If you are searching for a delightful, flavor-packed dinner that comes together quickly, the Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn Recipe is an absolute winner. This dish showcases tender chicken breasts sizzling in rich garlic butter, paired beautifully with fresh zucchini and sweet corn, creating a comforting yet vibrant meal. It’s the perfect harmony of buttery goodness and fresh vegetable flavors that never fails to impress whether it’s a weekday dinner or a casual weekend feast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn Recipe plays a distinct role, blending together to create a dish that’s irresistibly juicy, buttery, and fresh. The simplicity of these staples means you’ll spend less time shopping and more time savoring deliciousness.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These are the star protein, tender and quick to cook, absorbing the garlic butter flavor beautifully.
- 4 tablespoons garlic butter: This infuses the whole dish with rich, savory depth and a subtle sweetness from the garlic.
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced: They add a fresh, slightly crisp texture and a subtle earthiness that balances the richness of the butter.
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen): Sweet corn kernels provide pops of sweetness and vibrant color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the natural flavors.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a pop of green and a fresh herbal note to brighten the plate.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Garlic Butter
Start by warming a large skillet over medium heat and melting the garlic butter until it’s fragrant and shimmering. This step is crucial as it sets the stage with that irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen and coats the chicken in luscious flavor.
Step 2: Season and Add the Chicken
Season your chicken breasts generously on both sides with salt and pepper. Then, place them in the skillet with the hot garlic butter. This straightforward seasoning enhances the natural flavor of the chicken while letting the butter and garlic shine.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Allow the chicken to cook undisturbed for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side. This ensures a beautiful golden crust forms, sealing in juices so each bite is tender and moist.
Step 4: Remove the Chicken
Once cooked through, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside. Resting the chicken a moment helps maintain its juiciness and prepares the skillet for the vegetables.
Step 5: Cook the Zucchini and Corn
In the same skillet, add the sliced zucchini and corn. The remaining garlic butter and chicken juices lend incredible flavor to the vegetables as they soften and become tender without losing their vibrant colors.
Step 6: Combine Chicken with Vegetables
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them among the zucchini and corn. Give everything a gentle toss or spoon the buttery juices over the top so the flavors mingle beautifully.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Just before plating, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish to add brightness and an inviting freshness. Now your Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn Recipe is ready to wow your taste buds!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is a classic way to brighten up the look and taste of this dish, adding a subtle hint of earthiness. If you’re feeling adventurous, a little grated lemon zest can lift the flavors even more with a citrus twist.
Side Dishes
This savory Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn Recipe pairs wonderfully with light sides like fluffy quinoa, buttery mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad to keep the meal balanced and satisfying. Grilled bread also makes a great accompaniment to mop up any extra buttery sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For an attractive presentation, plate the chicken neatly on a bed of the zucchini and corn mixture. Layering the vegetables under the chicken creates a vibrant contrast of colors that is as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate. Alternatively, slice the chicken and fan it over the veggies for a shareable centerpiece at your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow any leftover Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn Recipe to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator and consume within 3 to 4 days for the best quality and taste.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you’d like to keep it longer. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. It’s best eaten within 2 months of freezing.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low to medium heat to keep the chicken moist and vegetables tender. Alternatively, you can warm portions in the microwave, covered to retain moisture, stirring occasionally for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work wonderfully in this recipe and tend to be even moister and more flavorful. Just adjust cooking time slightly to make sure they’re cooked through.
Is it better to use fresh or frozen corn?
Both fresh and frozen corn work well here. Fresh corn offers a juicier bite while frozen corn provides convenience without sacrificing much flavor.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, simply substitute the garlic butter with a dairy-free butter or use olive oil infused with garlic to maintain that rich, buttery taste without dairy.
How long does it take to cook this dish?
From start to finish, it takes roughly 30 minutes — 10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for cooking, making it an excellent weeknight meal.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or green beans to add variety and extra nutrition to your Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn Recipe.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting and satisfying about the Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn Recipe. It’s easy to prepare yet packed with flavor, making it a go-to dinner that feels both homey and special. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with its buttery, garlicky goodness, perfectly balanced by fresh veggies. This dish is sure to become one of your favorite weeknight meals to share with family and friends!
Print
Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn is a simple, flavorful one-skillet meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender chicken breasts are cooked in rich garlic butter and paired with sautéed zucchini and sweet corn, creating a deliciously balanced dish that’s both comforting and nutritious.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
Others
- 4 tablespoons garlic butter
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat garlic butter: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the garlic butter, allowing it to melt and become fragrant.
- Season chicken: Season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts evenly with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor.
- Cook chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, ensuring they are fully cooked and have a nice golden sear.
- Remove chicken: Take the cooked chicken out of the skillet and set aside to rest while you prepare the vegetables.
- Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced zucchini and corn. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Combine ingredients: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, mixing them gently with the sautéed zucchini and corn to combine the flavors.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish for a burst of color and freshness before serving it hot.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen corn depending on availability; if frozen, thaw before cooking.
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Can be served with rice or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and consumed within 2 days.
