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Flavorful Tex Mex Chicken and Zucchini Delight

Tex Mex Chicken and Zucchini - featured image
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A quick, easy, and healthy Tex Mex chicken and zucchini dish packed with smoky spices and fresh lime brightness, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into 1-inch strips
  • 2 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise and sliced into 1/4-inch half-moons
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips about 1-inch thick. Wash and halve the zucchinis lengthwise, then slice into 1/4-inch half-moons. Mince the garlic cloves finely.
  2. In a small bowl, combine chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When shimmering, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Let sear undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until golden on one side.
  4. Sprinkle half of the spice blend over the chicken and stir to coat evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until chicken is mostly cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate.
  5. Add another tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet if needed. Toss in zucchini slices and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes until zucchini is tender-crisp and fragrant. Sprinkle remaining spice blend over zucchini while cooking.
  6. Return chicken to the skillet with zucchini. Stir together and cook for an additional 2 minutes to combine flavors and heat through. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top and stir.
  7. Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top, stir once more, and serve immediately.

Notes

Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming; cook in batches if needed. Let chicken sear undisturbed to develop a golden crust. Fresh lime juice added at the end brightens the dish. Use smaller zucchinis for better texture and flavor. Can substitute chicken thighs or turkey breast. Optionally add beans, jalapeños, or cheese for variations.

Nutrition

Keywords: Tex Mex, chicken, zucchini, quick dinner, healthy, easy recipe, weeknight meal, gluten-free, low-carb

Find it online: https://emacrave.com/flavorful-tex-mex-chicken-and-zucchini-delight-recipe-easy-and-healthy-dinner-idea/