This easy asado chicken is juicy and full of flavor, grilled to perfection with aromatic spices. The zesty lemon zucchini is a bright and refreshing side that pairs perfectly!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness, but chicken breasts work too if you prefer. You can also use drumsticks or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a great depth of flavor. If you can’t find it, sweet paprika is a fine alternative. Cumin and oregano are must-haves for that classic asado taste.
Zucchini: While regular zucchini is great, yellow squash can also work. If zucchini isn’t available, try other veggies like bell peppers or asparagus, which grill nicely and soak up the flavor.
Fresh Herbs: I love using parsley for its fresh taste, but cilantro is also a great choice. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, consider using basil or chives as alternatives!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
Marinating the chicken is crucial! The mix of olive oil, garlic, and citrus helps keep the meat tender and flavorful. Be sure to let it marinate for at least 30 minutes – or even up to 2 hours for the best flavor. This allows the spices to soak in and ensures a juicy result.
- Pat the chicken dry before marinating to help the marinade stick.
- Don’t rush the cooking on the grill; a medium-high heat is perfect to get the nice char without drying out the chicken.
What’s the Best Way to Grill Zucchini?
Grilling zucchini can be tricky, as it can become mushy. Cut the zucchini into even slices about ½ inch thick. This helps them cook evenly on the grill. Toss them with olive oil and seasoning to enhance their flavor.
- Grill for just 2-3 minutes on each side. Look for grill marks to know when they’re done!
- For a hint of spice, sprinkle with red pepper flakes, but feel free to skip it for a milder taste.
Easy Asado Chicken with Zesty Lemon Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Asado Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional for mild heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime or lemon
For the Zesty Lemon Zucchini:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds or half-moons
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken (up to 2 hours for more flavor). Grilling will take about 15 minutes total, so you can have dinner ready in about 45 minutes or less!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, chili powder, salt, pepper, and the juice of your lime or lemon. This will be your flavorful marinade for the chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken pieces in the bowl with the marinade. Make sure they are fully coated on all sides. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. For the best results, try to marinate them for about 2 hours!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This helps to get those nice grill marks on the chicken.
4. Prepare the Zucchini:
In a separate bowl, toss the sliced zucchini with olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Make sure all the slices are well-coated with the seasoning.
5. Grill the Chicken:
Once your grill is hot, place the marinated chicken on it. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, until it’s fully cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C) and has nice grill marks.
6. Grill the Zucchini:
While the chicken is grilling, or afterward if there’s space, place the zucchini on the grill. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes per side until they are tender and have grill marks.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Take both the chicken and zucchini off the grill. Sprinkle the chopped parsley or cilantro over the zucchini for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve the asado chicken alongside the zesty zucchini.
8. Optional Garnish:
For an extra zing, you can add lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the chicken!
Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful meal that’s simple yet packed with fresh zest and smoky grilled goodness! It’s perfect for a sunny day or any time you’re craving something delicious!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, bone-in chicken can be used! Just adjust the cooking time, as it will take a bit longer to reach the appropriate internal temperature. Aim for about 10-12 minutes per side depending on the thickness.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh. Just marinate the tofu or tempeh for a similar flavor profile and grill as you would the chicken. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers or eggplant for variety!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat. The zucchini is best enjoyed fresh, but you can reheat it gently if needed.
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Yes! Feel free to replace zucchini with other quick-grilling vegetables like bell peppers, asparagus, or even corn on the cob. Just adjust the cooking time based on the vegetable’s thickness and type.
