When it comes to healthy dining, few protein sources rival the nutritional benefits of chicken. And when paired with the low-calorie, high-fiber goodness of zucchini, you’ve got a match made in heaven! This summer squash is not only delicious grilled or sautéed, but also packed with vitamins and antioxidants that support overall well-being.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 20 mouth-watering chicken and zucchini recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping your diet on track. From classic comfort foods like casseroles and stir-fries, to international flavors inspired by the Mediterranean and Asia, these recipes showcase the versatility of this dynamic duo.
Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick weeknight meals or a foodie seeking inspiration for your next dinner party, we’ve got you covered with our collection of must-try chicken and zucchini dishes.
Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken and Zucchini Skewers
Brighten up your summer gatherings with these flavorful and colorful skewers! Marinated chicken and zucchini are grilled to perfection, infused with a hint of lemon and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil.
2. Add the chicken and zucchini; toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread chicken and zucchini onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through and zucchini is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Zucchini Casserole
This creamy casserole combines tender chicken, zucchini, and parmesan cheese for a comforting and flavorful meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add zucchini slices to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
5. Combine cooked chicken and zucchini mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour cream sauce over the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
One-Pan Chicken and Zucchini Stir-Fry with Soy Glaze
Savor the flavors of Asia-inspired cuisine with this easy-to-make one-pan stir-fry, featuring tender chicken, crunchy zucchini, and a savory soy glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add zucchini, garlic, soy sauce, and honey to the pan. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until zucchini is tender-crisp.
4. Return chicken to the pan and stir to combine with the vegetables.
5. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes.
Spicy Chicken and Zucchini Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines juicy chicken, crunchy zucchini, and a kick of heat from jalapeños. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color), seeded
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 medium zucchinis, diced
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken, zucchini, and jalapeño until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
3. Stir in cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken mixture, rice, black beans, and cheese (if using).
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Sheet-Pan Mediterranean Chicken and Zucchini Bake
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this effortless one-pan recipe, featuring juicy chicken, tender zucchini, and a medley of aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add chicken and zucchini to the bowl; toss until coated.
5. Arrange the mixture on the prepared sheet pan in a single layer.
6. If using feta cheese, crumble it over the top of the chicken and zucchini.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the zucchini is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zucchini Noodle Chicken Alfredo
Elevate your pasta game with this healthy twist on the classic Alfredo dish. This recipe substitutes zucchini noodles for traditional spaghetti, reducing carbs and calories while maintaining rich flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless chicken breast
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook chicken breast in a skillet with butter until cooked through.
3. Spiralize zucchinis into noodles and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant. Add heavy cream and bring to simmer.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine cooked chicken, zucchini noodles, and Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Zucchini Meatballs with Marinara
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with a twist on traditional meatballs, using chicken and zucchini for added moisture and nutrition. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, these meatballs are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1 medium zucchini, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, zucchini, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, and garlic.
3. Mix well with hands until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot with marinara sauce and garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Baked Chicken and Zucchini Parmesan
Baked Chicken and Zucchini Parmesan: A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional chicken parmesan!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken strip in the beaten egg, then coat in breadcrumb mixture.
4. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Arrange zucchini slices on top of chicken.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and zucchini is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 4
Chicken Zucchini Curry with Coconut Milk
A flavorful and aromatic curry that combines the tender chicken, crunchy zucchini, and creamy coconut milk, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add zucchini and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Add coconut milk and browned chicken back into the pan. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken and Zucchini Stew
A deliciously easy and healthy stew that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. This slow cooker recipe is a great way to enjoy tender chicken and flavorful zucchini in a comforting, creamy broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, zucchinis, onion, garlic, and diced tomatoes.
2. Pour in chicken broth and add salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in heavy cream.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Chicken and Zucchini Fritters with Tzatziki
Elevate your appetizer game with these flavorful fritters, packed with juicy chicken, tender zucchini, and a hint of Mediterranean flair. Serve them alongside a cooling tzatziki sauce for a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
For the fritters:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, finely chopped
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the tzatziki:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine chicken, zucchini, flour, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
3. Form into small patties and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, mix tzatziki ingredients in a bowl.
6. Serve fritters warm with tzatziki sauce on the side.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zucchini Lasagna with Shredded Chicken
Elevate your lasagna game with this flavorful and healthy twist featuring zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta, paired with shredded chicken and rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion!
