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Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini

Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini
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Asado Chicken with Lemon Zucchini is a vibrant, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken marinated in smoky asado spices paired with crisp, lemony zucchini. Simple ingredients and quick preparation make it ideal for weeknight dinners or impressive weekend meals, offering a healthy, balanced, and refreshing combination of protein and vegetables.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for cooking)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Lemon Zucchini

  • 2 medium fresh zucchinis, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Pinch of salt

Garnish (optional)

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Asado Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, olive oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well blended to create a fragrant marinade.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a large dish or resealable bag, pour the marinade over them, and massage to coat evenly. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours, for best flavor.
  3. Prepare the Lemon Zucchini: While the chicken marinates, slice the zucchini thinly and toss with olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt to maintain crunch and bright citrus flavor.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken skin-side down first until golden and crispy, about 6-8 minutes per side depending on thickness, then flip and cook through. Rest the chicken for 5 minutes after cooking.
  5. Sauté the Zucchini: Using the same pan, add more olive oil if needed and sauté the zucchini for 3-4 minutes until just tender but still vibrant, preserving its fresh zing.
  6. Plate and Serve: Arrange the cooked chicken and lemon zucchini on plates, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot with preferred side dishes.

Notes

  • Marinate longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the fridge.
  • Use skin-on chicken: The skin crisps up beautifully, locking in moisture and adding texture.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the chicken in batches if needed to ensure even browning.
  • Rest the chicken after cooking: Letting it sit for 5 minutes ensures juicy, tender bites.
  • Slice zucchini thinly: This ensures quick cooking and full absorption of lemon flavor.
  • Spicy variation: Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne to the marinade for heat.
  • Herb swap: Use fresh thyme or rosemary instead of parsley for a different herbal note.
  • Vegetarian option: Substitute chicken with portobello mushrooms for a plant-based alternative.
  • Grain bowl style: Serve the dish over quinoa or farro with extra lemon wedges for a heartier meal.
  • Dairy addition: Top with crumbled feta or grated Parmesan for a salty contrast.

Nutrition

Keywords: Asado Chicken, Lemon Zucchini, Grilled Chicken, Argentine Spices, Healthy Chicken Recipe, Easy Dinner, Gluten Free, Weeknight Meal

Find it online: https://dailydishez.com/asado-chicken-with-lemon-zucchini/