In the world of home-cooked meals, there are certain dishes that effortlessly combine simplicity and flavor, making them a go-to for any occasion. Creamy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Parmesan Sauce is one such dish that strikes the perfect balance between richness and freshness. The tenderness of the chicken, the earthy flavor of zucchini, and the indulgent Parmesan cream sauce create a dish that is as comforting as it is delicious.
This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something that’s quick, satisfying, and healthy, yet still feels special enough for guests. The ingredients are familiar and easy to find, making this dish a practical choice for both beginner and experienced cooks. The creamy sauce, made with chicken broth, butter, and Parmesan, envelops the chicken and zucchini, adding richness and depth of flavor. It’s the kind of dish that you can customize with different vegetables, herbs, or seasonings depending on what you have on hand, ensuring that it never gets boring.
What makes this recipe timeless is its versatility and ability to please a wide variety of tastes. The chicken is lean and high in protein, the zucchini adds a nutritious and mild sweetness, and the Parmesan cheese brings a savory, umami punch. It’s a complete meal that can be served on its own or paired with a side, making it suitable for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to a more elegant affair.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- For the Chicken:
- 700 g (25 oz) chicken breast
- 1 medium zucchini
- 200 g (7.1 oz) all-purpose flour
- 4 eggs
- 7 g (0.2 oz) black pepper
- 7 g (0.2 oz) salt
- 10 g (0.4 oz) fresh parsley, chopped
- 50 g (1.8 oz) Parmesan cheese, grated
- 30 g (1.1 oz) butter
- For the Sauce:
- 200 ml (6.8 fl oz) chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 10 ml (0.3 fl oz) lemon juice
- 15 g (0.5 oz) fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 25 g (0.9 oz) butter
- 2 medium potatoes (for the side)
- 1 liter (34 pt) water
- 20 g (0.7 oz) butter (for potatoes)
- 4 g (0.1 oz) black pepper
- 10 g (0.4 oz) salt
- 20 ml (0.7 fl oz) milk
- 30 g (1.1 oz) cheese (optional, for the potatoes)
Steps to Prepare Creamy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Parmesan Sauce:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breast
- Trim and Prepare the Chicken:
- Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts. If the breasts are thick, you can slice them in half horizontally to ensure they cook more evenly and quickly.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with 7 grams of salt and 7 grams of black pepper. Lightly dredge the chicken in flour, ensuring it’s coated on both sides.
- Cook the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat 30 grams of butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and starts to bubble, add the chicken breasts to the skillet.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until it is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 75°C (165°F) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Tent it with foil to keep warm while you prepare the zucchini and sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini and Sauce
- Sauté the Zucchini:
- In the same skillet, add a little more butter if necessary. Slice the zucchini into thin rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference.
- Add the zucchini to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is softened and slightly caramelized.
- Make the Parmesan Sauce:
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the zucchini and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Pour in 200 ml of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to reduce slightly for about 2-3 minutes.
- Add 25 grams of butter to the skillet and stir until it melts and creates a smooth sauce.
- Stir in 50 grams of grated Parmesan cheese and 10 ml of lemon juice. Let the sauce simmer for another 2 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Chicken and Zucchini:
- Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the zucchini and sauce mixture. Let the chicken heat through for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring it absorbs some of the flavors from the sauce.
Step 3: Prepare the Potato Side
- Boil the Potatoes:
- While the chicken and zucchini are cooking, peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized chunks. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with 1 liter of water.
- Add 10 grams of salt and bring the water to a boil. Cook the potatoes for 10-12 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
- Mash the Potatoes:
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add 20 grams of butter, 4 grams of black pepper, 20 ml of milk, and 30 grams of cheese (if desired).
- Mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning to taste with more salt and pepper if necessary.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
KCAL and Servings:
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 550-600 kcal
- Servings: 4
Why This Recipe is Timeless:
This Creamy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Parmesan Sauce is a timeless recipe because it brings together classic, simple ingredients in a way that maximizes flavor without overwhelming the palate. Chicken breast, a lean and versatile protein, is always a crowd-pleaser, while the creamy sauce, infused with the richness of Parmesan and the brightness of lemon, elevates the dish. Zucchini adds a fresh, mild sweetness that balances the richness of the sauce, creating a harmonious dish that feels light yet satisfying.
Furthermore, the versatility of the recipe allows for modifications based on dietary preferences and available ingredients. You can swap the chicken for turkey, add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or even substitute the Parmesan for another type of cheese. The mashed potatoes are the perfect complement, but the dish could easily be served with rice or a simple salad for a lighter variation.
This dish is perfect for busy families, casual dinner parties, or anyone looking for a meal that’s both delicious and nutritious. It’s a reminder that comfort food doesn’t have to be heavy—it can be flavorful and balanced, offering something for everyone to enjoy.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 550-600 kcal
- Protein: 45 g
- Fat: 30 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
FAQs:
1. Can I use a different vegetable instead of zucchini? Yes! You can use any vegetable that cooks quickly and complements the flavors of the dish, such as bell peppers, spinach, or even asparagus.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time? The chicken and sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently before serving. The mashed potatoes are best made fresh, but they can also be stored for up to 2 days and reheated with a splash of milk.
3. Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets? Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Tips for Making the Dish:
- For extra flavor, you can add a splash of white wine to the sauce along with the chicken broth.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to the broth before simmering.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of Parmesan based on your preference for a stronger or milder cheese flavor.
Storage Tips:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken and sauce.
Conclusion:
This Creamy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Parmesan Sauce is the epitome of comfort food that is both indulgent and wholesome. The combination of chicken, creamy Parmesan sauce, and fresh zucchini is satisfying and perfect for any meal occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection. With its balance of rich flavors and lightness, it’s the perfect example.