Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 medium zucchini, sliced

Salt and pepper to taste

1.5 cups cooked corn kernels (about 3 ears of corn)

1 lb skinless, boneless chicken breasts, sliced

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon chili powder

¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

5 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice, or more

4 tablespoons butter, divided

½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Heat a large, high-sided cast-iron skillet over medium heat for 1 minute. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil and the sliced zucchini. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook for about 3 minutes, flipping once, until tender. Remove zucchini to a plate.

Step 2: Slice chicken breasts into strips and season with smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: In the same skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken in a single layer and cook undisturbed for about 4 minutes.

Step 4: Flip chicken strips, add minced garlic, and cook 2 more minutes. Lower heat to low, add lime juice and 2 tablespoons butter. Stir frequently and cook for another 2 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and garlic is softened.

Step 5: Return zucchini and cooked corn kernels to the skillet. Add remaining 2 tablespoons butter and melt over low heat, stirring to coat chicken and veggies in the garlic butter sauce. Heat for a couple of minutes then remove from heat.

Step 6: Stir in half the chopped cilantro. Adjust seasoning with salt, smoked paprika, chili powder, and lime juice if desired.

Step 7: Serve topped with remaining cilantro and a light sprinkle of chili powder for presentation.

Tips & Variations

Swap zucchini for yellow squash or bell peppers for a different vegetable mix.

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result.

Serve over rice or quinoa to make it a more filling meal.

Fresh lime juice brightens the dish—don’t skip it or adjust to taste.

FAQs

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen corn works well. Just thaw it before adding to the skillet so it heats evenly with the other ingredients.

Is this dish spicy?

The recipe uses mild chili powder and smoked paprika, offering gentle warmth, but you can adjust the spices or add red pepper flakes to make it spicier if you prefer.