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Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté

Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté for Flavorful Weeknights

Enjoy a vibrant Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté, combining juicy chicken and zesty vegetables for a quick weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Marinating Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts Thighs are juicier; breasts should be pounded for even cooking.
  • 1/4 cup orange juice Adds brightness; can substitute with lemon juice and honey.
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice Fresh is key for best flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Helps the marinade stick and promotes browning.
  • 3 cloves garlic Minced for aromatic depth.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika Smoked or sweet adds warmth.
  • 1 teaspoon cumin Contributes earthy notes.
  • 1 teaspoon oregano Mexican oregano preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon vinegar Red wine or apple cider.
For the Zucchini Sauté
  • 2 medium zucchini Small-to-medium, can use yellow squash.
  • 1/4 cup parsley Chopped or can substitute with cilantro.
  • 1 optional shallot Adds a touch of sweetness.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Large Skillet
  • separate skillet

Method
 

Marinate and Cook
  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together orange juice, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and vinegar until well blended. Add the chicken, coating thoroughly with marinade. Let marinate for 20–30 minutes at room temperature or up to 8 hours in the fridge.
    Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken, searing thighs for 4–6 minutes per side or breasts for 3–4 minutes per side until deeply browned and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer chicken to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes.
    Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté
Prepare the Zucchini
  1. In a separate skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced zucchini, cooking undisturbed for 2 minutes. Toss zucchini and continue for an additional 2–3 minutes until tender-crisp. Stir in shallots and minced garlic, cooking for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
    Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté
  2. Off heat, mix in fresh lemon juice and zest, sprinkle black pepper and chopped parsley into the sautéed zucchini. Toss gently to combine.
    Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté
  3. Plate the Asado Chicken next to the Lemon Zucchini Sauté, drizzling any juices from the chicken over the top and garnish with lemon wedges and flaky salt.
    Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini Sauté

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 30gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 35mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use boneless, skinless thighs for juiciness; marinate for optimal flavor—refrigerate overnight if possible. Keep an eye on caramelization during cooking to avoid burning.

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