Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet

If you’re looking for a quick and healthy dinner that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! This Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet has become a staple in my kitchen. It’s not only packed with vibrant veggies and tender chicken but also comes together in just 35 minutes! Whether it’s a busy weeknight or you have guests over, this dish is perfect for any occasion.

What makes this recipe extra special is how customizable it is. You can switch out the vegetables based on what you have on hand or even add your favorite spices to give it a personal touch. It’s deliciously satisfying while keeping things light and nutritious – truly a win-win!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Whip this up in no time! With just 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a wholesome meal ready in under an hour.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will enjoy this colorful mix of chicken and vegetables. It’s a great way to get kids excited about eating their greens!
• Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever fresh vegetables you have available. This recipe adapts easily to suit your tastes or what’s in your fridge.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make this ahead for an easy lunch or dinner throughout the week. Just reheat and enjoy!
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of herbs and spices creates a delightful taste that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! For this Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet, you’ll need everything fresh and flavorful.

For the Chicken

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• Salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ to ½ teaspoon chili powder

For the Vegetables

• 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cups bite-size broccoli florets
• 1 zucchini, thinly sliced and cut into half-moons
• 1 small yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 1 small red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch chunks

For the Sauce

• ¼ cup low sodium chicken broth (or dry white grape juice, apple juice, or water)
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to make it your own.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or tofu instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Change up the veggies: Use seasonal vegetables like asparagus or snap peas instead of broccoli and bell peppers.
• Add some grain: Serve over cooked quinoa or brown rice for added texture and nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or use spicy paprika!

How to Make Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces, season with salt and pepper, then set aside. This ensures every bite is bursting with flavor!

Step 2: Mix Your Seasonings

In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, paprika, and chili powder. Sprinkle half of this mix over the chicken. This step infuses your protein with delicious flavors before cooking.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Drizzle ½ tablespoon of olive oil over the seasoned chicken. Toss it well so that each piece is evenly coated. This helps in achieving that lovely golden color when cooked.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your chicken pieces and cook for about 6 to 8 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Turning occasionally helps them cook evenly!

Step 5: Set Aside the Chicken

Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover it. This keeps it warm while we prepare those beautiful veggies.

Step 6: Sauté the Onions and Veggies

Return your skillet to the stove with more olive oil if needed. Add onions first; sauté them until they’re soft (about two minutes), then throw in broccoli, zucchini, and bell peppers. Sprinkle with remaining seasoning mix along with salt and pepper; cook until crisp-tender (4-6 minutes).

Step 7: Create a Flavorful Base

Pour in low sodium chicken broth (or your chosen alternative) into the skillet. Stir well to combine all those delicious flavors from earlier.

Step 8: Combine Chicken with Veggies

Return your cooked chicken along with any juices back into the skillet. Give everything a good stir; let it cook together for another minute so all flavors meld perfectly.

Step 9: Taste Test!

Remove from heat; taste your creation! Adjust seasoning if needed – feel free to add more salt or spices according to your preference.

Step 10: Serve It Up

Garnish generously with chopped parsley before serving hot! Enjoy every bite of your Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet – it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet

Creating a delicious and healthy chicken and vegetable skillet is easier than you might think, especially with a few helpful tips!

• Prep Ahead: Spend a little time chopping your vegetables and marinating the chicken ahead of time. This makes cooking quicker during busy weeknights.
• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables. Carrots, snap peas, or asparagus can add variety and nutrition to your meal.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like basil or cilantro at the end can enhance the flavor dramatically, making your dish even more vibrant.
• Watch the Heat: Cooking on medium-high heat helps to get a nice sear on the chicken while keeping the vegetables crisp. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure everything cooks evenly.
• Leftover Magic: Don’t hesitate to use leftovers! This skillet dish is perfect for meal prep; just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

How to Serve Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet

Serving your Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet can be just as fun as cooking it! Here are some presentation ideas that will make your dish look as good as it tastes.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley not only adds color but also freshens up the dish.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon juice over the top just before serving gives a refreshing zing that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile with an extra kick.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: Lightly tossed with lemon vinaigrette, quinoa salad offers a nutty flavor and is packed with protein, making it a great companion.
• Brown Rice: This whole grain option is hearty yet healthy, providing a chewy texture that pairs well with chicken and veggies.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness is a wonderful contrast to savory dishes. Simply toss them with olive oil and herbs before roasting until tender.
• Garlic Bread: A slice of warm garlic bread can balance out the meal’s healthiness while providing a comforting touch that everyone loves.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress your family or guests with this delightful Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy nutritious meals throughout the week. You can cook this dish in advance, store leftovers, or even freeze portions for those busy nights when you need a quick dinner solution.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Portion the cooled chicken and vegetables into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe container and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet!

Can I use different vegetables in the Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out any of the vegetables for your favorites. Carrots, green beans, or snap peas make excellent alternatives that will still keep this dish healthy and delicious.

How can I make this Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet spicier?

To add some heat, increase the amount of chili powder or consider adding crushed red pepper flakes. You can also include spicy bell peppers or a dash of hot sauce while cooking.

Can I meal prep the Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet?

Yes! This dish is fantastic for meal prep. Simply prepare it ahead of time, store it in airtight containers, and enjoy it throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to whip up this Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet! It’s not only simple but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Enjoy making it for yourself or your loved ones—it’s sure to become a new favorite at your dinner table. Happy cooking!