This Easy Asado Chicken is juicy and packed with flavor, featuring a simple marinade that makes it a breeze to prepare. You just toss the chicken in and let the flavors soak in!
Pair it with sautéed lemon zucchini for a bright and fresh side that really brings out the best in the chicken. I can’t resist the touch of lemon—it adds the perfect zing! 🍋
I love how quick this meal comes together! Just grill the chicken and sauté the zucchini for a colorful plate that tastes as good as it looks. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless thighs for their juiciness. If you prefer, chicken breasts work too. They might dry out a bit, so be careful not to overcook!
Smoked Paprika: This ingredient really adds depth to the chicken. If you don’t have it, regular paprika can be used, but it won’t have the same smoky flavor. You can even try a pinch of cumin for a twist!
Zucchini: The star for the side dish! Fresh zucchini is ideal, but if you can’t find any, yellow squash can be a good substitute. You can also try bell peppers or asparagus for different flavors.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten up the zucchini. Bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch but fresh is definitely better for taste!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken just right can be tricky, but here are some tips! Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
- Start on medium-high heat to get a nice sear on the chicken.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give each piece room to cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part and see if the juices run clear.
What’s the Best Way to Sauté the Zucchini?
Sautéing zucchini can be quick and easy. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Make sure your pan is hot before adding olive oil or butter to prevent sticking.
- Cook the zucchini only until tender and slightly browned. Overcooking can make it mushy.
- Adding the lemon zest and juice at the end helps keep the flavor fresh and bright!
These simple tips and substitutions will help you make this delicious dish with confidence. Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Asado Chicken with Sautéed Lemon Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Asado Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
For the Sautéed Lemon Zucchini:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and around 15-20 minutes for cooking. If you let the chicken marinate for an hour or two, it will be even tastier. In total, set aside about 30-40 minutes for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, mix minced garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces, coating them well with the marinade. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate it for up to 2 hours for more flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, place the chicken in the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char. Once done, take it off the heat and let it rest.
3. Prepare the Zucchini:
While the chicken is cooking, heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it smells wonderful.
4. Sauté the Zucchini:
Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until it is tender and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add Lemon Flavor:
Stir in the lemon zest and juice, and season the zucchini with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional minute to mix the flavors well.
6. Serve:
Plate the grilled asado chicken alongside a generous serving of sautéed lemon zucchini. If you like, garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
7. Enjoy!
This delicious meal is wonderful with rice, some crusty bread, or a light salad on the side. Enjoy your tasty creation!
FAQ for Easy Asado Chicken with Sautéed Lemon Zucchini
Can I Use a Different Type of Chicken?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for boneless, skinless thighs, you can use chicken breasts if you prefer. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out faster.
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No worries! You can substitute regular paprika and add a pinch of cayenne for some heat. Alternatively, a bit of ground cumin can also add a nice flavor, though it won’t have the smokiness.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through. The zucchini may lose some texture, but the flavors will remain delicious!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just make sure to cook the chicken right before you’re ready to serve to keep it juicy and flavorful. You can also sauté the zucchini close to serving time for the best freshness!
