There’s something wonderfully satisfying about the sound of sizzling chicken and the aroma of fresh vegetables filling the air. This Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe is my go-to for those busy weeknights when time is tight but I still crave something delicious and nourishing. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a quick, healthy, one-pan meal that delights the senses and pleases even the pickiest eaters in your family. The best part? You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand, making it a versatile option for any occasion. Are you ready to transform your dinner routine with this scrumptious dish? Let's get cooking!
Why is this skillet dinner a must-try?
Simplicity and Speed: This Chicken and Vegetables Skillet comes together in just 35 minutes, making it a perfect solution for your busy evenings.
Healthy & Balanced: Packed with protein and veggies, this dish helps you maintain a nutritious diet without sacrificing taste.
Customizable: Use whatever vegetables you have on hand—broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers—to make it your own!
One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy an easy clean-up, as everything cooks in just one skillet—less mess means more time to savor your meal.
Delicious and Crowd-Pleasing: This recipe is sure to win over even the pickiest eaters, making it a top choice for family dinners. For more quick weeknight options, check out our other one-pan meals.
Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Ingredients
• Everything you need for a delightful meal.
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breast – Main protein source; provides heartiness. Can substitute with turkey or tofu for a lighter option.
- Olive Oil – For sautéing; helps in flavor absorption. Use a different oil (e.g., avocado oil) if preferred.
For Seasoning
- Salt & Pepper – Basic seasonings that enhance flavor. Adjust according to taste or dietary needs.
- Spice Mix (e.g., garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning) – Adds depth to the dish. Any pre-made seasoning can also work.
For the Vegetables
- Broccoli – Adds texture and nutritional value. Can be replaced with green beans or asparagus.
- Zucchini – Contributes moisture and freshness. Substitutable with yellow squash.
- Bell Peppers (any color) – Adds sweetness and crunch. Use seasonal vegetables as an alternative.
- Onion – Provides a savory base and aroma. Can be swapped for shallots or omitted for a low-carb version.
For the Broth
- Chicken Broth – Used for deglazing and enhancing flavor. Vegetable broth works well for vegetarian options.
For Garnish
- Fresh Parsley – Used as a garnish for brightness. Substitute with other herbs like cilantro or basil.
This Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is a flavorful opportunity to create a nourishing meal that everyone will love. Enjoy cooking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken and Vegetables Skillet
Step 1: Prepare Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and seasoning it generously with salt, pepper, and half of the spice mix. Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over the seasoned chicken, ensuring each piece is coated. Set the chicken aside while you heat up your skillet for the next stage.
Step 2: Sear Chicken
In a large skillet, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until it shimmer. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and sear them for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown. The chicken should be fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Cook Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then toss in the onion, broccoli, zucchini, and bell peppers. Sauté the vegetables over medium heat for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are crisp-tender and vibrant in color. This adds wonderful texture to your Chicken and Vegetables Skillet.
Step 4: Deglaze
Once the vegetables are cooked, pour in the chicken broth while scraping up the flavorful browned bits from the skillet with a wooden spoon. The broth will help enhance the flavors of your Chicken and Vegetables Skillet. Allow the mixture to simmer for a minute to incorporate the delicious goodness.
Step 5: Combine
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring gently to combine all the ingredients. Let everything warm through for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring the flavors meld together beautifully. Keep an eye out for the broth to slightly thicken; this means everything is ready to serve.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for an added burst of flavor. You can serve the Chicken and Vegetables Skillet straight from the pan for a rustic feel or plate it for a more polished presentation. Enjoy this wholesome meal with loved ones!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken and Vegetables Skillet
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the skillet has cooled completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Portion out for easy meals, and label with the date for reference.
Thawing: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This will keep the chicken and vegetables juicy and flavorful.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist and delicious. Enjoy your Chicken and Vegetables Skillet once again!
What to Serve with Chicken and Vegetables Skillet
This delightful one-pan dish comes alive when complemented with vibrant sides that balance flavors and textures perfectly.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Provide a rich, buttery contrast to the savory chicken and veggies, making every bite feel indulgent. The creamy texture pairs beautifully, creating a comforting element to your meal.
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Fluffy Quinoa: A light, nutty grain that adds protein and fiber. It effortlessly absorbs flavors from the skillet, making it a heart-healthy alternative that keeps you satisfied.
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Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery goodness adds a crunchy bite that enhances the entire dining experience. Perfect for scooping up the tasty broth from your dish!
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Fresh Garden Salad: Bright, crunchy greens tossed with a zesty dressing will elevate your meal. The freshness of vegetables like cucumbers and tomatoes offers a refreshing counterpoint to the hearty skillet.
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Roasted Asparagus: Tender spears roasted to perfection lend a slightly charred flavor that complements the dish wonderfully, while their vibrant green color adds visual appeal.
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Herb-Infused Rice: Steamed rice sprinkled with fresh herbs adds a fragrant touch to your plate. The lightness of the rice makes it an ideal partner to soak up all the deliciousness from the Chicken and Vegetables Skillet.
