Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn

Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn has become my go-to weeknight dinner when I need something delicious but fast. This one-pan wonder transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal in just 30 minutes, with minimal cleanup afterward.

I first created this recipe on a busy Tuesday when I had chicken in the fridge and a family to feed. The combination of tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and sweet corn in a rich garlic butter sauce was an instant hit. What I love most about this Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn is how it delivers maximum flavor with minimum effort. The smoked paprika adds a subtle warmth that perfectly complements the fresh lime juice, creating a balanced dish that satisfies both adults and kids. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and packed with protein, making it a nutritious choice for busy weeknights.

What You’ll Need for This Delicious Chicken Dish

I always recommend using fresh, high-quality ingredients for this Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – just a handful of basic ingredients create something truly special. Pro tip: Using a cast-iron skillet will give you the best sear on your chicken, but any heavy-bottomed pan will work well.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 2 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1.5 cups corn kernels (about 3 corn ears), cooked
• 1 lb chicken breasts, skinless and boneless, sliced into strips
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (I recommend using a bit more for deeper flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
• 5 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic makes a huge difference here)
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice (plus extra for serving)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (reserve some for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken

Step 1: Heat an empty large, high-sided cast-iron skillet over medium heat for 1 minute. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the sliced zucchini. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook for about 3 minutes on medium heat until slightly tender. Flip once and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove cooked zucchini to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: While the zucchini cooks, season the chicken strips with smoked paprika, chili powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Make sure to coat all sides evenly.

Step 3: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil on medium heat in the same cast-iron skillet. Add chicken in a single layer (work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding). Cook undisturbed for about 4 minutes until golden brown on the bottom.

Step 4: Flip chicken strips over, add minced garlic, and cook for 2 more minutes until fragrant. Lower heat to low, add freshly squeezed lime juice and 2 tablespoons butter. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until chicken is cooked through and a beautiful sauce forms.

Step 5: Add the cooked zucchini and corn kernels to the same skillet with the chicken. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons butter and melt on low heat, stirring everything together. Do this quickly for a couple of minutes until butter melts and the garlic butter sauce coats everything evenly.

Step 6: Remove from heat and stir in half of the chopped fresh cilantro. Season with more salt, smoked paprika, and chili powder if desired. Add more lime juice if you prefer extra brightness. When serving, top with remaining chopped fresh cilantro.

Perfect Pairings for Your Garlic Butter Chicken

This versatile dish pairs beautifully with various sides that complement its flavors and textures. Here are my favorite options for the best sides for Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn:

Fluffy Quinoa: The nutty flavor and light texture of quinoa perfectly absorb the garlic butter sauce, adding extra protein and fiber to your meal.

Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice provides a subtle flavor that lets the chicken shine while adding more vegetables to your plate.

Warm Tortillas: Transform this dish into delicious wraps by serving with warm tortillas, allowing everyone to create their own chicken and veggie-filled tacos.

Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the rich garlic butter sauce.

More Delicious Chicken Recipes to Try

If you enjoyed this simple and flavorful skillet meal, you will love exploring other easy chicken dinners. For a similar dish with a creamy, carb-heavy twist, try this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta. If you want to switch up the protein while keeping the classic flavor combo, these Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Zucchini are an excellent choice.

For a different flavor profile that is still perfect for a weeknight, the Honey Lime Chicken Avocado Rice Stack offers a bright and fresh alternative. Another fantastic option for a savory and satisfying meal is the Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles, which is always a hit with the whole family.

How to Store and Reheat Your Leftovers

Your Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. I recommend storing it in a glass container to preserve flavors and avoid any plastic taste.

When reheating, gently warm the dish in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth if needed to refresh the sauce. Alternatively, you can microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even heating.

Pro tip: This dish actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. It’s perfect for meal prep – simply divide into individual containers for quick lunches throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About This Recipe

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