

Seasoning Notes: Flavour Town, Population: You!

The key here is fresh flavours. The essential spice combinations of lemon, garlic, and herbs make the dish sing. For a quick sub, use a ready-made Italian seasoning blend.

It's not quite the same but it is still great. Play around with it. Want a flavor enhancers and aromatics ?.

Throw in a bay leaf while the veggies cook, and then fish it out.

This a great healthy chicken recipes .

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple, Sweetheart

You really don't need much for this chicken and vegetable skillet.

• Large skillet: Non-stick is your friend.
• Cutting board & Knife: For choppin', slicin' and dicin'.
• Citrus zester or microplane: For the lemon zest.
• Measuring cups & spoons.
• Meat thermometer: Because nobody wants dodgy chicken. Aim for 165° F/ 74° C !

A frying pan can do double duty if you do not have a skillet. Honestly, this pan seared chicken breast recipe is all about convenience.

Let's get cracking! This 30 minute chicken recipe is a great way to save time in the kitchen. Also this gluten-free chicken recipe is amazing!

Lemon Herb Chicken: The Easy Cooking Method

Okay, let's get this cooking! Honestly, this Lemon Herb Chicken Asparagus Zucchini Recipe is so simple. It's almost embarrassing. It's one of those easy chicken dinner recipes that makes you look like a total rockstar.

Prep Steps for a Stress Free Meal

Essential Mise en Place: Get everything chopped. Chop your zucchini. Snap the woody ends off the asparagus. Measure out your spices.

This time saving organization tip will make cooking a breeze. I always say, a tidy space equals a tidy mind and a tasty meal!

Safety First : Watch out for hot oil. It's like lava, only tastier.

The step-by-step Process for Our Chicken and Vegetable Skillet

1. Marinate the Chicken : Mix oil, lemon, and herbs. Rub it on the chicken. Let it sit for 10 minutes .
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat oil in your skillet. Cook chicken for 5- 7 minutes per side . Internal temp should be 165° F/ 74° C . My pan seared chicken breast recipe always starts here!
3. Sauté the Veggies: Add asparagus and zucchini to the skillet. Sauté for 5- 7 minutes . They should be crisp tender.
4. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in broth or white wine. Scrape up those brown bits. This is where all the flavour lives!.
5. Finish the Sauce: Add lemon zest, parsley, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute .

Pro Tips for Restaurant Quality Chicken

Don't Overcrowd the Pan . Seriously, it's a game changer. If you're making this for a crowd, work in batches to ensure proper browning and even cooking! This goes for both the chicken and veggies! No mushy veg, please!

Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest before slicing it. It keeps it juicy. I wait 5 minutes .

Spice it up : For a kick, add red pepper flakes.

Honestly, this healthy chicken recipe is such a winner. It’s gluten-free chicken recipe and low-carb chicken dinner. Serve it alongside quinoa or rice.

It’s a complete meal that takes about 30 minute chicken recipe. It's become a staple in our house. Try it this week.

You won't regret it! Let's get cracking!

Recipe Notes: Elevating Your Chicken Asparagus Zucchini Recipe

Okay, let's get this cooking! You've got the basics for this amazing lemon herb chicken recipe , but here are a few tips to really nail it.

This chicken asparagus zucchini recipe is about to become your new favourite.

Serving Suggestions: Plating and Presentation

Honestly, presentation matters! Plating your chicken and vegetable skillet beautifully makes it taste even better. Arrange the sliced chicken artfully over the vibrant green veggies.

I like to add a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a lemon wedge on the side. For a bit of fancy, swirl a small amount of balsamic glaze on the plate.

Complement it with a crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc. Or, for a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with a lemon twist.

Storage Tips: Keeping It Fresh

Refrigerate any leftovers of this healthy chicken recipe in an airtight container for up to 3 days. I find it's great for lunch the next day! Freezing isn't really ideal for the vegetables as they can get a bit mushy.

Reheating is best done in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Ensure the chicken reaches a temperature of 165° F ( 74° C) .

Variations: Tweak It To Your Taste

Need a gluten-free chicken recipe or a low-carb chicken dinner ? This recipe is naturally gluten-free. For a keto friendly twist, increase the amount of olive oil used.

Also, consider adding a side of cauliflower rice. If you want seasonal flair, swap the asparagus for sugar snap peas in the early summer.

Try butternut squash for a late autumn twist!

Nutrition Basics: Goodness Inside

This chicken asparagus zucchini recipe is packed with protein. Also, it has vitamins from the veggies, and healthy fats from the olive oil.

It is a complete meal clocking in at around 280 calories per serving. Asparagus is a great source of fiber, so it fills you up.

This pan seared chicken breast recipe is a winner for anyone watching their waistline.

We all know that eating right can make a big difference in how we feel. Studies show that nutrient rich foods are linked to better mood and energy levels.

Now that's something to get excited about.

So, there you have it. With these notes, your chicken asparagus zucchini recipe is bound to be a success! Don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with it. Let's get cracking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this chicken asparagus zucchini recipe ahead of time? I'm a busy bee, you know!

You can certainly prep some of the ingredients in advance to save time! Chop the vegetables and mix the marinade for the chicken ahead of time. However, it's best to cook the chicken and vegetables fresh for the best texture and flavor.

If you must cook it in advance, store the chicken and vegetables separately and gently reheat before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy nobody wants a soggy bottom!

What's the best way to store leftovers of this chicken asparagus zucchini dish?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the vegetables might soften a bit upon refrigeration. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. A little splash of chicken broth or water during reheating can help to rehydrate the dish.

I don’t have asparagus. Can I substitute it with anything else in this chicken asparagus zucchini recipe?

Absolutely! If you're missing asparagus, green beans or broccoli florets make excellent substitutes in this chicken asparagus zucchini recipe. Both have a similar cooking time and will provide a nice, crisp tender texture. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they're cooked to your liking.

My chicken always comes out dry! Any tips for keeping it juicy when making this chicken asparagus zucchini?

Dry chicken is a common woe! First, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for even cooking. Don’t overcook the chicken use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Resting the chicken for a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful piece of chicken think of it as giving the chicken a little spa break!

Is this chicken asparagus zucchini recipe healthy? I'm trying to eat a bit healthier, you see.

Yes, this recipe is a great option for a healthy meal! It's packed with lean protein from the chicken and plenty of vitamins and fiber from the asparagus and zucchini. It's relatively low in carbohydrates and fat, especially if you use olive oil sparingly and serve it with a lighter side dish.

For an extra healthy twist, consider using brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice. A proper balanced meal, innit?