Imagine coming home after a long day, feeling stressed. Then, you smell something amazing in your kitchen. This creamy garlic butter chicken with zucchini and corn recipe is that comfort. It has tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and sweet corn in a rich garlic butter sauce.
Make your weeknight dinners easy with this one-pan recipe. In about 30 minutes, you can enjoy a meal that tastes great and helps you relax. Each bite is a chance to unwind and enjoy.
Key Takeaways
- This dish is a comforting and delicious option for busy weeknights.
- It features tender chicken and colorful, fresh summer vegetables.
- Minimal cleanup makes it a practical choice for your kitchen.
- Ready in approximately 30 minutes, ideal for your schedule.
- Perfect for family dinners or a cozy meal for yourself.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This garlic butter chicken skillet is a real winner. It’s not just tasty, but also super easy to make. You’ll love how it combines savory chicken with fresh summer veggies in one dish. Here’s why it’s going to be a favorite in your kitchen.
One‑pan, minimal cleanup dinner
This recipe is all about simplicity. It’s a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. Cook the chicken and veggies together in one skillet. This way, all the flavors mix together perfectly.
Juicy chicken with sweet summer vegetables
The dish features juicy chicken paired with sweet summer veggies. This mix of flavors makes every bite a delight. You’ll find yourself coming back for more of this tasty combo.
Ready in ~30 minutes—ideal for busy weeknights
Got a busy weeknight schedule? This recipe is your savior. In just 30 minutes, you can have a healthy, tasty meal ready. It’s perfect for those nights when you need something comforting but quick.
Garlic Butter Chicken With Zucchini And Corn
If you’re craving something quick and tasty, try this garlic butter chicken with zucchini and corn. It’s made with homemade garlic butter sauce. This sauce makes the chicken and veggies taste amazing together. Let’s see what you need and how to make this dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1.5 cups cooked corn kernels (about 3 corn ears)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or more to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (or more to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice (or more)
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
1. Heat a large, high-sided cast-iron skillet over medium heat for 1 minute. Add olive oil and sliced zucchini. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 3 minutes, flipping the veggies once. Transfer the cooked zucchini to a plate.
2. Slice the chicken breasts into strips. Season with smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. In the same skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken in one layer and cook undisturbed for about 4 minutes. Flip the chicken, add minced garlic, and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Reduce heat to low, add lime juice and 2 tablespoons of butter. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently until the chicken is cooked through and the garlic has softened.
4. Combine the cooked zucchini and corn with the chicken in the skillet. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and melt on low heat, stirring until the butter coats the chicken and veggies evenly. This should take a couple of minutes. Remove from heat.
5. Stir in half of the chopped cilantro. Season with more salt, smoked paprika, and chili powder to taste. Add extra lime juice if desired.
6. When serving, top with the remaining cilantro. For presentation, sprinkle a small amount of chili powder over the dish if desired.
Notes:
For added flavor, you can sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the dish before serving.
Pro Tips & Variations
Make your easy one-pan garlic butter chicken recipe even better with these tips. Try different chicken cuts or add veggies for a fresh twist. You can also experiment with cheese and spices for extra flavor.
Chicken substitution: Use thighs or tenders for more juiciness
Swap chicken breasts with thighs or tenders for juicier meat. These cuts stay moist during cooking. This makes your dish even more delicious.
Veggie swaps: Yellow squash, tomatoes, bell peppers, or even ravioli for a heartier option
Bring in seasonal veggies like yellow squash, tomatoes, or bell peppers. They pair well with the garlic butter sauce. For a fuller meal, add ravioli to your pan.
Cheese topping: Grated Parmesan, feta, or cotija for a savory twist
Adding cheese like Parmesan, feta, or cotija adds flavor. It gives your dish a savory taste that melts in perfectly.
Spice it up: Add extra chili powder or red pepper flakes
For a spicy kick, add chili powder or red pepper flakes. This simple trick makes your dish more exciting.
Customization | Suggested Alternatives | Flavor Addition |
---|---|---|
Chicken Substitution | Thighs, Tenders | Moist & Juicy |
Veggie Swaps | Yellow Squash, Tomatoes, Bell Peppers, Ravioli | Seasonal Flavor |
Cheese Topping | Grated Parmesan, Feta, Cotija | Savory Twist |
Spice it Up | Chili Powder, Red Pepper Flakes | Exciting Heat |
Make‑Ahead & Storage Tips
Keeping your garlic butter chicken leftovers fresh is easy. Use the right storage methods for make-ahead meals all week.
