Chicken Vegetables Skillet

The Chicken Vegetables Skillet is the ultimate one-pan wonder. Bursting with vibrant vegetables and juicy, seasoned chicken, it’s a delicious way to enjoy a balanced meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. The dish gets its depth from a blend of garlic, Italian herbs, and lemon juice, bringing a zingy brightness to each bite.

Ideal for busy weeknights or fuss-free meal prep, this recipe makes healthy eating simple and satisfying. The blend of tender-crisp veggies and savory chicken is not only nutritious but also incredibly versatile. Serve it as is, over rice, or next to mashed potatoes for a complete meal. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or protein swaps.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

• 1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons

• 1 cup broccoli florets

• 1/2 red onion, sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika.

3. Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 6–8 minutes, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed, then sauté garlic for 1 minute.

5. Add bell peppers, zucchini, broccoli, and red onion. Cook for 6–8 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.

6. Return chicken to the skillet and mix well with the veggies.

7. Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle Parmesan cheese if using.

8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes

Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Chicken Vegetables Skillet – A Balanced One-Pan Wonder for Everyday Cooking

In today’s fast-paced world, there’s a growing need for recipes that are not only healthy and delicious but also simple to prepare and easy to clean up. Enter the Chicken Vegetables Skillet a vibrant, one-pan meal that checks all the boxes. Whether you’re a busy parent, a student on the go, or someone simply looking for a flavorful yet health-conscious meal, this dish delivers nourishment, color, and convenience in every bite.

This chicken and vegetables skillet is loaded with lean protein, nutrient-rich vegetables, and a handful of pantry-friendly seasonings that elevate everything in the pan. With minimal prep and even less cleanup, it’s no wonder this dish has become a staple in kitchens around the world. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep for the week ahead, or as a quick lunch option, this skillet is an essential go-to recipe for anyone looking to eat well without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why This Dish Works

The real magic of the Chicken Vegetables Skillet lies in its versatility and balance. It offers the perfect blend of macronutrients, lean protein from chicken, fiber and vitamins from vegetables, and a modest amount of healthy fat from olive oil. It’s naturally gluten-free, low in carbohydrates, and fits into most dietary lifestyles, including paleo, Whole30, and high-protein meal plans.

Let’s break down what makes this recipe a winning choice for home cooks of all levels:

1. Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

You don’t need fancy or expensive ingredients to make a nutritious meal. This dish calls for:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs if preferred)

• A mix of colorful vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, broccoli, and onion)

• Seasonings like garlic powder, Italian herbs, smoked paprika, and a splash of lemon juice for brightness

These basic yet flavorful components come together to create a dish that is both visually stunning and satisfying to eat.

2. One-Pan Convenience

All the ingredients are cooked in a single skillet, which means less time doing dishes and more time enjoying your meal. The layered cooking method, first searing the chicken, then sautéing the veggies, allows each component to maintain its texture and flavor while developing a beautifully savory pan sauce.

3. Flexible & Customizable

The core of this dish is adaptable to whatever vegetables are in season or available in your fridge. Some delicious swaps and additions include:

• Cherry tomatoes for a juicy pop

• Mushrooms for umami

• Spinach or kale for extra greens

• Carrots for sweetness and crunch

You can also use different proteins such as shrimp, turkey, tofu, or even leftover rotisserie chicken. Want to add carbs? Serve it with quinoa, brown rice, or a slice of crusty whole grain bread for a complete meal.

4. Nutrient-Dense and Filling

This recipe is not just low in calories, about 310 kcal per serving, but also incredibly filling. The fiber from the vegetables keeps you full for longer, while the protein-rich chicken supports muscle health and energy levels. The olive oil adds healthy fats, and lemon juice provides a burst of vitamin C.

Cooking Tips for Success

• Cut Evenly: Try to keep the chicken pieces and vegetables cut to similar sizes to ensure even cooking.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: This helps to properly sear the chicken and allows the veggies to sauté rather than steam.

• Use Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs work wonderfully, finishing with fresh parsley or basil adds extra freshness and color.

• Deglaze for More Flavor: After cooking the chicken, add a splash of broth or white wine to loosen the flavorful browned bits (fond) on the pan.

How to Meal Prep with This Recipe

The Chicken Vegetables Skillet is an ideal candidate for meal prepping. Once cooked, let the dish cool completely and portion it into airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. You can even freeze it (minus the fresh herbs and lemon juice) for up to a month. Add a fresh drizzle of lemon juice before serving to bring the flavor back to life.

Ideal Pairings and Serving Ideas

Though this skillet is hearty enough to stand alone, it pairs well with a variety of side dishes depending on your dietary goals or preferences:

• Whole Grains: Serve over cooked brown rice, farro, or couscous for added fiber and energy.

• Low-Carb Option: Spoon it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a light but satisfying meal.

• Family-Style Meal: Plate it with mashed potatoes or garlic bread for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner.

For an extra touch, sprinkle with shredded Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese. A dollop of tzatziki or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can also bring new dimensions of flavor.

Who Will Love This Recipe?

This recipe is made for:

• Parents who need fast, kid-approved meals.

• Fitness lovers wanting protein-packed, clean meals.

• Office workers looking for meal-prep-friendly dishes.

• Foodies who appreciate fresh, colorful ingredients.

• Anyone trying to eat more vegetables without sacrificing flavor.

Nutritional Value Overview (Per Serving)

• Calories: 310 kcal

• Protein: 34g

• Fat: 13g

• Carbohydrates: 12g

• Fiber: 4g

• Sugar: 6g

• Gluten-Free: Yes

• Low-Carb: Yes

• Dairy-Free: Optional, depending on whether you include Parmesan

Cooking Equipment You’ll Need

To get started, you only need a few basics:

• Large nonstick or cast iron skillet

• Sharp knife

• Cutting board

• Spatula or wooden spoon

Optional tools include a garlic press, citrus juicer, and food scale (for portioning protein if meal prepping).

Make It Your Own: Variations to Try

Here are some fun ways to remix the Chicken Vegetables Skillet:

• Tex-Mex Style: Use chili powder, cumin, and top with avocado and salsa.

• Asian-Inspired: Swap Italian seasoning for ginger and soy sauce; add bok choy and snap peas.

• Mediterranean Flair: Include olives, cherry tomatoes, and fresh oregano or dill.

With so many flavor directions to explore, this dish never gets boring.

Conclusion

The Chicken Vegetables Skillet is the ultimate everyday meal, quick, healthy, and endlessly adaptable. With just one pan and a few fresh ingredients, you can create a flavorful dinner that’s both satisfying and nourishing. It’s the perfect recipe to keep on rotation throughout the week, whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family. Make it once, and you’ll understand why this simple skillet is such a trusted favorite in countless households.

From its wholesome ingredients to its ease of preparation, this one-pan meal is a testament to how simple cooking can yield the most delicious results. Whether you’re enjoying it straight from the skillet or plating it beautifully for a dinner guest, this Chicken Vegetables Skillet is sure to become one of your go-to recipes.