If you’re looking for a delightful dinner that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, then look no further! This Crispy Parmesan Garlic Chicken With Zucchini recipe is a perfect weeknight meal that combines tender chicken breasts with crispy, golden breadcrumbs and fresh zucchini. The combination of garlic and Parmesan adds a savory punch, making it a family favorite. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special and how you can create it in your own kitchen.

What Makes This Recipe Special

What sets this Crispy Parmesan Garlic Chicken With Zucchini apart from other chicken dishes is its beautiful balance of textures and flavors. The chicken is coated in a crunchy layer of Italian bread crumbs and Parmesan, creating a satisfying crunch with every bite. The garlic infuses the chicken with rich flavor, while the sautéed zucchini adds a fresh, vibrant touch. It’s a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to prepare!

Ingredient Notes

2 Chicken Breasts sliced in half or 4 thin chicken breasts: Choose high-quality chicken for the best flavor and texture.
8 Tablespoons Butter divided: This adds richness and helps achieve that crispy coating.
1 cup Italian Bread Crumbs: For the perfect crunch, use seasoned bread crumbs.
1 cup plus 1 Tablespoon Grated Parmesan divided: Freshly grated cheese will yield the best results.
1 cup Flour: This is essential for dredging the chicken to create a crispy coating.
2 Medium Zucchinis sliced: These add color and nutrition to the dish.
2 Garlic Cloves minced: Fresh garlic elevates the flavor profile significantly.

Gear Checklist

Large Skillet: A non-stick skillet is ideal for cooking the chicken evenly.
Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a few bowls for dredging and mixing your ingredients.
Meat Mallet or Rolling Pin: For flattening the chicken breasts to ensure even cooking.
Spatula: For flipping the chicken and zucchini while cooking.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy in measurements will lead to the best results.

Make Crispy Parmesan Garlic Chicken With Zucchini: A Simple Method

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by slicing your chicken breasts in half horizontally to create thin cutlets. If you’re using whole chicken breasts, consider pounding them to an even thickness using a meat mallet. This will help them cook evenly.

Step 2: Set Up Dredging Station

In one bowl, place the flour. In a second bowl, combine the bread crumbs and 1 cup of grated Parmesan. In a third bowl, melt 4 tablespoons of butter and set aside.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

Take each piece of chicken and coat it in flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the melted butter, allowing the excess to drip off. Finally, coat it in the bread crumb and Parmesan mixture, pressing down to ensure it sticks well.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken cutlets to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep warm.

Step 5: Sauté the Zucchini

In the same skillet, add the sliced zucchini and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the zucchini is tender yet still crisp. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

To serve, plate the crispy Parmesan garlic chicken alongside the sautéed zucchini. Sprinkle the remaining tablespoon of Parmesan over the top for an extra touch. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Warm & Cool Weather Spins

In the summer, consider grilling the chicken for a smoky flavor while serving it with fresh, grilled zucchini.
For a winter twist, serve the chicken over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or alongside roasted root vegetables.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice over the finished dish for a bright, refreshing flavor.
For a cozy night in, pair this dish with a light pasta salad to round out the meal.

What Not to Do

Don’t skip the flour dredging step; it helps the batter adhere to the chicken.
Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can cause the chicken to steam instead of crisp up.
Do not overcook the chicken, as this will make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F).
Don’t use stale bread crumbs; fresh ones yield the best texture and flavor.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To keep your Crispy Parmesan Garlic Chicken With Zucchini fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore the crispiness. For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Ready, Set, Cook

This Crispy Parmesan Garlic Chicken With Zucchini is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the family together. The satisfying crunch of the chicken paired with the tender zucchini makes it a dish you’ll want to serve again and again.

So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful recipe. Happy cooking!