Chicken and Vegetables Skillet

Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is a quick, wholesome, and flavorful one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Juicy chicken breast is cooked alongside a medley of vibrant vegetables, all seasoned to perfection. This versatile dish is satisfying, healthy, and pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or crusty bread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan convenience: Minimal cleanup for an easy weeknight meal.
• Healthy and balanced: Packed with lean protein and nutrient-rich vegetables.
• Quick and versatile: Ready in under 30 minutes and customizable to your taste.
• Family-friendly: A meal that’s sure to please both kids and adults.
• Great for leftovers: Reheats well for a delicious next-day lunch.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sliced
• Zucchini, sliced
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Onion, diced
• Broccoli florets
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Dried Italian seasoning or your favorite herb blend
• Optional garnish: fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Prepare the chicken:
   • Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning.
2. Cook the chicken:
   • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the vegetables:
   • In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil.
   • Sauté the onion and garlic for 2 minutes until fragrant.
   • Add the bell peppers, zucchini, broccoli, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
4. Combine and season:
   • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the cherry tomatoes.
   • Sprinkle with additional Italian seasoning and cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Serve and garnish:
   • Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Different proteins: Substitute chicken with shrimp, turkey, or tofu for variety.
• Other vegetables: Add mushrooms, asparagus, snap peas, or spinach based on what’s in season.
• Spicy kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce for added heat.
• Saucy option: Add a splash of balsamic glaze, soy sauce, or a dollop of pesto for a flavor boost.
• Low-carb version: Serve on its own or over cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly meal.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, but cook them straight from frozen and adjust the cooking time as needed to prevent excess moisture.

2. How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?

Avoid overcooking the chicken by removing it from the skillet as soon as it’s cooked through.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, cook the chicken and vegetables separately, then combine and reheat when ready to serve.

4. What’s the best oil to use?

Olive oil adds great flavor, but avocado oil or coconut oil work well too.

5. How do I keep the vegetables crisp?

Cook the vegetables over medium-high heat and avoid over-stirring to retain their texture.

6. Can I add a sauce to this dish?

Absolutely! Marinara, teriyaki, or lemon-butter sauces pair wonderfully with this recipe.

7. What sides go well with this skillet?

Serve with rice, pasta, quinoa, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

8. How do I cut the prep time?

Use pre-cut vegetables and chicken to make this dish even faster to prepare.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but use a larger skillet or cook the chicken and vegetables in batches for even cooking.

10. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Ensure any added sauces or seasonings are also gluten-free.

Conclusion

Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is a versatile, delicious, and wholesome meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and bold flavors, this recipe is easy to customize and adapt to your preferences. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this one-pan wonder will quickly become a go-to favorite!

Print