Grilled Chicken Breast with Zucchini

Grilled chicken with fried zucchini – a delicious, simple, and healthy recipe! This dish is perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. The zucchini and chicken breast combine wonderfully, while the garlic yogurt sauce adds a touch of freshness and flavor. Let's discover together how to prepare this dish, step by step!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 2 boneless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Thyme, to taste
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 100 ml oil (preferably olive oil for a refined taste)
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, crushed
- 2-3 tablespoons yogurt (Greek yogurt for a creamier texture)
- Fresh dill for garnish

A bit of history

Grilled chicken is a classic choice in many cultures, often symbolizing moments of conviviality and joy around outdoor meals. Combined with fried zucchini, this dish becomes not only tasty but also nutritious, thanks to the vitamins from the vegetables. Zucchini is a versatile food, rich in water, which helps hydrate the body and is low in calories, making it ideal for a balanced diet.

Preparation

1. Preparing the zucchini: Start by peeling the zucchinis. They can be left with the skin, but removing it gives them a smoother texture. Cut the zucchinis into slices about 1 cm thick. This thickness will help achieve even frying without becoming too mushy.

2. Frying the zucchini: In a heated pan, add 50 ml of olive oil. When the oil is hot, add the zucchini slices. Let them brown for 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden and tender. If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can opt for grilling; the grill will add a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken. Once done, remove the zucchini onto a paper towel to absorb the excess oil.

3. Preparing the chicken: Meanwhile, prepare the chicken breast. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and thyme on both sides. If you want a more complex flavor, you can also add a little garlic powder or paprika for an extra kick. Then, on a well-heated grill, add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, depending on their thickness. Make sure the chicken is cooked through (the internal temperature should be 75 degrees Celsius) but still juicy.

4. Preparing the garlic yogurt sauce: In a small bowl, crush the 2-3 cloves of garlic. Add 2-3 tablespoons of yogurt and mix well. This sauce will add a note of freshness to the dish. If you like a stronger garlic flavor, feel free to add an extra clove.

Serving

Once all the ingredients are ready, it's time to assemble the plate. Place the chicken breast on a platter alongside the fried zucchini. Generously drizzle the garlic yogurt sauce on top and garnish with chopped fresh dill. This dill garnish not only adds a splash of color but also a fresh taste that perfectly complements the meal.

Serving suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a green salad, mashed potatoes, or even a serving of quinoa. Additionally, for a more sophisticated meal, you can accompany this dish with a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing fruit cocktail.

Possible variations

To diversify the recipe, you can also add other grilled vegetables, such as peppers or mushrooms. You can also use different spices to personalize the flavor, such as oregano or smoked paprika. Instead of yogurt, you can use crumbled feta cheese for a more intense taste.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This recipe is figure-friendly, having about 350 calories per serving, depending on the amount of oil used. Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for maintaining muscle mass, while zucchini is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, contributing to healthy digestion.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use turkey breast instead of chicken? Yes, turkey breast is a tasty and healthy alternative, with a similar protein content.

2. How can I keep the fried zucchini crispy? Make sure not to overcrowd the pan and that the oil is well heated. Also, consume them immediately after cooking to maintain the crispy texture.

3. What other sauces can I use instead of garlic sauce? A delicious alternative would be tzatziki sauce or an avocado dip.

Now that you know all the secrets of this grilled chicken with fried zucchini recipe, all that's left is for you to get cooking! Try to play with the flavors and personalize your dish, leaving your personal touch. Happy cooking!