Pin it
This Asado chicken breast recipe transforms everyday chicken into a flavor-packed dinner with minimal effort. The bright lemon zucchini side creates a complete meal that feels both comforting and special without hours in the kitchen.
I discovered this recipe during a particularly busy season when I needed quick but impressive dinners. The combination of smoky spices and bright lemon has made it my go-to recommendation whenever friends need a foolproof chicken recipe that tastes like restaurant quality.
Ingredients
- Chicken breast: 3 lbs creates the perfect protein foundation for absorbing the robust flavors of the marinade
- Zucchini: 2-3 medium provides a tender vegetable component that soaks up the delicious sauce
- Garlic: 8 cloves forms the aromatic base that permeates both chicken and vegetables
- Oregano: 2 teaspoons adds an earthy Mediterranean note that pairs perfectly with the lemon
- Smoked Paprika: 1 tablespoon brings a deep smoky flavor that makes this dish distinctive
- Cumin Powder: 2 teaspoons contributes a warm earthiness essential to the asado flavor profile
- Chicken stock: ¼ cup creates depth in the marinade while helping tenderize the chicken
- Lemon juice: ¼ cup brightens everything and helps break down proteins for more tender chicken
- Onion Powder: ½ teaspoon adds savory depth without the texture of fresh onions
- Chili Flakes: ½ teaspoon brings a gentle heat that wakes up your palate
- Olive Oil: ¼ cup helps carry flavors and ensures juicy chicken
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the marinade:
- Combine paprika, cumin, chicken stock, lemon juice, onion powder, oregano, garlic, chili flakes, and olive oil in a bowl. This fragrant mixture is the heart of the recipe, so take a moment to taste and adjust the salt and lemon before adding your chicken. The marinade should taste quite bold as it will distribute across the chicken.
- Marinate the chicken:
- Add chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated on all sides. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though you can leave it up to 8 hours for deeper flavor penetration. The acid in the lemon juice helps tenderize the meat while the spices infuse throughout.
- Cook the chicken:
- Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Remove chicken from marinade, reserving the liquid for later. Cook chicken on both sides until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, approximately 15 minutes total. The key is maintaining a medium-low temperature to prevent burning the spices while ensuring the chicken cooks through. The natural sugars in the marinade will create a beautiful caramelization.
- Prepare the zucchini:
- Once chicken is cooked, transfer it to a warm plate and cover loosely with foil. In the same pan, add diced zucchini and season with salt, pepper and additional chili flakes if desired. The zucchini will pick up all the flavor left behind by the chicken, creating incredible depth. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the edges begin to soften.
- Finish with marinade sauce:
- Pour the reserved marinade into the pan with the zucchini. This step is crucial as it creates a cohesive flavor profile throughout the dish while transforming the marinade into a luscious sauce. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce reduces slightly and the zucchini reaches your preferred tenderness.
Pin it
My favorite ingredient here is definitely the smoked paprika. I discovered its transformative power during a cooking class in Spain, and now I consider it essential in my pantry. The way it adds depth without overwhelming the other flavors is culinary magic at its finest.
Marinating Magic
The chicken breast benefits enormously from marinating time. While 30 minutes works in a pinch, extending to 2-4 hours allows the acids in the lemon juice to break down tough proteins making the chicken incredibly tender. The oil in the marinade helps carry fat-soluble flavors deeper into the meat while protecting it from drying out during cooking. For meal planning, you can prepare the marinade and chicken the night before cooking for an even more flavorful result.
Temperature Matters
When cooking chicken breast, maintaining the proper temperature is crucial. Medium-low heat might seem too gentle, but it allows the chicken to cook through without burning the spices in the marinade. Using high heat would cause the garlic and spices to burn before the chicken is done, resulting in bitter flavors. If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, consider butterflying them or using a meat mallet to pound them to even thickness before marinating. This ensures they cook evenly and absorb maximum flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Asado chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides beyond the zucchini. Consider serving it with cilantro-lime rice to soak up the delicious sauce, or alongside a simple green salad with avocado. For a more substantial meal, warm flour tortillas allow you to create flavorful wraps with the chicken and zucchini. The dish is equally delicious hot off the stove or at room temperature, making it perfect for outdoor gatherings. A final squeeze of fresh lemon just before serving brightens all the flavors and ties everything together.
Cultural Context
This recipe draws inspiration from South American asado cooking traditions, where meats are typically seasoned simply and cooked over open flame. While traditional asado often features beef, this chicken adaptation maintains the smoky flavor profile through the use of smoked paprika and cumin. The addition of bright lemon and Mediterranean herbs creates a fusion dish that honors the spirit of asado cooking while incorporating influences from other culinary traditions. The result is a versatile dish that feels both familiar and special.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. For more flavor, you can marinate it for up to 8 hours.
- → Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?
Yes, you can substitute zucchini with vegetables like bell peppers, asparagus, or green beans based on your preference.
- → What is the ideal internal temperature for cooked chicken?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165ºF (74ºC) to be fully cooked and safe to eat.
- → Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and zucchini in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers and reheat before serving.
- → What side dishes pair well with this meal?
This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.