Sizzling Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn Recipe

Weeknight dinners demand simple yet spectacular dishes that zap boredom from the kitchen routine.

This quick garlic butter chicken with zucchini and corn brings robust flavors dancing across your plate in minutes.

Summer produce shines through crisp vegetables paired with tender, golden-brown chicken.

The recipe blends classic ingredients into a harmonious meal that feels both comforting and fresh.

Melted butter coats each ingredient with rich, aromatic goodness that elevates every bite.

Fresh herbs and a touch of seasoning transform this dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

Let this one-pan wonder become your new weeknight hero that delights every hungry palate at the table.

Why Garlic Butter Chicken With Veggies Is a Star Dish

• This recipe delivers bold, zesty tastes in under 30 minutes with minimal prep work and simple ingredients everyone loves.
• Learn professional-level searing and sauce-making skills through an approachable method that transforms basic chicken into a restaurant-worthy meal.
• Adjust heat levels and seasonings effortlessly by playing with paprika, chili powder, and lime juice to match your personal flavor preferences.
• Combine lean protein from chicken with nutrient-packed zucchini and sweet corn for a balanced, wholesome dish that doesn't compromise on taste.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn

• Chicken Breasts: A lean protein that serves as the star of the dish and absorbs the flavorful seasonings.

• Zucchini: A tender summer squash that adds freshness and light texture to the meal.
• Corn Kernels: Sweet kernels that provide a burst of color and natural sweetness to the dish.

• Olive Oil: A cooking oil that helps sear the chicken and vegetables with a smooth, rich base.
• Butter: Creates a luxurious, rich sauce that coats the chicken and vegetables with a silky finish.
• Garlic: Adds a pungent and aromatic flavor that deepens the overall taste profile.
• Lime Juice: Brings a bright, tangy element that cuts through the richness of the butter.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• Smoked Paprika, Chili Powder: Spices that create a warm, smoky crust on the chicken and add depth to the dish.

• Cilantro: A fresh herb that provides a bright, herbaceous note to finish the dish.

How to Make This Flavor-Packed Chicken Skillet

Step 1: Prepare Zucchini

Heat a skillet over medium heat and drizzle olive oil.

Add sliced zucchini with a sprinkle of salt and pepper.

Cook for about 3 minutes, turning once, until golden and slightly soft.

Move zucchini to a separate plate for later.

Step 2: Spice Up The Chicken

Cut chicken breasts into strips.

• Smoked paprika
• Chili powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

These spices will create a mouthwatering golden crust during cooking.

Step 3: Sear The Chicken

In the same skillet, add more olive oil.

Arrange chicken strips in a single layer.

Cook undisturbed for 4 minutes to develop a beautiful golden color.

Flip the strips, add minced garlic, and cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 4: Create Magical Sauce

Reduce heat and squeeze fresh lime juice into the pan.

Stir in butter, allowing it to melt and create a rich, garlicky sauce that beautifully coats the chicken.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

Return cooked zucchini to the skillet.

Add corn kernels.

Stir in remaining butter, ensuring everything is evenly coated.

Sprinkle half the chopped cilantro for a fresh, herbal touch.

Step 6: Final Flavor Adjustment

• Lime juice
• Paprika
• Chili powder

Sprinkle extra chili powder on top for a vibrant color and extra kick.

Pro Tips for Juicy Chicken and Crispy Veggies

• Avoid overcrowding the skillet when cooking zucchini to ensure it gets a beautiful golden color and doesn't become soggy. A single layer helps achieve perfect caramelization.
• Let chicken sit undisturbed during cooking to develop a golden crust. This technique locks in juices and creates a delicious exterior with maximum flavor.
• Use room temperature butter for smoother melting and faster sauce formation. The lime juice adds brightness that cuts through the richness of the butter.
• Adjust spices gradually and taste as you go. Smoked paprika and chili powder provide depth, while lime juice brings a fresh, tangy counterpoint.
• Sprinkle cilantro just before serving to maintain its vibrant color and fresh flavor. Reserve some for garnishing to add a final burst of brightness to the dish.

Storing and Reheating Chicken with Veggies

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days, ensuring the chicken remains fresh and safe to eat.
• Wrap portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Chicken and vegetables can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing significant flavor or texture.
• Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to distribute heat evenly.
• Warm leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent sticking and maintain moisture. Stir gently for 3-4 minutes until heated thoroughly.

