This Easy Asado Chicken is packed with flavor from spices that dance on your taste buds! It’s juicy and perfect for any day of the week.
Add a side of sautéed lemon zucchini, and you have a fresh and zesty dish that’s hard to resist. I love how quick it all comes together—you’ll feel like a kitchen pro!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless makes for easy cooking and slicing. If you don’t have chicken breasts, thighs work well too, just adjust the cooking time as they may take a little longer.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a nice depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or chili powder can be used, but the smoky flavor might be less pronounced.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis are essential for this dish. If zucchinis aren’t available, try using yellow squash or bell peppers for a similar texture but different flavor.
Red Pepper Flakes: These add a nice kick! If you prefer milder flavors, just skip them, or substitute with some black pepper for warmth.
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Juicy?
The key to juicy chicken is not overcooking it. Use medium-high heat and let the chicken cook without moving it too much. This gives it a nice golden crust and seals in moisture.
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken.
- Cook it for 5-6 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Use a meat thermometer to check; it should be 165°F (75°C).
- Let it rest a few minutes after cooking this helps the juices redistribute, so the chicken stays juicy when sliced.
How Can You Make the Zucchini Tender Without Overcooking?
To achieve tender yet slightly crispy zucchini, you need to focus on the sautéing process. Here’s what I recommend:
- Heat the oil and garlic first to infuse flavor before adding zucchini.
- Cook the zucchini in a single layer for even cooking. Stir occasionally to allow for caramelization.
- Check doneness at around 6-8 minutes; you want them tender but still slightly firm.
With these tips and insights, you can make a delicious meal that shines with flavor and freshness! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Asado Chicken with Sauteed Lemon Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Asado Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
For the Sauteed Lemon Zucchini:
- 2 medium zucchinis, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15-20 minutes to cook. You’ll have a scrumptious dinner ready in about 30-35 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by mixing the smoked paprika, garlic powder, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Once combined, rub this spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated for maximum flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until the chicken is cooked through with a nice golden brown crust. When done, remove from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, slice the chicken into pieces.
3. Sauté the Zucchini:
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Next, toss in the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This will infuse the oil with delicious garlic flavor.
4. Cook the Zucchini:
Add the zucchini chunks to the skillet. Stir occasionally, cooking them until they are tender and caramelized in spots, which should take around 6-8 minutes. Make sure to keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
5. Add Lemon and Season:
Once the zucchini is cooked to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the zucchini, and season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro for added color and flavor.
6. Serve:
Now it’s time to serve! Plate the sliced chicken alongside the sautéed lemon zucchini. Add some lemon slices for extra zing and garnish with more fresh herbs, if desired.
Enjoy your flavorful and easy Asado Chicken with bright and fresh lemon zucchini!
FAQ: Easy Asado Chicken with Sauteed Lemon Zucchini
Can I Substitute Chicken Thighs for Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitution and will give you juicier results. Just be mindful that they may take a bit longer to cook, so check for doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F or 75°C).
What Can I Use Instead of Zucchini?
If you don’t have zucchini on hand, you can substitute with yellow squash, asparagus, or bell peppers. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the vegetable chosen.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or olive oil to maintain moisture.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as all the spices you use are free from gluten. Just double-check labels when sourcing your ingredients, especially pre-mixed spices.
