If you’re looking for a dish that brings together wholesome ingredients with minimal fuss, then the Chicken and Vegetable Skillet: A Simple and Healthy One-Pan Meal Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe not only delivers vibrant colors and fresh flavors in every bite but also keeps things easy and convenient by cooking everything in one pan. It’s a perfect go-to meal for busy weeknights or anytime you crave something nourishing and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll quickly become a favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to the success of this recipe. Each component serves a purpose—whether that’s to build flavor, add texture, or brighten the plate with color, they all come together effortlessly in this one-pan meal.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: A lean protein that cooks quickly and remains tender and juicy.
- Olive oil: For searing the chicken and sautéing the vegetables, adding richness and helping develop a golden crust.
- Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika: These spices bring warmth and depth without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every ingredient’s natural flavors.
- Bell peppers: Chopped for sweetness and a splash of vibrant color.
- Zucchini: Provides a tender, slightly crisp bite and fresh green hues.
- Carrots: Add a natural sweetness and contrasting texture.
- Red onion: Sliced thin for a subtle bite and beautiful purple accents.
- Cherry tomatoes (optional): For juicy bursts of flavor and extra color contrast.
- Chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth to keep everything deliciously tender.
- Lemon juice: Brightens the entire dish with a fresh, tangy finish.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped as a vibrant garnish to lift the flavors.
- Optional crushed red pepper flakes or herbs like thyme/oregano: Great for adding a little kick or herbal complexity if you like.
How to Make Chicken and Vegetable Skillet: A Simple and Healthy One-Pan Meal Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Begin by seasoning your chicken breasts or thighs generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. This blend ensures every bite is packed with flavor. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, place the chicken in the pan and sear for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side until the surface is golden brown and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature ideally 165°F or 74°C). Once cooked through, set the chicken aside to rest briefly—this locks in the juices for tender, succulent meat.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the chopped bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and sliced red onion. Keeping that skillet hot but controlled, sauté these vegetables for about 5 to 7 minutes to soften them while maintaining a fresh bite. If the pan starts to look dry at any point, splash in a bit of chicken broth to keep everything moist and prevent sticking. This step builds wonderful layers of flavor while retaining beautiful texture and brightness.
Step 3: Combine and Simmer
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it among the vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth and drizzle the lemon juice over the top. Stir gently to integrate the ingredients, then cover the skillet and let everything simmer together for 5 minutes. This final simmer melds the flavors perfectly, allowing the lemon to brighten and the broth to tenderize both the chicken and vegetables further. Your kitchen will start to smell absolutely irresistible!
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the entire dish for a burst of color and freshness. For an extra zing, squeeze a little more lemon juice right on top just before serving. This dish tastes best warm and fresh from the pan, inviting everyone to dig in and savor each wholesome bite.
How to Serve Chicken and Vegetable Skillet: A Simple and Healthy One-Pan Meal Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate this dish beautifully. Fresh parsley adds a pop of green and a subtle herbaceous note, while a few crushed red pepper flakes can provide a gentle spicy kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat. A wedge of lemon on the side encourages guests to add a citrus boost as they like, brightening every bite.
Side Dishes
Although this recipe is a complete one-pan meal, pairing it with a light side can round out the meal wonderfully. Consider a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to complement the flavors or a serving of fluffy quinoa or brown rice to soak up any juices from the skillet. Steamed green beans or a simple garlic bread loaf also make fantastic companions without overwhelming the skillet’s vibrant vegetables and chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, turn this meal into a healthy bowl by layering the chicken and vegetables over cooked grains or cauliflower rice. Alternatively, shred the chicken after cooking and use everything as a hearty filling for wraps or stuffed pita pockets. Not only does this add versatility, but it also makes the dish great for meal prepping lunches that feel fresh and exciting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled to room temperature, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. The Chicken and Vegetable Skillet: A Simple and Healthy One-Pan Meal Recipe keeps well for 3 to 4 days, making it ideal for easy, wholesome meals throughout the week.
Freezing
You can freeze this skillet meal in freezer-friendly containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it fully before freezing and leave a little headspace in containers as food expands when frozen. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying out. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through. The vibrant veggies will still hold their texture nicely after reheating, and the chicken remains juicy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and may even yield more tender, juicy results. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly and adjust timing if needed.
What if I want to add other vegetables?
Feel free to swap or add your favorites like mushrooms, broccoli, or green beans. Just keep an eye on cooking times so everything cooks evenly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! The ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this a safe choice for gluten-sensitive diners.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, omit the chicken and increase the vegetables or add plant-based proteins like tofu or chickpeas. Adjust seasonings accordingly for flavor.
How spicy is the dish?
The base recipe is mild and family-friendly. You can add crushed red pepper flakes or hot paprika if you prefer more heat.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dish that combines simplicity, health, and incredible flavor into one pan. The Chicken and Vegetable Skillet: A Simple and Healthy One-Pan Meal Recipe is perfect for anyone who wants to create a comforting, vibrant meal without any stress. It’s colorful, nourishing, and endlessly adaptable, so go ahead and give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite weeknight dinner!
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Chicken and Vegetable Skillet: A Simple and Healthy One-Pan Meal Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Chicken and Vegetables Skillet recipe is a simple and healthy one-pan meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Featuring tender seared chicken breasts combined with sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and onions, it’s a well-balanced dish bursting with vibrant flavors. Finished with a splash of lemon juice and fresh parsley for brightness, this recipe is both nutritious and satisfying with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing the chicken)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Vegetables and Broth
- 2 bell peppers, chopped (any color)
- 1 large zucchini, sliced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 small red onion, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Garnish and Optional
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: Crushed red pepper flakes or herbs like thyme or oregano for added flavor
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika to build a flavorful crust.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon olive oil, and once hot, sear the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add chopped bell peppers, sliced zucchini, carrots, and red onion. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften, adding a splash of chicken broth if the pan becomes too dry to prevent sticking.
- Simmer Together: Return the seared chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the remaining chicken broth and add lemon juice. Stir gently to combine and cover the pan. Let simmer for 5 minutes so the flavors meld and the chicken stays moist.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve immediately. Optionally, squeeze extra fresh lemon juice over the top or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or herbs like thyme or oregano for added flavor.
Notes
- Use bone-in chicken thighs if preferred, adjusting cooking time accordingly for doneness.
- Cherry tomatoes are optional but add a burst of natural sweetness and color.
- For a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the vegetables.
- This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
