This Easy Asado Chicken is packed with flavor, thanks to a yummy spice mix and a juicy marinade. It’s paired with sautéed lemon zucchini, making the meal fresh and light!
Honestly, this dish is a winner for busy evenings. Just marinate, cook, and enjoy! Plus, who doesn’t love a colorful plate? It’s like sunshine on a dish! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a juicier option. They require a bit more cooking time but are also super tasty!
Spices: Smoked paprika really gives the chicken that lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika is fine. Consider adding a bit of chili powder for extra kick if you like spice.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is the star for this side. You can swap it with yellow squash or even bell peppers for different colors and flavors. Just adjust cooking times as needed!
Fresh Herbs: I love using cilantro for freshness, but parsley works great as well. If you’re not a fan of fresh herbs, feel free to leave them out; the dish will still taste fabulous!
How Do I Marinate Chicken Properly?
Marinating is a simple step that boosts flavor and tenderness. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix your marinade well so all the spices combine nicely.
- Place the chicken in a shallow dish or zip-top bag to get maximum coverage.
- For tasty results, let it marinate in the fridge. Aim for at least 20 minutes; I usually go for an hour to let those flavors really soak in.
- Take it out of the fridge about 10-15 minutes before cooking so it can come to room temperature. This helps it cook evenly.
Simple and effective! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Asado Chicken with Sauteed Lemon Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Asado Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp fresh chopped cilantro or parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
For the Sauteed Lemon Zucchini:
- 2 medium zucchinis, cut into half-moons or chunks
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 tbsp fresh chopped parsley or cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon slices for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20-30 minutes of prep and cooking time. Just let the chicken marinate for at least 20 minutes (or longer, if you can!), and then it cooks up quickly alongside the zucchini. You’ll be able to enjoy a delicious meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, chili flakes, chopped cilantro (or parsley), lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This will be the flavorful marinade for your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated. Cover and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 20 minutes. If you have time, letting it marinate for an hour is even better for flavor!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it’s nicely browned and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. Sauté the Zucchini:
While the chicken is cooking, heat olive oil in another skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Then, add the zucchini pieces, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Finish the Zucchini:
Once done, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the lemon juice and fresh parsley. This will brighten the flavors beautifully!
6. Serve:
Slice the cooked chicken breasts and plate them alongside the sautéed lemon zucchini. Garnish your dish with lemon slices and a sprinkle of additional herbs if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Enjoy your flavorful and easy Asado Chicken with bright, fresh lemon zucchini! It’s a delightful meal that’s sure to impress!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time, cooking them for about 7-10 minutes on each side, depending on their thickness, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No problem! You can substitute smoked paprika with regular paprika, but consider adding a dash of liquid smoke or extra cumin for a hint of smokiness, if you have it on hand.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. The sautéed zucchini can be prepared ahead as well; just reheat gently in a skillet before serving to maintain its texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken and zucchini in the microwave or skillet to maintain their moisture.
