Easy Asado Chicken with Sauteed Lemon Zucchini

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken: I love using boneless, skinless thighs because they stay juicy and tender. If you prefer white meat, go for breasts. For a different protein, try using pork or tofu for a varied texture!

Smoked Paprika: This gives the chicken a rich flavor. If you can’t find smoked, regular paprika or a bit of cayenne can work too for a little heat without the smokiness!

Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is light and holds up well in cooking. For variety, yellow squash makes a great substitute, or you could even use asparagus as another option.

Lemon: The juice and zest add brightness. If you’re out of lemon, lime juice works as a nice alternative for that tangy flavor.

How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?

Cooking chicken properly is essential for great texture. Here’s my foolproof method:

• Before cooking, pat the chicken dry to help it brown nicely.
• Keep the skillet hot enough to create a sear, but not so hot that the outside burns before the inside cooks.
• Use a meat thermometer if unsure—the internal temp should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.

Resting the chicken for a few minutes after cooking lets the juices redistribute, keeping it tender. Don’t skip this step!

Easy Asado Chicken with Sauteed Lemon Zucchini

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Asado Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Juice of 1/2 lemon

For the Sauteed Lemon Zucchini:

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil (optional, for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delightful dish takes roughly 30 minutes to prepare and cook! You’ll need about 15 minutes for marinating the chicken and then about 15 minutes to cook everything up. Quick and delicious—perfect for any day of the week!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken:

Start by mixing together the smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, chili powder (if you want a little heat!), salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub this seasoning mix evenly over the chicken pieces. Next, drizzle with olive oil and the juice of half a lemon. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes for the best flavor.

2. Cook the Chicken:

Once the chicken is marinated, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook it for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it’s cooked through and golden brown on the outside. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm while you prepare the zucchini.

3. Prepare the Zucchini:

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add either olive oil or butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until it gets fragrant—this should take about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn the garlic!

4. Add Zucchini:

Now, add the sliced zucchini to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender but still slightly crisp, which should take around 5 minutes. You want them to have a nice light crunch.

5. Season and Finish:

Once the zucchini is ready, stir in the lemon juice and zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook everything together for another 1-2 minutes until heated through.

6. Serve:

It’s time to plate your meal! Arrange the asado chicken alongside the sautéed lemon zucchini on your favorite dish. You can garnish with some fresh parsley or basil if you like. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work just fine. Just keep in mind that they can dry out more easily than thighs, so be careful not to overcook them. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Zucchini?

Yes, feel free to customize the sautéed veggies! Bell peppers, yellow squash, or even some cherry tomatoes would be delicious additions. Just make sure to chop them into similar sizes for even cooking.

How Can 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 stove. You might want to add a splash of water or olive oil to the zucchini to keep it from drying out!

Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?

Definitely! marinating overnight allows the flavors to penetrate deeply for even more delicious chicken. Just be sure to keep it covered and refrigerated!