Cache & Cook

Lemon-Herb Ground Chicken with Charred Zucchini

weeknightgluten-freelight
10 minPrep15 minCook4Serves

Ingredients

  • 1 poundground chicken
  • 1 poundzucchini
  • 1lemon
  • 3 clovesgarlic
  • ¼ cupfresh dill
  • ¼ cupfresh mint
  • 3 tablespoonolive oil
  • ·kosher salt
  • ·black pepper

Prep

  1. 01

    Dice zucchini into 1/2-inch half-moons.

  2. 02

    Mince 3 garlic cloves.

  3. 03

    Chop dill and mint.

Method

  1. 01

    Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon, until no pink remains (about 6–8 minutes). Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Transfer to a plate.

  2. 02

    Add the remaining 2 tablespoons oil to the same skillet. Add zucchini and a pinch of salt; cook undisturbed for 3 minutes until the bottoms char lightly, then stir and cook another 2–3 minutes until tender-crisp.

  3. 03

    Return the chicken to the skillet. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat.

  4. 04

    Squeeze lemon juice over the dish (about 2 tablespoons), then fold in dill and mint. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Serve warm over rice, with crusty bread, or on its own.

Spice Tips

For warmth, add 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes with the garlic. A pinch of smoked paprika adds depth without heat. Fresh basil can stand in for mint if you prefer.

This works beautifully over rice or served with a simple green salad. Leftovers reheat gently in a low oven for lunch the next day.

Want recipes from your fridge? Cache & Cook drafts them free.

Try it free