Easy Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté Recipe
If you’re on a mission to bring bold, south-of-the-border flavor to your dinner table but want the simplicity of a weeknight meal, look no further than Easy Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté. Tender chicken thighs marinated in a smoky, garlicky blend and paired with zippy, lemony zucchini create a beautiful harmony of textures and tastes—making this dish a true showstopper with minimal effort. Savory, citrusy, and subtly spiced, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for both family and friends alike!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Easy Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté keeps things delightfully straightforward, relying on a handful of pantry staples and fresh veggies to deliver big on both flavor and color. Each item here serves a purpose, coming together to create a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts.
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: Rich, juicy, and nearly foolproof—these hold up perfectly to searing and soak up those asado flavors.
- Olive oil: Lends richness and helps marry all the spices in the marinade, while also giving a lovely sauté to your zucchini.
- Garlic: Provides a sharp, robust note that’s essential to both the chicken and the vegetable side.
- Smoked paprika: Adds irresistible smoky warmth, giving the chicken its signature asado character.
- Ground cumin: Brings earthy depth and a gentle, savory heat to the marinade.
- Dried oregano: Lends a subtle hint of herbal freshness that lifts the whole dish.
- Salt and black pepper: Must-have basics, enhancing every other flavor here.
- Balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar: Offers a tangy pop and rounds out the marinade beautifully.
- Lime (or lemon) juice: Brings a bright, zesty finish—essential for that “wow” factor in the chicken.
- Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional): A final spark of green and freshness for garnish.
- Zucchini: Sliced into cheerful half-moons, zucchini makes for a juicy, tender, and subtly sweet side.
- More olive oil: A splash for quickly sautéing the zucchini.
- More garlic: Doubles down on the savory note, helping the veggies play well with the chicken.
- Lemon juice and zest: Infuse the zucchini with a burst of brightness and aroma.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): If you like a subtle kick, this little sprinkle wakes up your palate.
- Fresh parsley or basil (optional): The garnish brings color and an extra hint of herby freshness.
How to Make Easy Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté
Step 1: Make the Asado Chicken Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, your choice of vinegar, and a squeeze of lime or lemon juice. This marinade is super aromatic—give it a good stir and let those flavors mingle! You’ll instantly notice the bold, zesty aroma.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Massage the marinade generously onto the chicken thighs, taking care to get a little under the skin for maximum flavor. This step is where the magic really begins, infusing every bite with smokiness and spice. Let the chicken rest for at least 30 minutes, or, if you have the luxury of time, pop it in the fridge for up to 4 hours for even more depth of flavor.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Place a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. When it’s good and hot, lay the chicken thighs in skin-side down. Sear them for 5–7 minutes until the skin is gorgeously golden and crisp. Flip and let the other side cook for about 5 minutes—this creates that crave-worthy texture.
Step 4: Finish Cooking
Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet with a lid or foil. Allow the chicken to cook gently for another 10–12 minutes, until perfectly done (aim for 165°F inside). This gentle finish keeps your Easy Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté impossibly juicy.
Step 5: Rest the Chicken
Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for several minutes. This pause locks in those flavorful juices so each bite is as succulent as can be.
Step 6: Prepare the Lemon Zucchini Sauté
Without cleaning the skillet (hello, flavor!), add a tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds—enough for a pop of fragrance but not so much it browns.
Step 7: Sauté the Zucchini
Add the zucchini half-moons and sprinkle lightly with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes, if desired. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring every so often, until the zucchini is tender yet still vibrant and slightly crisp.
Step 8: Add Lemon Brightness
Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and scatter over the zest, tossing quickly to coat the zucchini. Let these flavors meld for about a minute—this makes the veggies sing with freshness.
Step 9: Plate and Garnish
Arrange the chicken thighs beautifully beside a generous scoop of lemon zucchini sauté. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or cilantro for that burst of green and an herby finish.
Step 10: Enjoy!
Take a well-deserved bite and marvel at your creation! Easy Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté is perfect alongside fluffy rice, crusty bread, or a simple salad for a complete, satisfying meal.