Side Ideas for Garlic Butter Chicken Meals

• Elevate Zesty Lime Pairing: Crisp Mexican lager or margarita complements the dish's bright citrus notes and cuts through the rich garlic butter sauce.
• Boost Herbal Refreshment: Sauvignon blanc with grassy undertones matches perfectly with the cilantro and lime, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
• Enhance Spice Balance: Fruity white wine like Riesling softens the chili powder's heat while highlighting the chicken's smoky paprika seasoning.
• Amplify Comfort Combination: Cold craft wheat beer provides a light, refreshing contrast to the hearty garlic butter chicken, cleansing the palate between bites.

Variations to Try With This Chicken and Corn Mix

• Gluten-Free Garlic Butter Chicken: Replace wheat-based seasonings with gluten-free spices and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
• Keto-Friendly Version: Swap corn with low-carb cauliflower or bell peppers to reduce carbohydrate content. Use full-fat butter and increase healthy fat portions to align with ketogenic diet requirements.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute butter with coconut oil or olive oil. Use nutritional yeast or dairy-free herb butter for similar richness and flavor profile without dairy ingredients.
• Vegetarian Transformation: Replace chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, sliced and seasoned identically. Maintain the same cooking technique and spice blend for a protein-packed plant-based meal that preserves the original recipe's zesty character.

FAQs

• What are the key spices used in this recipe?

The key spices are smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. These spices create a flavorful crust on the chicken and add depth to the overall dish.

• Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Yes, you can easily swap chicken with shrimp, turkey breast, or tofu. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the protein is cooked through and gets a nice golden sear.

• How do I know when the chicken is perfectly cooked?

Cook the chicken strips until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The golden sear and cooking time of 4-6 minutes typically ensures the chicken is cooked perfectly.

• Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe has a mild to moderate spice level from chili powder. You can control the heat by adjusting the amount of chili powder or adding more if you prefer a spicier dish.

Garlic Butter Chicken With Zucchini And Corn Recipe

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4.6 from 25 reviews

• Total Time: 21 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent garlic butter chicken dances with sweet corn and tender zucchini in this irresistible summer skillet sensation. Hearty ingredients meld into a delightful one-pan meal that brings Mediterranean warmth directly to your dinner table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breasts, skinless, boneless, sliced
• 2 zucchini, medium, sliced
• 1.5 cups corn kernels, cooked (about 3 corn ears corn on the cob)

Seasonings and Spices:

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Black pepper, freshly ground
• 5 cloves garlic, minced

Oils, Liquids, and Herbs:

• 4 tablespoons butter, divided
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare the zucchini by heating a skillet over medium heat with olive oil. Sauté sliced zucchini with salt and pepper for approximately 3 minutes, turning once, until golden and slightly softened. Remove from pan and set aside.
2. Transform chicken breasts into strips, generously coating with smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful exterior during cooking.
3. Reheat the skillet with additional olive oil, arranging chicken strips in a single layer. Allow to sear undisturbed for 4 minutes until golden brown. Flip the strips and introduce minced garlic, continuing to cook for 2 more minutes.
4. Reduce heat and incorporate freshly squeezed lime juice, then melt two tablespoons of butter into the pan. This creates a luxurious, garlicky sauce that thoroughly coats the chicken.
5. Reintroduce the previously cooked zucchini and add corn kernels to the skillet. Incorporate remaining butter, ensuring even coating. Sprinkle half of the chopped cilantro for a vibrant, herbal touch.
6. Fine-tune the dish’s flavor profile by adjusting with additional lime juice, paprika, or chili powder. Garnish with an extra dusting of chili powder for visual appeal and an extra kick of spice.

Notes

• Enhance zucchini’s texture by patting it dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture and achieve a perfect golden sear.
• Create a versatile dish by substituting chicken with tofu or plant-based protein for a vegetarian-friendly version that maintains the same vibrant flavors.
• Control spice levels by adjusting chili powder and paprika quantities, making the recipe adaptable for mild or heat-loving palates.
• Maximize flavor development by allowing chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking, which helps redistribute juices and keeps the meat tender and succulent.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 11 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg