Let’s be honest—weeknights can feel like a never-ending game of “what’s for dinner?” If you’re juggling work, kids, laundry (and maybe hiding in the pantry for five minutes of peace—we’ve all been there), then Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Sweet Corn is about to become your new best friend.
It’s rich, savory, fresh, and totally fuss-free. This skillet meal wraps juicy chicken breasts in garlicky, buttery goodness, then tosses in crisp zucchini and sweet corn for a colorful, veggie-packed finish. And the best part? It all comes together in one pan in under 30 minutes.
Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, health-conscious partners, or just yourself and a glass of wine, this dish is a feel-good go-to with zero drama.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Sweet Corn
Picture this: buttery golden chicken seared to perfection, nestled in a bed of sweet corn and tender zucchini, all kissed with garlic and finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. It’s everything your soul (and taste buds) need after a long day.
- One skillet = fewer dishes. Bless.
- Balanced and hearty. Protein? Check. Veggies? Double check.
- Naturally gluten-free and full of flavor. No weird swaps necessary.
- Quick enough for Tuesday, delicious enough for company.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what’s on the grocery list—simple, wholesome, and easy to find:
- 4 chicken breasts
- ½ cup butter
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 2 ears of sweet corn
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish and a little flair)
Let’s Cook: Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Start with the butter.
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s fully melted and just starting to bubble. That’s your flavor base right there.
2. Garlic prep.
Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves. Set them aside—you’ll need them in just a bit.
3. Veggie time.
Wash the zucchinis, chop off the ends, and slice them into rounds or half-moons. Shuck the corn, then carefully slice off the kernels. (Pro tip: Do it over a large bowl to catch any flyaways.)
4. Season the chicken.
Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken breasts. Don’t be shy—the flavor starts here.
5. Sear the chicken.
Add the chicken to the skillet with the melted butter. Cook for 6–7 minutes on each side, until golden and cooked through. Once done, remove them to a plate and cover loosely with foil.
6. Sauté the garlic.
Toss your minced garlic into the same skillet (yes, use all that delicious leftover butter). Stir constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it burn!
7. Add zucchini.
Add the sliced zucchini and stir to coat them in that garlicky butter. Cook for about 3–4 minutes until they start to soften and turn golden.
8. Corn joins the party.
Mix in the sweet corn kernels. Season with salt and pepper, then cook everything together for another 2–3 minutes until the corn is tender and buttery.
9. Bring it all together.
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Nestle them into the veggie mixture and let everything simmer together for 2–3 more minutes so the flavors can mingle.
10. Garnish & serve.
Top with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot. Make sure everyone gets a generous scoop of that zucchini-corn goodness.
Pro Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken
- Butter watch: Don’t walk away while it’s melting—burnt butter can crash the party real quick.
- Want a little zing? Add a splash of lemon juice right before serving for a fresh pop.
- Too much zucchini? Never. But if you must sub it, yellow squash works beautifully too.
- Chicken thickness matters. Thicker breasts may need a little more time, or consider pounding them for even cooking (and faster results).
This Dish in My Kitchen
I made this Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Sweet Corn the night before my in-laws came over “just to say hi”—you know the kind of visit that turns into dinner. I needed something easy, crowd-pleasing, and not too fussy. They asked for seconds (and the recipe), and my kids even ate the zucchini without bribery. That’s a five-star win in my book.

FAQs About Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Sweet Corn
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Absolutely. Just thaw it first and pat it dry so it doesn’t add too much moisture.
What if I only have chicken thighs?
Go for it! Boneless, skinless thighs work great—just adjust the cook time since they may take a bit longer.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best fresh, but leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently to keep the chicken tender.
Is this Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Sweet Corn low-carb?
Pretty close! It’s naturally low in carbs, especially if you use just a small amount of sweet corn or leave it out altogether.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Sweet Corn is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a long, hectic day—simple, satisfying, and made with just the right amount of love and butter (okay, maybe a little extra butter). It’s a dish that brings balance to your plate: juicy, golden chicken; crisp-tender zucchini; and pops of sweet corn, all wrapped up in garlicky goodness.
Whether you’re cooking for a hungry family, hosting last-minute guests, or just flying solo and want leftovers that actually taste better the next day—this recipe delivers every single time. It’s quick enough for weeknights, comforting enough for weekends, and honestly, just the kind of meal that makes you feel like you totally have your life together, even if the laundry says otherwise.
So next time you’re staring into your fridge wondering what to make, skip the stress and grab your skillet. With this dish on the table, dinner is more than just food—it’s a moment of calm, joy, and a little bit of magic.
More Chicken Magic to Explore
If you loved this Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Sweet Corn, chances are you’re craving more of that delicious, homey comfort with a twist. Good news: there’s a whole world of flavorful, easy chicken dinners waiting for you right here at Chicken Magic Recipes! Whether you’re on the hunt for something bold, bright, or downright indulgent, these recipes are perfect companions to today’s buttery skillet favorite:
- Craving more buttery richness with a fiery kick? Try our irresistible Cowboy Butter Chicken—it’s smoky, zesty, and packed with personality.
- For a Mediterranean-inspired dinner, don’t miss this fresh and tangy Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta. It’s light, vibrant, and perfect for summer nights.
- Love the skillet life? You’ll adore the hearty, Tex-Mex flavors in our Chicken Black Bean Enchilada Skillet—a one-pan wonder that’s great for busy weeknights.
- If you’re craving something lighter but still satisfying, check out our Honey Mustard Chicken Salad for a sweet and tangy twist on lunch or dinner.
Explore these recipes and keep the chicken magic going—because great meals should always be this easy (and delicious).
Print
Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Sweet Corn
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Sweet Corn is a quick, one-pan dinner packed with juicy chicken, vibrant veggies, and rich garlic butter flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this dish is simple, wholesome, and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
4 chicken breasts
½ cup butter
4 cloves of garlic, minced
2 medium zucchinis, sliced
2 ears of sweet corn, kernels removed
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat until bubbly.
Mince garlic and set aside.
Wash zucchinis, trim ends, and slice into rounds or half-moons.
Shuck corn and slice kernels off the cob.
Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Place chicken in skillet and cook 6–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and cover loosely with foil.
In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds.
Add zucchini and stir to coat in garlic butter. Cook 3–4 minutes until softened.
Stir in corn and cook 2–3 more minutes until tender.
Return chicken to skillet and cook 2–3 additional minutes to blend flavors.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Chicken thighs can be substituted—just adjust cooking time as needed.
Frozen corn works in a pinch—thaw and pat dry before using.
For extra flavor, add a splash of lemon juice or red pepper flakes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 410 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 340 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg