There’s something incredibly satisfying about a one-pan meal that not only tastes amazing but also makes cleanup a breeze. This garlic butter chicken with fresh zucchini and sweet corn is exactly that kind of dinner hero. Tender chicken breasts seared to a golden brown mingle with tender-crisp zucchini slices and bursts of sweet corn, all kissed by a fragrant garlic butter sauce. With just a handful of pantry staples and colorful produce, you can whip up a meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome—in under an hour, including prep, cooking, and resting time.
Whether you’re juggling a busy weeknight or simply craving comfort without the fuss, this recipe has your back. It’s rated as beginner friendly, yet it delivers restaurant-quality flavor that’s perfect for both cozy family dinners and casual gatherings. In about 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes on the stove, plus a quick 5-minute rest, you’ll have juicy, tender chicken infused with garlic, herbs, and butter, while the zucchini and corn add fresh, seasonal brightness. At roughly 350 calories per serving, it strikes a lovely balance between healthy dinner options and satisfying comfort food—yes, you can have both!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN GARLIC BUTTER CHICKEN WITH FRESH ZUCCHINI AND SWEET CORN
Getting to know your ingredients is half the fun of cooking. Each component in this recipe plays a specific role, contributing to the overall harmony of flavors and textures. From the juicy chicken that carries the rich garlic butter sauce to the lively crunch of zucchini and bursts of sweet corn, every item works together like a dream team in your skillet.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
The star of this dish, chicken breasts provide lean protein and a tender canvas that soaks up all the buttery garlic goodness.
- Salt and black pepper
Simple seasonings that are essential for enhancing the natural flavor of the chicken and bringing balance to the dish.
- Olive oil
Used for the initial sauté, it helps achieve that perfect golden-brown sear while adding a hint of fruitiness.
- Unsalted butter
Divided into portions, it thickens into a luscious sauce and brings a creamy richness that rounds out the savory notes.
- Garlic
Minced garlic offers an aromatic punch, layering in warm, pungent flavors that make every bite irresistible.
- Italian seasoning
A fragrant blend of herbs—such as basil, oregano, and thyme—that infuses the vegetables and chicken with an herby depth.
- Zucchini
Sliced to just the right thickness, fresh zucchini adds a tender-crisp texture and a mild vegetal sweetness.
- Corn kernels
Whether fresh off the cob or from a can, sweet corn kernels introduce pops of sugary delight that contrast beautifully with the savory elements.
- Fresh parsley
Chopped and sprinkled at the end, parsley lends a bright, herbaceous finish and a dash of color.
- Lemon juice
A quick drizzle of fresh lemon juice elevates the entire dish with its tangy brightness, cutting through the richness of the butter.
HOW TO MAKE GARLIC BUTTER CHICKEN WITH FRESH ZUCCHINI AND SWEET CORN
Let’s dive into the cooking adventure! This recipe follows a straightforward sequence of steps where you’ll first focus on perfectly cooking the chicken and then crafting the garlicky butter sauce with veggies. The transitions between searing, sautéing, and simmering are seamless, so your skillet does most of the work. Here’s how to bring it all together:
1. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper on both sides, ensuring every bit of meat is evenly seasoned.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6–7 minutes on each side, or until they reach a golden-brown crust and an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside, keeping it warm.
3. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once it’s bubbling, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to let it burn.
4. Stir in the Italian seasoning, then introduce the sliced zucchini and corn kernels. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini becomes tender yet still holds its shape and the corn is heated through.
5. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Allow it to melt and evenly coat the chicken and vegetables for a unified flavor profile.
6. Drizzle lemon juice over the chicken and vegetables, then sprinkle with chopped parsley to brighten the flavors.
7. Allow everything to heat through for about 2 minutes, tasting and adjusting salt and pepper as needed.
8. Serve the dish warm, savoring each bite of this flavorful and colorful one-pan meal!
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR GARLIC BUTTER CHICKEN WITH FRESH ZUCCHINI AND SWEET CORN
Presenting this vibrant dish is just as fun as cooking it. The combination of golden chicken, green zucchini, and bright yellow corn looks stunning on any table. Whether you’re serving straight from the skillet or plating individual portions, here are some ways to elevate your presentation and complement the flavors beautifully.
