This Garlic Butter Chicken is packed with flavor and perfectly cooked zucchini and sweet corn. It’s a quick, tasty one-pan meal that makes weeknight dinners a breeze!
You can warm up your kitchen with this comforting dish that’s such a crowd-pleaser. I love how the butter mixes with the garlic to give everything a rich taste—it’s hard to resist seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts provide lean protein. If you prefer dark meat, use chicken thighs instead for a juicier result. Also, leftover roasted chicken can work well if you’re in a hurry.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is great for absorbing flavors and adding color. If zucchinis aren’t available, you can swap them with yellow squash or bell peppers.
Sweet Corn: Both fresh and frozen corn work well. Fresh corn adds a crisp texture, but frozen is super convenient and still tasty. You can also use canned corn—just drain it well before adding.
Butter: While unsalted butter gives control over salt levels, you can use coconut oil or a plant-based butter if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
How Do You Achieve the Perfectly Golden Chicken?
Cooking chicken to achieve that golden brown crust requires a few steps! Start by ensuring your skillet is hot enough. Here’s how:
- Heat your skillet on medium-high before adding oil and half the butter.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook pieces in batches if necessary.
- Let the chicken cook undisturbed for the first few minutes—they’ll develop that golden color.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) inside for safety.
This method not only gives you flavorful chicken but also leaves tasty bits in the pan for the vegetables to soak up later!
Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Sweet Corn
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
For the Veggies:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium zucchinis, cut into half-moons
- 1 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
For Extra Flavor:
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Juice of half a lemon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 30 minutes to prepare, including cooking time. It’s a quick and easy recipe that fits perfectly into busy weeknight dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously on both sides with salt and pepper. This will add great flavor right from the start!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 2 tablespoons of butter. Let it melt and foam, then add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic and Vegetables:
Next, lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the zucchini half-moons and sweet corn. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the veggies are tender but still have a nice crunch!
4. Season the Veggies:
Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes (if using) and your choice of dried thyme or Italian seasoning. Give everything a good stir to combine the flavors well.
5. Combine and Finish:
Now, it’s time to return the chicken to the skillet. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the chicken and veggies, and let everything cook together for another 1-2 minutes to meld those delicious flavors.
6. Plate and Serve:
To finish, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful garlic butter chicken with zucchini and sweet corn!
If you’d like, pair it with rice or a side salad for a wholesome meal. Enjoy!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be juicier and more flavorful. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few extra minutes to cook through.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Garlic?
No worries! You can use garlic powder as a substitute. About 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder equals one clove of garlic, so adjust to your taste!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the chicken and veggies a day ahead. Cook them fresh just before serving. If you make leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How Can I Reheat Leftovers?
The best way to reheat is gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to keep it moist. You can also use the microwave; just cover the dish and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
