Name: Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn – One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs skinless, boneless chicken breasts; 2 medium zucchinis, sliced; 1.5 cups corn (fresh, canned, or frozen); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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This Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn is one of my favorite weeknight meals. It’s fast, easy, and loaded with flavor. Everything comes together in one skillet—from the juicy chicken and sweet corn to the tender zucchini—all coated in a rich garlic-lime butter sauce. It’s a no-fuss dinner that’s both wholesome and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this dish because it checks every box: it’s quick, made with pantry-friendly ingredients, and packed with flavor. The garlic butter sauce brings out the best in the chicken, while the zucchini and corn add freshness and sweetness. It’s all cooked in a single pan, which means minimal cleanup for me. Whether I’m feeding my family on a busy night or having guests over, this meal never disappoints.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Skinless, boneless chicken breasts
Zucchini
Corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
Garlic, minced
Olive oil
Butter
Fresh lime juice
Smoked paprika
Chili powder
Salt and black pepper
Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)

Directions

I start by slicing the zucchini and sautéing it in olive oil over medium heat until it’s lightly browned. Then I remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
I slice the chicken breasts into thin strips and season them with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and chili powder.
In the same skillet, I sear the chicken on one side without moving it for about 5 minutes, letting it develop a nice golden crust.
I flip the chicken, lower the heat, and add minced garlic, lime juice, and butter. I cook it until the chicken is fully cooked through.
Finally, I add the cooked zucchini back to the skillet along with the corn and stir everything together. I garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 and takes 30 minutes total:

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes

Variations

Use Chicken Thighs: I sometimes swap in boneless, skinless thighs for extra juiciness.
Add More Veggies: Bell peppers, mushrooms, asparagus, or broccoli work great if I want to mix it up.
Make it Spicy: A pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne gives the dish a nice kick.
Swap the Protein: I’ve also made this with shrimp or tofu for a different twist.
Top with Cheese: A sprinkle of feta or shredded cheddar adds a creamy finish.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I use the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist. The microwave also works in short intervals, but I prefer the skillet to keep the texture just right.

FAQs

Can I use frozen corn?

Yes, I often use frozen corn when fresh isn’t available. I just thaw it first or toss it right into the skillet during the final step.

What if I don’t have smoked paprika?

I can use regular paprika, but I really recommend smoked for its depth of flavor.

Can I meal prep this?

Definitely. I make it ahead and portion it out for easy lunches or dinners during the week.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

I make sure not to overcook it and slice it thinly so it cooks evenly and quickly. The garlic butter sauce also keeps it moist.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, I just skip the butter or use a plant-based alternative. The lime and garlic still add plenty of flavor.

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn is the kind of one-pan meal I rely on again and again. It’s fast, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Whether I’m trying to get dinner on the table quickly or looking for something simple yet impressive, this dish is always a win.