If you need a fast, flavor-packed meal that feels fresh but still comforting, this Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet delivers every time. Tender bites of seasoned chicken, sautéed zucchini, and perfectly cooked pasta are tossed together in a light garlic-Parmesan sauce — all in one pan.

This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you want something wholesome without sacrificing flavor. It’s balanced, satisfying, and endlessly customizable.

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Zucchini Pasta

• ✅ One-pan convenience
• ✅ Ready in about 30 minutes
• ✅ Family-friendly and customizable
• ✅ Fresh vegetables + lean protein
• ✅ Perfect for meal prep

It’s the kind of skillet dinner that looks impressive but requires minimal effort.

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle work well)
• 2 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional for creamier version)
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.

Set aside.

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Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Season chicken with:

• Italian seasoning
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper

Add chicken to skillet and cook 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C). Remove and set aside.

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Step 3: Sauté the Zucchini

In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil.

Add zucchini and cook 3–4 minutes until slightly tender but still vibrant. Avoid overcooking — zucchini should not become mushy.

Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

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Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in:

• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream (if using)

Let simmer 2–3 minutes.

Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted.

If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen sauce.

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Step 5: Combine Everything

Return cooked chicken to the skillet.

Add drained pasta and toss until evenly coated.

Simmer 2–3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Garnish with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan.

Serve immediately.

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Flavor Profile

This dish is:

• Savory and garlicky
• Light yet comforting
• Fresh from zucchini
• Slightly creamy (if using cream)
• Balanced with salty Parmesan

It’s rich without being heavy.

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Why This Recipe Works

• Chicken provides lean protein
• Zucchini adds freshness and texture
• Parmesan creates umami depth
• Pasta water enhances sauce consistency
• One skillet builds layered flavor

Everything comes together harmoniously.

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Creamy vs. Light Version

Light Version

Use only chicken broth + pasta water.

Creamy Version

Add heavy cream for richer texture.

Both are delicious — choose based on preference.

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Best Pasta Types to Use

• Penne
• Rotini
• Farfalle
• Fusilli

Short pasta holds sauce better than long noodles in skillet recipes.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Results

1. Don’t Overcook Zucchini

It should remain slightly firm.

2. Cook Chicken in Batches (If Needed)

Avoid overcrowding for proper browning.

3. Reserve Pasta Water

Starch helps emulsify the sauce.

4. Use Freshly Grated Parmesan

Pre-shredded doesn’t melt as smoothly.

5. Finish with Fresh Herbs

Adds brightness and visual appeal.

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Add-In Variations

Make It Spicy

Add red pepper flakes.

Add More Veggies

Try:

• Cherry tomatoes
• Spinach
• Mushrooms
• Bell peppers

Make It Lemon Garlic

Add lemon zest and juice for brightness.

Boost Protein

Add:

• Cooked shrimp
• Turkey sausage

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Make It Low-Carb

Replace pasta with:

• Zucchini noodles
• Chickpea pasta
• Lentil pasta

Adjust liquid slightly depending on substitute.

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Meal Prep & Storage

Refrigerate:

Store in airtight container up to 4 days.

Reheat:

Add splash of broth or water before reheating.

Freeze:

Cream-based version may separate when frozen; broth-only version freezes better.

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Nutritional Overview (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 450–550
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 18g

Exact values vary depending on cream usage.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking zucchini
• Using too much cream
• Not seasoning chicken properly
• Skipping pasta water
• Overcrowding skillet

Precision matters for best texture.

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What to Serve With Chicken Zucchini Pasta

• Garlic bread
• Side salad
• Roasted vegetables
• Steamed broccoli

It’s a complete meal on its own but pairs well with simple sides.

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How to Make It Restaurant-Quality

• Brown chicken deeply for flavor
• Finish with knob of butter for shine
• Garnish with shaved Parmesan
• Add cracked black pepper on top

Small details elevate presentation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs?

Yes — they add extra flavor and tenderness.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Omit Parmesan and cream; use nutritional yeast for flavor.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes — reduce cooking time and add during sauce step.

Why is my sauce watery?

Too much liquid or under-reduced sauce. Simmer longer.

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Final Thoughts

This Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet is the ultimate weeknight dinner solution. It’s quick, wholesome, and packed with balanced flavors that feel comforting without being heavy.

With tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and a silky Parmesan sauce, this one-pan meal checks every box: easy, satisfying, and adaptable to your tastes.

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