Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet

Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet is a flavorful, one-pan meal that’s light, satisfying, and packed with protein and vegetables. With tender chicken, sautéed zucchini, and pasta tossed in a savory garlic and herb sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or easy, wholesome dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This skillet meal comes together in under 30 minutes and uses simple ingredients you likely already have. It’s a great way to use up summer zucchini, and it’s endlessly adaptable—you can add more veggies, change the pasta, or tweak the seasoning. Plus, it’s a complete meal in one pan: minimal mess, maximum flavor.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Olive oil
• Zucchini (sliced or halved lengthwise and sliced)
• Garlic (minced)
• Onion (chopped)
• Pasta (penne, rotini, or any short pasta)
• Chicken broth or water
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
• Optional: red pepper flakes, cherry tomatoes, lemon zest

directions

1. Cook pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté onion and garlic for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add zucchini and cook for 4–5 minutes until tender but still crisp.
5. Return cooked chicken to the skillet. Add cooked pasta and a splash of chicken broth or pasta water.
6. Toss everything together, then stir in Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs and optional toppings like cherry tomatoes or lemon zest before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Low-carb: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta.
• Creamy version: Add a splash of cream or cream cheese for a rich, creamy sauce.
• Spicy kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
• Extra veggies: Add bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli.
• Cheese lovers: Stir in mozzarella or feta along with the Parmesan.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat:

• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat with a splash of broth or water.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Freezing is not recommended as zucchini can become mushy after thawing.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes. Add it after the vegetables are cooked and just warm it through before mixing in the pasta.

What kind of pasta works best?

Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or rotini holds up well in this one-pan dish.

Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?

Yes, yellow squash works just as well and adds nice color variation.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta to make the dish fully gluten-free.

How do I keep zucchini from getting mushy?

Don’t overcook it—sauté just until it’s tender-crisp.

Can I use ground chicken?

Yes, ground chicken is a fine substitute and will still be flavorful.

What’s a good dairy-free cheese option?

Use your favorite dairy-free Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes. Omit the chicken and use more veggies or a plant-based meat substitute.

What herbs go best with this dish?

Fresh parsley, basil, or thyme add great flavor and color.

Can I make it ahead?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep components ahead and reheat gently before serving.

Conclusion

Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet is a wholesome, easy-to-make dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant zucchini, and pasta in a delicious one-pan meal. With its flexibility and quick prep, it’s the perfect solution for weeknight dinners that don’t skimp on flavor or nutrition.

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