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Chicken and Zucchini Skillet (One Pan High Protein Dinner)

Chicken and Zucchini Skillet is a quick one-pan dinner made with juicy chicken thighs, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, garlic, lemon, and feta cheese. Ready in under 30 minutes, this healthy high-protein recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and easy meal prep.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Mediterranean-inspired

Ingredients
  

  • 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 medium zucchini sliced into half moons
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • Juice of ½ fresh lemon
  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese

Instructions
 

Step 1: Season the Chicken

  • Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season generously with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and dried oregano. Stir to coat every piece evenly with the seasonings.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

  • Cook the chicken for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's beautifully golden on the outside and fully cooked inside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

  • Using the same skillet, add the sliced zucchini. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes slightly tender while still maintaining a little bite.
  • Add the halved cherry tomatoes and continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes. As they soften, they'll release their natural juices and create a light, flavorful sauce.

Step 4: Add the Garlic

  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown too much, as it can become bitter.

Step 5: Finish the Skillet

  • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and gently toss everything together.
  • Squeeze the fresh lemon juice over the Chicken and Zucchini Skillet, allowing the citrus to brighten all the flavors. Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the top.
  • Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

Chicken thighs provide the juiciest texture, but chicken breast works equally well when cooked carefully.
For extra freshness, garnish with chopped parsley and a little lemon zest before serving.
The vegetables should remain slightly crisp rather than becoming overly soft.
Taste before serving and adjust the salt if needed, since feta cheese naturally adds saltiness.