Looking for a fresh way to use up chicken and zucchini? You’re in the right place. These two ingredients make the perfect pair — chicken is lean and protein-packed, while zucchini is light, low-carb, and full of vitamins. Together, they can create an endless variety of healthy, delicious meals.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a healthy low-carb option, or a meal-prep-friendly dish, this guide to 5 chicken and zucchini recipes will inspire you to get cooking. Each recipe is easy, flavorful, and designed to keep your dinner routine exciting.
Why Chicken and Zucchini Are a Perfect Match
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about why this combo works so well:
- High Protein + Low Carb: Chicken breast is lean and packed with protein, while zucchini is low in calories but full of nutrients.
- Quick to Cook: Both ingredients cook quickly, making them ideal for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Flavors: You can go Italian, Asian, Mediterranean, or even Tex-Mex with just a few pantry staples.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: These dishes reheat well and are perfect for packing lunches.
1. Garlic Butter Chicken and Zucchini Skillet
If you want a one-pan dinner that’s ready in 20 minutes, this garlic butter chicken and zucchini recipe is your new go-to.
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Zucchini: Add remaining butter to the skillet. Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant, then add zucchini slices. Cook 3-4 minutes until just tender.
- Combine & Serve: Return chicken to the skillet, sprinkle with Italian seasoning, and toss everything together. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
💡 Pro Tip: Serve this with cauliflower rice or mashed potatoes for a complete low-carb dinner.
2. Creamy Chicken Zucchini Alfredo
Craving comfort food? This recipe delivers a creamy, cheesy Alfredo flavor without being too heavy.
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced thin
- 3 zucchinis, spiralized into “zoodles”
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet, cook chicken until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes. Simmer until slightly thickened.
- Toss with Zoodles: Add zucchini noodles and cook just 2 minutes — they should stay slightly crisp.
- Combine: Return chicken to the pan and toss to coat. Serve warm with extra Parmesan.
💡 Meal-Prep Hack: Store the sauce and zucchini noodles separately to avoid sogginess when reheating.
3. Honey Garlic Chicken and Zucchini Stir-Fry
This recipe is perfect when you want something sweet, savory, and a little sticky. It comes together in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken thighs, cut into small chunks
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry)
Instructions:
- Cook Chicken: Heat sesame oil in a wok or skillet. Stir-fry chicken until browned and cooked through.
- Make Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk soy sauce, honey, vinegar, garlic, and cornstarch slurry.
- Combine: Add zucchini to skillet and cook 2-3 minutes. Pour in sauce and toss until thick and glossy.
- Serve: Top with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve over white rice, cauliflower rice, or quinoa.
💡 Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
4. Baked Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Perfect for family dinners, this casserole is cheesy, creamy, and easy to assemble ahead of time.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 3 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C).
- Layer Ingredients: In a greased baking dish, layer zucchini slices, shredded chicken, and cheese.
- Make Sauce: Mix sour cream, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly over the top.
- Bake: Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the casserole and bake 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
💡 Low-Carb Tip: Use almond-flour “breadcrumbs” on top for extra crunch without the carbs.
5. Grilled Chicken and Zucchini Kebabs
Take dinner outdoors with these smoky, flavorful kebabs. They’re perfect for summer grilling.
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 zucchinis, cut into chunks
- 1 red onion, cut into pieces
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
Instructions:
- Marinate: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and zucchini, toss to coat. Marinate 20 minutes.
- Assemble: Thread chicken, zucchini, and onion onto skewers.
- Grill: Cook on a preheated grill over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through.
- Serve: Pair with a fresh tzatziki sauce or a side salad.
💡 Shortcut: If you don’t have a grill, cook these kebabs in a grill pan on the stovetop.
Tips for Cooking Chicken and Zucchini Perfectly
- Don’t Overcook: Both chicken and zucchini can dry out or get mushy. Cook just until done.
- Season Well: Zucchini has a mild flavor, so bold spices, garlic, or fresh herbs really bring it to life.
- Add Color: Red bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or fresh basil make these dishes more vibrant and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
With these 5 chicken and zucchini recipes, you can create a variety of healthy, satisfying meals without spending hours in the kitchen. From creamy Alfredo to grilled kebabs, these dishes are versatile enough for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even casual entertaining.
Try one tonight — your taste buds (and your busy schedule) will thank you!