Ingredients:
– 8-10 zucchinis
– 1 lb cooked shredded chicken (such as rotisserie chicken)
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook zucchinis according to package instructions or by spiralizing fresh zucchinis.
3. In a large skillet, combine cooked chicken, marinara sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well.
5. Assemble lasagna by spreading chicken mixture on the bottom layer, followed by zucchini noodles, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers two more times, finishing with mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Chicken and Zucchini Enchiladas
This recipe combines the tender flavors of chicken and zucchini with the warmth of enchilada sauce, wrapped up in a deliciously easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack)
– Optional: chopped cilantro, sour cream, and diced tomatoes for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken, zucchinis, and onion over medium-high heat until chicken is cooked through.
3. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over low heat for about 30 seconds on each side.
4. Assemble enchiladas by spooning chicken mixture onto tortillas, rolling up, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish.
5. Pour enchilada sauce over the top, followed by shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey Mustard Chicken and Zucchini Foil Packets
A sweet and tangy twist on classic chicken and vegetables, these foil packets are perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch. The honey mustard sauce adds a rich flavor to the chicken and zucchini without overpowering them.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, and garlic.
3. Place a chicken breast in the center of a large piece of aluminum foil.
4. Arrange zucchini slices around the chicken.
5. Brush the honey mustard sauce evenly over the chicken and zucchini.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Fold the foil over the ingredients, creating a packet.
8. Place packets on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Zucchini Soup with Fresh Herbs
Brighten up a chilly day with this vibrant and nutritious soup, infused with the brightness of fresh herbs. This easy-to-make recipe combines tender chicken, juicy zucchini, and aromatic herbs for a deliciously light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium zucchinis, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs: parsley, dill, or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the zucchinis, garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Use an immersion blender (or transfer to a blender) to puree the soup until smooth.
6. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half, if using.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Zucchini Stir-Fry with Peanut Sauce
This recipe combines the flavors of chicken, zucchini, and peanut sauce to create a tasty and healthy dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts or sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tbsp of oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add zucchini to the pan and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, and honey.
6. Pour the peanut sauce over the chicken and vegetables in the skillet. Stir-fry everything together until combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped peanuts or sesame seeds if desired.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Chicken and Zucchini Quesadillas
Elevate your lunch or dinner game with these flavorful quesadillas, packed with tender chicken, sautéed zucchini, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large tortillas
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, zucchini, onion, and garlic; cook until zucchini is tender (3-4 minutes).
3. In a separate pan, place a tortilla and sprinkle with 1/4 cup of cheese.
4. Add cooked chicken mixture on half of the tortilla, then fold in half.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until cheese melts and tortilla is crispy.
6. Flip and cook an additional 2 minutes.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Zucchini Tacos with Lime Crema
This recipe combines the best of summer’s bounty – juicy chicken, tender zucchini, and a dollop of creamy lime crema – to create a deliciously light and refreshing taco.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime crema (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken and zucchini; toss to coat.
4. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through and zucchini is tender.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with grilled chicken and zucchini, then top with lime crema and desired toppings.
Lime Crema:
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– Juice of 1 lime
– 1 tsp honey
Mix until smooth; refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Zucchini Bread with Shredded Chicken and Cheese
This recipe combines the best of both worlds – the comfort of homemade bread with the protein-packed punch of shredded chicken. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup grated zucchini
– 1/2 cup shredded cooked chicken
– 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, zucchini, chicken, cheese, egg, milk, and olive oil. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chicken and Zucchini Kabobs with Chimichurri
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these colorful kabobs, featuring marinated chicken, zucchini, and a tangy Argentinean-style chimichurri sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, garlic, and oregano. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Thread chicken, zucchini, and parsley onto skewers.
4. Grill kabobs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine cilantro, lime juice, and salt in a small bowl. Serve chimichurri sauce with grilled kabobs.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meal routine with these 20 mouth-watering chicken and zucchini recipes! From grilled skewers to creamy casseroles, one-pan stir-fries to baked parmesans, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion feast, these healthy and delicious recipes are sure to please. With flavors ranging from Mediterranean to Mexican, and sauces from soy glaze to peanut sauce, you’ll never get bored with this versatile ingredient combo.