Healthy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash

When Life Gets Busy, Let Chicken Work Its Magic

Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash is the weeknight hero your dinner routine has been craving. If your fridge is whispering, “You’ve got leftover squash…” and your schedule is shouting, “You’ve got 30 minutes, tops!”—then friend, this recipe is for you.

This dish is wholesome, vibrant, and deliciously satisfying—without dragging you into a two-hour kitchen marathon. It’s a lighter, veggie-packed meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, and yes, even the picky eaters at my table have given it two (clean) forks up. Whether you’re trying to sneak more veggies onto your plate or just want a flavorful new spin on chicken, this Healthy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash will not disappoint.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash

Let’s be honest—chicken breast gets a bad rap for being boring. But this one? It’s juicy, herby, and kissed with lemon and parmesan. The zucchini and yellow squash soak up all that garlicky goodness, creating a sautéed medley that’s equal parts light and comforting.

Plus, this recipe is:

Quick and easy (Dinner in under 30!)
Family-approved (my kids ask for seconds!)
Healthy without trying too hard
Perfect for summer when squash is everywhere, or anytime you’re craving something fresh

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this feel-good meal come to life:

1 1/4 lbs boneless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 tablespoons butter, divided (or sub with more olive oil)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
3 teaspoons Italian seasoning, divided
1 teaspoon garlic powder, divided
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon lemon zest, plus extra for garnish
10 oz. zucchini (2 small), sliced (halve if thick)
10 oz. yellow squash (2 small), sliced (halve if thick)
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese (or more, no judgment)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

How To Make Healthy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash

Step 1: Prep & Season the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large (12-inch) non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.

Meanwhile, pat your chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This is key for getting that beautiful golden sear—nobody wants soggy chicken.

Season with salt, pepper, 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon zest. Toss it all together so every little cube gets a flavor hug.

Tip: I usually season it right on the cutting board—because less bowls = less dishes = happier me.

Step 2: Sear That Chicken

Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the hot skillet and let it melt into the olive oil.

Add the seasoned chicken and cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes. Flip and cook another 3 minutes, or until it’s cooked through (165°F in the thickest part).

Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep it warm while you work on the veggies.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

In the same skillet (no need to wash it—yay!), add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and butter.

Toss in your sliced zucchini and yellow squash. Sprinkle with salt, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.

Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 4 minutes or until the veggies are just tender. You want them bright and juicy, not mushy.

Step 4: Toss and Finish

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the veggies.

Drizzle over that fresh lemon juice and give everything a good toss. Then sprinkle in parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for a glorious finish.

Serve warm, garnished with more parmesan and lemon zest if you’re feeling fancy (which you totally deserve).

Optional but yum: Serve over orzo or couscous for a more filling meal. It soaks up all the lemony, buttery goodness.

Quick Tips for Healthy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash

Use fresh lemon juice: Bottled stuff works in a pinch, but fresh makes the dish pop.
Don’t overcook the squash: They should still have a bit of bite—think “al dente” veggies.
Want to go dairy-free? Swap the butter for olive oil and skip the parmesan (or use a vegan version).
Need more heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the veggies for a subtle kick.

A Little Story from My Kitchen…

This Healthy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash became a summer favorite after one of those “What can I possibly do with all this zucchini from the farmer’s market?” moments. I tossed everything into a pan, added lemon and cheese (because when in doubt: cheese), and boom—my husband thought I had followed a fancy recipe. He even offered to do the dishes that night. Now that’s a dinner win.

Close-up of Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash, topped with grated parmesan and fresh herbs. — Golden and flavorful, this Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash is the ultimate one-skillet comfort meal.

FAQs: Because I Know You’re Wondering

Can I substitute the zucchini or squash?

Yes! Try bell peppers, asparagus, or even green beans. Just keep the cook time in mind.

Can I use frozen veggies?

You can, but they may release more water. Just sauté them a bit longer so they don’t make the dish soggy.

How do I store leftovers?

Pop them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

Is this low-carb?

It sure is! Packed with protein and veggies, this dish is great for low-carb or keto lifestyles. Just skip the orzo if you’re going super low-carb.

Let This Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash Be Your Go-To

Whether it’s a Monday night dinner scramble or you just want to feel a little healthier without giving up flavor, this Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash will deliver. It’s nourishing, comforting, and honestly just tastes like summer.

So go ahead—slice, sizzle, and sprinkle your way to a delicious meal tonight. And if your family cleans their plates like mine does? That’s the kind of kitchen magic I’m here for

Ready to cook this Healthy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash? Let me know how it goes—or tag me @ChickenMagicRecipes so I can see your beautiful plates!

More Chicken Magic You’ll Love

If you enjoyed this Healthy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash, your taste buds are in for a treat! Here are a few more recipes from Chicken Magic Recipes that pair beautifully with this healthy, veggie-forward dish—or offer new, exciting ways to keep dinner fresh and flavorful:

Looking for another vibrant skillet meal? Try this Caprese Chicken Zucchini Skillet for a fresh, summery twist that balances juicy chicken with melty mozzarella and basil.
For a cozy, casserole-style option that still packs in the zucchini goodness, check out the Rotisserie Chicken Zucchini Casserole. It’s hearty, wholesome, and perfect for using up leftovers.
Craving a little sweet heat? You’ll love the Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken—it’s crispy, spicy-sweet, and totally addictive.
And if you want to keep things garlicky (who doesn’t?), don’t miss the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. It’s creamy, comforting, and loaded with flavor.

Feel free to bookmark these for later—you never know when that next “what’s for dinner?” moment will strike!