Chicken Vegetable Skillet: Easy One-Pan Recipe

If you’re looking for a meal that’s not only vibrant and delicious but also easy to whip up on a busy weeknight, then I have just the recipe for you! This Chicken Vegetable Skillet: Easy One-Pan Recipe is a family favorite in my house. It’s loaded with tender chicken, colorful veggies, and aromatic Italian seasonings that fill your kitchen with warmth and inviting scents. Plus, it comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze – perfect for those hectic evenings when you want something healthy without the fuss.

This dish is great for all occasions. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining friends, this skillet is sure to impress. The combination of fresh ingredients and hearty flavors makes it a comforting meal that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 50 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: You only need one skillet, which means less cleanup for you!
• Packed with Nutrients: With a variety of colorful vegetables, this dish is not only delicious but also nutritious.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out the veggies or proteins based on what you have at home.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the mix of chicken and veggies, making it an easy way to sneak in some healthy choices.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about this Chicken Vegetable Skillet is how simple and wholesome the ingredients are! You can easily find them at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

For the Vegetables

• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 1 yellow squash, chopped
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup sliced carrots

For the Base

• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed

For Cooking

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For Serving

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Cooked rice or quinoa (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this Chicken Vegetable Skillet is its flexibility! Here are some fun variations to keep things interesting:

• Swap the protein: Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Change up the veggies: Toss in your favorite seasonal vegetables like asparagus or spinach!
• Add some grains: Mix in cooked quinoa or farro for added texture and nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add more red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños!

How to Make Chicken Vegetable Skillet: Easy One-Pan Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken cubes dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps achieve that lovely golden-brown color when cooking. Season them well with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning to infuse them with flavor.

Step 2: Prep the Vegetables

Chop all your vegetables into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly. Mince the garlic too—this will add wonderful aroma during sautéing! Preparing everything ahead of time makes cooking smooth and enjoyable.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your seasoned chicken in a single layer—this ensures even cooking. Sauté until browned and cooked through; this should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In that same skillet (the one now filled with delicious chicken flavors), add another tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in your onions first; cooking them for about 3-5 minutes until softened brings out their sweetness. Add minced garlic next—it only needs about a minute before it becomes fragrant! Now add bell peppers and sliced carrots; cook until slightly softened before adding zucchini, yellow squash, and broccoli florets.

Step 5: Combine

Stir in those juicy diced tomatoes along with chickpeas. Season again with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes if you want some heat! It’s all coming together beautifully.

Step 6: Simmer

Now return that deliciously cooked chicken back to your skillet. Stir everything together gently. Reduce the heat to low, cover it up, and let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes until all those flavors meld together perfectly.

Step 7: Serve

Finally! Your Chicken Vegetable Skillet is ready to shine on your dinner table. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve hot—either on its own or over rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.

Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Vegetable Skillet: Easy One-Pan Recipe

Creating a delicious Chicken Vegetable Skillet is a breeze with these helpful tips that will ensure you achieve the best flavors and textures!

• Prep Your Ingredients First: Taking the time to chop and organize your vegetables before cooking helps streamline the cooking process and ensures everything cooks evenly.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking the chicken in batches if necessary allows it to brown nicely, creating a flavorful crust rather than steaming. This enhances the overall taste of your dish.

• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Everyone has different preferences, so feel free to adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning according to your taste. You can always add more, but it’s hard to fix an over-seasoned dish!

• Use Fresh Vegetables: Opt for fresh veggies whenever possible for better flavor and added nutrients. Frozen vegetables can work in a pinch but may lose some texture.

• Experiment with Additions: Feel free to mix in other vegetables or proteins based on what you have on hand. Spinach, kale, or even chickpeas can add extra nutrition and flavor to your skillet.

How to Serve Chicken Vegetable Skillet: Easy One-Pan Recipe

When it comes to serving this delightful dish, presentation matters! Here are some ideas to make your Chicken Vegetable Skillet shine on the dining table.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to add a splash of citrusy brightness that complements the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Cooked Rice: A fluffy bed of rice absorbs all those delicious juices from the skillet, making every bite even more satisfying.
• Quinoa: This protein-packed grain is a fantastic alternative that adds a nutty flavor and pairs perfectly with the vibrant vegetables.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce, adding another layer of flavor.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the warm skillet meal.

Enjoy your hearty and colorful Chicken Vegetable Skillet as it brings warmth and joy to your dinner table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Vegetable Skillet is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious and healthy meals throughout the week. Preparing it in advance means you can save time on busy days while still enjoying a wholesome dish.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the skillet to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool down fully.
• Divide into individual portions and place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring occasionally until heated evenly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this Chicken Vegetable Skillet!

Can I use other vegetables in the Chicken Vegetable Skillet?

Absolutely! Feel free to replace or add any of your favorite vegetables such as spinach, green beans, or asparagus. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the veggies you choose.

How long does it take to prepare the Chicken Vegetable Skillet?

This easy one-pan recipe takes about 20 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, making it a quick and satisfying meal option for busy weeknights!

Can I make the Chicken Vegetable Skillet ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can store leftovers in the fridge or freeze portions for later enjoyment.

What can I serve with the Chicken Vegetable Skillet?

You can serve this dish on its own or over rice, quinoa, cauliflower rice, or zucchini noodles for a filling meal.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this vibrant Chicken Vegetable Skillet as much as I do! It’s not only a beautiful dish bursting with flavors but also a fantastic way to incorporate more veggies into your diet. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend family dinner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!