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Red Wine: A glass of light-bodied red wine pairs beautifully with the dish's warmth while its acidity balances the savory flavors. A delightful sip to enjoy as you indulge!
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Fruit Sorbet: A refreshing dessert that cleanses the palate after a satisfying meal. The fruity sweetness provides a perfect ending to your culinary experience, leaving you feeling refreshed.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken and Vegetables Skillet meals are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prep the chicken by cutting it into bite-sized pieces and seasoning it, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Similarly, wash and chop the vegetables—broccoli, zucchini, bell peppers, and onion—up to 3 days in advance and keep them in an airtight container. When you're ready to cook, simply heat olive oil in your skillet, add the seasoned chicken, then continue with the sautéing of the veggies and broth as per the recipe. This way, you'll have a delicious dinner ready with minimal effort and just as tasty as if you made it from scratch!
Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Variations
Feel free to personalize your dish with these delightful twists and substitutions that tantalize the taste buds!
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Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with chickpeas or lentils for a hearty, plant-based meal that’s still filling. Just simmer until heated through.
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Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give your skillet a nice kick. Spice lovers will appreciate this zesty twist!
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Seasonal Veggies: Use seasonal vegetables such as asparagus or spinach to keep things fresh and exciting. Your skillet can change with the seasons!
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Zesty Citrus: Squeeze fresh lemon or lime juice over the dish just before serving for a refreshing brightness. It enhances flavors beautifully and adds a zesty zing.
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Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt at the end to create a rich and creamy sauce. This comforting variation will impress!
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Herb Medley: Experiment with different herbs like dill, thyme, or tarragon for a unique flavor profile. Each herb brings its character to the dish!
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Nutty Crunch: Toss in toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts for an unexpected crunch and nutty flavor to complement your chicken and vegetables.
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Savory Glaze: Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or soy sauce to deepen the savory notes of your skillet. It's a simple way to elevate the dish!
These variations not only allow you to play with flavors, but they also cater to different dietary needs and preferences—all while keeping that comforting essence of your Chicken and Vegetables Skillet intact! Happy cooking!
Helpful Tricks for Chicken and Vegetables Skillet
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Searing Success: Make sure the skillet is hot before adding chicken. This prevents it from steaming and ensures that perfect golden-brown crust.
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Veggie Order: Add vegetables based on their cooking time; start with onions and broccoli, followed by zucchini and bell peppers, for even tenderness and flavor.
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Fresh Finish: Add fresh herbs like parsley just before serving. This brightens the dish and keeps the flavors vibrant, enhancing your Chicken and Vegetables Skillet.
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Broth Boost: Experiment with different broths or add a splash of white wine for an extra layer of flavor, but don't forget to scrape up those yummy brown bits!
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Batch Cooking: If making leftovers, avoid mixing in the broth completely if you plan to reheat; this helps retain the dish's texture.
Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe vegetables for this skillet?
Absolutely! When choosing vegetables, look for vibrant colors and firm textures. For instance, broccoli should be deep green and firm without dark spots all over, while bell peppers should be smooth with unblemished skin. I often select zucchini that feels slightly heavy for its size, indicating freshness. Sticking to seasonal vegetables also guarantees flavor and better prices!
How should leftover Chicken and Vegetables Skillet be stored?
Very simply! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the dish cool completely before sealing, as this helps maintain its quality. If you plan to keep it longer, consider transferring it to a freezer-safe container instead.
Can I freeze Chicken and Vegetables Skillet for later use?
Absolutely! You can freeze your Chicken and Vegetables Skillet in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. First, divide it into individual portions to make reheating easier. When ready to enjoy it again, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator, and it will taste delightful!
What if my chicken doesn’t brown properly?
Don't worry! If your chicken isn’t browning, it might be due to overcrowding the skillet, which causes steaming instead of searing. To fix this, cook the chicken in batches, giving each piece just enough space to sizzle. Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken to achieve that golden, crispy crust you’re after!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Certainly! This Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is naturally gluten-free and can easily be made dairy-free as well. If allergies are a concern, you can swap out any ingredients; for instance, turn to olive oil and vegetable broth for those avoiding certain allergens. Always check spice labels to ensure they meet dietary needs. It’s great for everyone, including family and friends!
How do I ensure the vegetables are cooked perfectly in this recipe?
For perfectly cooked vegetables, start by adding the harder ones like onions and broccoli first, as they take longer to become tender. After a few minutes, add zucchini and bell peppers, which only need about 5-7 minutes to become crisp-tender. Stir frequently to promote even cooking and color. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a beautiful medley of veggies in no time!
Quick and Easy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Dinner
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Chicken: Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, and half of the spice mix. Drizzle olive oil and set aside.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add chicken and sear for 7-10 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Cook Vegetables: In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed, then add onion, broccoli, zucchini, and bell peppers. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until crisp-tender.
- Deglaze: Pour in chicken broth and scrape up browned bits. Simmer for a minute.
- Combine: Return cooked chicken to the skillet and mix gently for 2-3 minutes to warm through.
- Garnish & Serve: Top with fresh parsley and serve directly from the pan or plate it.
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