If you’ve ever stared into your fridge wondering how to turn a few simple ingredients into a dinner that smells like a restaurant and tastes like home, this Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn has your name on it. Tender chicken, sweet corn, and lightly sautéed zucchini come together in a buttery, garlicky pan that practically begs for a fork. The best part? You’ll barely dirty a pan, which leaves more time to savor every bite instead of scrubbing the kitchen.
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Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
A simple, one-pan meal with tender chicken, buttery garlic sauce, and fresh zucchini and corn. Quick, easy, and perfect for weeknight dinners or family meals.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breasts or thighs, boneless, skinless
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (or olive oil for dairy-free)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Pat chicken dry, season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Prepare zucchini, corn, and garlic.
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook garlic until fragrant, then sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side.
- Push chicken aside, add zucchini and corn, sauté 3–4 minutes. Mix together to coat with garlic butter.
- Garnish with parsley and serve immediately with rice, pasta, or salad.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
- Reheat gently to maintain moisture.
- Freeze for up to 2 months if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
Table of Contents
What makes this garlic butter chicken recipe special
This recipe shines because of the garlic butter. As the chicken sears, the butter and garlic form a rich sauce that coats every bite. Meanwhile, zucchini stays tender but not soggy, and corn keeps its sweet pop. The combination of textures and the buttery, savory flavor make this Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn both comforting and fresh. Plus, it’s flexible—you can swap veggies, add herbs, or double the recipe for gatherings. It’s straightforward, cozy, and reliably delicious.
Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn Ingredients
Ingredient swaps and allergy-friendly options
Flexibility is key with this Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn. You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts for more juiciness. If you need a dairy-free option, replace butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute—your garlic sauce will remain flavorful. For low-sodium diets, reduce added salt or use unsalted butter. Frozen corn works just as well as fresh if you’re short on time, and zucchini can be swapped for yellow squash for a slightly different texture. This garlic butter chicken recipe adapts easily without sacrificing taste.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breasts or thighs | 1 lb (450 g) | Boneless, skinless |
| Zucchini | 2 medium | Sliced into half-moons |
| Corn kernels | 1 cup | Fresh or frozen |
| Unsalted butter | 3 tablespoons | Can use olive oil for dairy-free |
| Garlic | 4 cloves | Minced |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Adjust to taste |
| Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon | Freshly ground preferred |
| Paprika | ½ teaspoon | Optional, for extra flavor |
| Fresh parsley | 2 tablespoons | Chopped, for garnish |
Step-by-Step Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the chicken and vegetables
Start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels, which helps it sear beautifully in the pan. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika if using. Slice zucchini into half-moons and prepare corn kernels. Mince garlic finely so it releases its full flavor during cooking. Prepping everything ahead ensures that the garlic butter sauce comes together quickly and evenly, giving this Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn a restaurant-quality finish without the fuss.
Step 2: Cooking in garlic butter
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Place the chicken in the pan and sear for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked. Push the chicken to the side, then add zucchini and corn to the same pan. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until vegetables are tender but still crisp. Stir everything together so the chicken is coated in buttery, garlicky goodness.
Step 3: Finishing and serving
Remove the pan from heat and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the chicken and vegetables. Serve immediately with rice, mashed potatoes, or a side salad for a complete meal. Because the flavors are well-balanced and the vegetables stay crisp, this Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn tastes fresh, flavorful, and homemade. This one-pan recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or a simple date-night dinner at home.
Flavor Variations and Add-Ins
Extra herbs and spices to try
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn is already full of flavor, but you can easily customize it. Adding fresh thyme, rosemary, or oregano while cooking brings an aromatic boost. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds subtle heat, while a squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens the whole dish. These small adjustments keep the core recipe simple while giving it a fresh twist, letting you enjoy different flavor profiles without complicating the cooking process.
Protein and vegetable variations
If you want to switch things up, this garlic butter chicken recipe is flexible. Swap chicken for turkey breast or chicken thighs for juicier meat. For vegetables, yellow squash, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes work beautifully alongside zucchini and corn. You can even add mushrooms for an earthy touch. Because the recipe cooks everything in one pan, all these variations maintain the buttery, garlicky sauce that makes this dish so satisfying. As a result, this Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn can be a weeknight staple while still feeling fresh and creative.
Serving Ideas and Meal Pairings
Quick weeknight dinners
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn is perfect for busy weeknights because it cooks in one pan and comes together quickly. Serve it over steamed rice, quinoa, or buttered pasta to soak up the garlicky sauce. Pairing it with a simple side salad or roasted potatoes turns this simple garlic butter chicken recipe into a complete, satisfying dinner in under 30 minutes. Because it’s flavorful and easy, it’s ideal for families or anyone who wants a fuss-free weeknight meal.
Healthy sides and complementary dishes
To keep your meal light and balanced, serve the garlic butter chicken with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed cauliflower, or a crisp green salad. Fresh lemon wedges or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds an extra touch of flavor. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread to mop up the buttery garlic sauce. By pairing this Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn with simple, fresh sides, you create a wholesome dinner that looks elegant and tastes even better.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Refrigerating and reheating leftovers
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn keeps well for quick lunches or dinners. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium-low heat to warm the chicken and vegetables gently, which preserves the tender texture and buttery garlic flavor. Avoid microwaving too long, as it can dry out the chicken. Because this garlic butter chicken recipe reheats beautifully, it’s perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights.
Freezing options for busy nights
You can also freeze this dish for later use. Allow the garlic butter chicken and vegetables to cool completely, then place in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet for best results. Adding fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon after reheating refreshes the flavors. These make-ahead tips make this Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn a reliable option when you need a quick, wholesome dinner without starting from scratch.
FAQs About Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and add extra flavor. Adjust cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few minutes longer to reach 165°F internally.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely. Replace butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. The garlic flavor remains rich, and the vegetables still soak up the sauce beautifully.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen corn and zucchini work well. Add them a bit earlier than fresh vegetables to ensure they cook through without becoming mushy.
How can I make this meal for a family gathering?
Double or triple the recipe and cook in batches, keeping the garlic butter sauce intact. Serve with rice, pasta, or roasted potatoes for a full, family-friendly meal.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn is the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. With tender chicken, sweet corn, and crisp zucchini coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, it’s a one-pan meal that’s both comforting and fresh. Quick to prepare, beginner-friendly, and versatile for variations, this garlic butter chicken recipe works for weeknight dinners, family meals, or meal prep. It’s flavorful, wholesome, and sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.