- Over fluffy rice
Ladle the saucy chicken and vegetable mixture atop a bed of steamed jasmine or basmati rice. The rice soaks up the garlic butter sauce, creating a comforting, hearty base.
- Tossed with pasta
Stir the chicken, zucchini, and corn into cooked fettuccine or linguine. Add an extra pat of butter or a splash of pasta water for a silky finish.
- With a crisp green salad
Serve alongside a simple arugula or mixed greens salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. The peppery greens and tangy dressing provide a refreshing counterpoint.
- Garnished with grated Parmesan
Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the dish just before serving. The salty, nutty flavor of the cheese adds a luxurious touch and extra depth.
HOW TO STORE GARLIC BUTTER CHICKEN WITH FRESH ZUCCHINI AND SWEET CORN
Proper storage ensures you enjoy every bite of this delicious recipe even days later. Whether you want to meal-prep for the week or save leftovers for a quick lunch, these tips will help maintain the dish’s flavor and texture. Keep in mind that zucchini can soften over time, so handle the reheating gently.
- Refrigerate in airtight containers
Allow the dish to cool to room temperature, then transfer portions into clean, sealed containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep flavors fresh and prevent the chicken from drying out.
- Freeze in individual portions
For longer storage, divide cooled servings into freezer-safe bags or containers. Press out excess air to avoid freezer burn, and keep for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheat gently on the stove
Place leftovers in a skillet over low to medium heat. Add a splash of water or a small pat of butter to revive the garlic butter sauce, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
- Microwave with care
If you’re short on time, microwave covered portions in 30-second bursts, stirring in between to distribute heat evenly. This method works best for portions under 2 cups to avoid uneven warming.
CONCLUSION
What we’ve cooked up here is more than just a straightforward dinner—it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together in the most delicious way. From the juicy, golden-brown chicken breasts seasoned to perfection, to the garlic-infused butter sauce that ties everything together, each element is designed to deliver maximum flavor with minimum fuss. The fresh zucchini offers a tender crunch, while the sweet corn kernels add pops of sweetness that balance the savory notes. With beginner-friendly steps and clear timing—15 minutes of prep, 20 minutes of cooking, and a quick 5-minute rest—you’ve got an easy chicken dinner that looks impressive but feels totally approachable. At around 350 calories per serving, it’s a healthy dinner choice that doesn’t sacrifice taste or satisfaction.
Feel free to print this article and save it for your recipe collection, so the next time you need an easy, one-pan meal you can rely on, it’s right at your fingertips. You’ll also find a FAQ section below for any extra tips or troubleshooting you might need. If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out—leave a comment, share your questions, or let me know if you added your own twist. Your feedback not only helps me refine recipes but also inspires other home cooks to dive into the kitchen with confidence and joy. Happy cooking!
Garlic Butter Chicken with Fresh Zucchini and Sweet Corn
Description
This garlic butter chicken is juicy and tender, complemented by crisp zucchini and sweet corn. It's a colorful, flavorful dish that's perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Stir in the Italian seasoning, then add the sliced zucchini and corn kernels to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the zucchini is tender and the corn is cooked through.
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Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Let it melt and coat the chicken.
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Drizzle lemon juice over the chicken and vegetables, then sprinkle with chopped parsley.
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Allow everything to heat through for about 2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
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Serve warm and enjoy this flavorful and colorful dish!
Note
- To save time, you can use pre-cooked or leftover chicken instead of cooking fresh chicken.
- For added flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese over the finished dish.
- This dish can be enjoyed on its own or served over a bed of rice or pasta.
- Always ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