Store in airtight container in fridge for up to 4 days; reheat gently in skillet
For fresh garlic butter chicken, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays good for up to four days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over medium heat.
This keeps the chicken juicy and the flavors bright.
Freeze for up to 2 months (thaw before reheating)
Freezing is great for saving garlic butter chicken. It can stay frozen for up to two months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
This way, you can enjoy your meal whenever you want, without losing its quality.
Nutrition & Timing
Efficiency is key when it comes to a nutritious garlic butter chicken meal. This dish lets you enjoy a great dinner without spending hours cooking. In just about 30 minutes, you can make a meal for four. It’s perfect for busy schedules, offering a balanced meal that’s satisfying.
Process | Time |
---|---|
Preparation | 15 minutes |
Cooking | 15 minutes |
Total Time | 30 minutes |
Yield | 4 servings |
Calories per Serving | ~350–420 kcal (depending on fat/butter choice) |
Each bite of this dish is packed with protein, vitamins, and fiber. The chicken, zucchini, and corn make it a well-rounded meal. It ensures you and your family enjoy a satisfying and nutritious dinner.
What to Serve With It
Looking for the perfect sides for your Garlic Butter Chicken With Zucchini and Corn? You can make your meal even better. Choose side dishes that match and boost the flavors. Pair this tasty chicken with light, refreshing options for a well-rounded plate.
Pair with steamed rice, quinoa, crusty bread, or a crisp side salad
Steamed rice or fluffy quinoa are great for soaking up the garlic butter sauce. Crusty bread is perfect for enjoying every bit of flavor. For a fresh touch, a crisp side salad adds color and crunch.
Try Corn Tomato Salad, Arugula with lemon vinaigrette, or Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Here are some complementary salad recipes that go well with your Garlic Butter Chicken:
- Corn Tomato Salad: A light, zesty option that adds sweetness and acidity.
- Arugula with Lemon Vinaigrette: This salad offers a fresh, peppery kick that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the chicken.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: For those craving comfort food, these creamy potatoes provide the ultimate buttery indulgence.
These side dishes for garlic butter chicken will not only enhance the taste but will also make your meal appealing and satisfying.
Side Dish | Description |
---|---|
Steamed Rice | A neutral grain that acts as a base to soak up flavors. |
Quinoa | A nutty, gluten-free grain loaded with protein and fiber. |
Crusty Bread | Perfect for sopping up the garlic butter sauce. |
Corn Tomato Salad | A refreshing mix of sweet corn and juicy tomatoes. |
Arugula with Lemon Vinaigrette | A bright, peppery salad that balances richness. |
Garlic Mashed Potatoes | Creamy and buttery—comfort food at its best. |
Conclusion
The Garlic Butter Chicken With Zucchini And Corn recipe is a top pick for your next family dinner. It’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you’re short on time.
This recipe is also a winner because it’s a one-pan meal. This means less cleanup for you. It’s a big plus when you’re cooking for your family.
This dish is not just tasty; it’s also easy to customize. You can add your own twist with different toppings. It’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it a great choice for a quick, satisfying meal.
Craving more easy skillet meals? Try our savory One-Pot Cajun Chicken and Veggie Skillet or flavorful Balsamic Chicken with Roasted Veggies. If you’re all about garlic like we are, don’t miss our classic Garlic Butter Chicken or comforting Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes. These dishes are perfect complements to your table.

Garlic Butter Chicken With Zucchini And Corn
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 medium zucchinis sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1.5 cups cooked corn kernels about 3 corn ears
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder or more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon salt or to taste
- Black pepper freshly ground, to taste
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice or more
- 4 tablespoons butter divided
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro chopped
Instructions
- Heat a large, high-sided cast-iron skillet over medium heat for 1 minute. Add olive oil and sliced zucchini. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 3 minutes, flipping the veggies once. Transfer the cooked zucchini to a plate.
- Slice the chicken breasts into strips. Season with smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
- In the same skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken in one layer and cook undisturbed for about 4 minutes. Flip the chicken, add minced garlic, and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Reduce heat to low, add lime juice and 2 tablespoons of butter. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently until the chicken is cooked through and the garlic has softened.
- Combine the cooked zucchini and corn with the chicken in the skillet. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and melt on low heat, stirring until the butter coats the chicken and veggies evenly. This should take a couple of minutes. Remove from heat.
- Stir in half of the chopped cilantro. Season with more salt, smoked paprika, and chili powder to taste. Add extra lime juice if desired.
- When serving, top with the remaining cilantro. For presentation, sprinkle a small amount of chili powder over the dish if desired.
Notes
For added flavor, you can sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the dish before serving.
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