How to Serve Easy Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley, cilantro, or a smattering of basil take your Easy Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté over the top. Not only do they add a pop of color, but they also provide a burst of herbal brightness that balances the smoky and lemony notes. For a little more zing, a final grating of lemon zest gives the plate extra sparkle!
Side Dishes
This dish loves company! Serve your Easy Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté over fluffy rice, alongside roasted potatoes, or with a wedge of warm, crusty bread to mop up those pan juices. A light green salad or even a scoop of quinoa also make delicious, wholesome companions.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, arrange the chicken and zucchini on a rustic board with extra lemon wedges and herb sprigs for sharing. Or, try plating individually, stacking the chicken atop a bed of the sautéed zucchini for restaurant-worthy presentation. You can even slice the chicken off the bone and tuck it into warm pita or tortillas with the zucchini for a picnic-style spread!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got extra Easy Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté? Let everything cool to room temperature before transferring to airtight containers. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days while staying moist and flavorful, perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
The chicken thighs freeze beautifully—just wrap tightly or use freezer bags to avoid freezer burn. You can freeze the zucchini sauté too, though it may soften more after thawing. Store both for up to 2 months, thawing overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-cooked taste, reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep things juicy. Warm the zucchini on the stovetop as well, just enough to take off the chill without overcooking. The microwave works in a pinch, but the stovetop keeps textures best.
FAQs
Can I use boneless, skinless chicken instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless thighs or chicken breasts will both work for Easy Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté. Just reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent drying out, and keep an eye for doneness—it’s all about juicy, flavorful results.
What can I use if I don’t have smoked paprika?
If you’re short on smoked paprika, sweet paprika or a dash of chili powder can step in. You’ll miss a little smoky depth, but the dish will still be delicious with a different warmth and color.
Is it possible to swap zucchini with another veggie?
Definitely! While zucchini’s tenderness and mild flavor pair beautifully here, yellow squash works perfectly, or try thinly sliced bell peppers, asparagus, or even eggplant for a twist. Just watch the sauté time so the veggies stay vibrant.
How spicy is this recipe?
The recipe as written is quite mild—the only source of heat is a pinch of optional red pepper flakes in the sauté. Feel free to add more for a little kick, or leave them out if you prefer everything mellow and kid-friendly.
Can I prep anything ahead for busy evenings?
You bet! Mix up the marinade and get your chicken soaking the night before, and slice your zucchini the morning of. When you’re ready to cook, dinner comes together in a snap—just one more reason to love Easy Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté.
Final Thoughts
Once you’ve tasted Easy Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté, you’ll see why it’s become a beloved staple in so many kitchens. There’s something so satisfying about a dish that’s vibrant, filling, and wholesome—all while staying truly easy enough for any night of the week. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own!
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Easy Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Easy Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté recipe is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines juicy marinated chicken thighs with a zesty lemon zucchini sauté. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight meal!
Ingredients
For The Asado Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar
- Juice of 1 lime (or lemon)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
For The Lemon Zucchini Sauté:
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons (about 4 cups)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Asado Chicken Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, balsamic vinegar, and lime juice. Stir well to create a fragrant marinade!
- Marinate the Chicken: Take the chicken thighs and rub the marinade all over them. Let this sit for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, marinate in the fridge for up to 4 hours.
- Cook the Chicken: Sear the chicken thighs in a hot skillet until golden brown and crispy, then cook through.
- Finish Cooking: Cover and cook until the chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature.
- Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest while you prepare the zucchini.
- Make the Lemon Zucchini Sauté: Sauté garlic, add zucchini, season, and cook until tender.
- Stir in the Zesty Lemon: Add lemon juice and zest, cook briefly to blend flavors.
- Serve: Plate the chicken with the lemon zucchini sauté and garnish with fresh herbs.
- Enjoy: Serve with rice, bread, or salad. Enjoy your Easy Asado Chicken!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sauté, Pan-Fry
- Cuisine: Latin American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with zucchini sauté
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 175mg
Keywords: Asado Chicken, Lemon Zucchini Sauté, Chicken Thighs, Marinated Chicken
