Welcome to my kitchen, where the aroma of a sizzling Chicken and Veggie Skillet fills the air! This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of vibrant colors and flavors that come together in one pan. I remember the first time I made this for my family; the way the chicken browned perfectly while the vegetables danced in the heat was pure magic. The Chicken and Veggie Skillet is a go-to recipe for busy weeknights, offering a healthy, delicious option that everyone loves. Let’s dive into this delightful dish that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy!
What is Chicken and Veggie Skillet?
The Chicken and Veggie Skillet is a delightful one-pan meal that brings together tender chicken and a colorful medley of vegetables. This dish is rooted in American cuisine, where the concept of skillet cooking has been embraced for its simplicity and efficiency. Originating from the need for quick, nutritious meals, it reflects a global influence of using fresh, seasonal ingredients to create satisfying dishes. With its vibrant colors and hearty flavors, this recipe is perfect for those who appreciate wholesome cooking without the fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Veggie Skillet
- Convenience: A one-pan meal means less cleanup and more time to enjoy with family.
- Taste: The combination of savory chicken and fresh veggies creates a delicious flavor explosion.
- Health Benefits: Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a nutritious choice for any meal.
- Family Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the colorful presentation and tasty bites.
Who It’s For
This Chicken and Veggie Skillet is ideal for busy families looking for quick, healthy meals. It’s also perfect for health-conscious cooks who want to incorporate more vegetables into their diets. Food lovers who enjoy vibrant, flavorful dishes will find this recipe a delightful addition to their culinary repertoire.
When to Cook It
Cook this Chicken and Veggie Skillet on weeknights when time is tight, or serve it during family gatherings for a comforting meal. It’s also great for meal prep, making it a versatile option for any occasion, from casual dinners to special celebrations.
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced: The star of the dish, providing lean protein. You can substitute with turkey breast or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- 2 cups mixed vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots adds nutrition and flavor. Feel free to use any seasonal vegetables like zucchini or snap peas.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This healthy fat helps to cook the chicken and veggies while adding richness. Avocado oil is a great alternative.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For a savory depth of flavor. Fresh minced garlic can be used for a more robust taste.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds sweetness and complexity. You can swap it with finely chopped onions if you prefer.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
- Heat the olive oil: In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers.
- Add the chicken: Carefully place the diced chicken in the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Stir in the vegetables: Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the veggies are tender and vibrant.
- Season the dish: Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine, allowing the flavors to meld for a minute.
- Serve hot: Remove from heat and serve immediately, enjoying the colorful presentation and delicious aroma!
- Stevia: A natural sweetener with zero calories, perfect for adding sweetness without raising blood sugar.
- Monk fruit: Another natural option that provides sweetness without calories or carbs.
- Allulose: A low-calorie sugar that tastes like sugar but has minimal impact on blood glucose levels.
It’s best to avoid honey or maple syrup, as they can spike blood sugar levels significantly.
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Serving plates
- Prep Ahead: Many chefs recommend prepping your ingredients in advance. Chop your vegetables and dice the chicken the night before to save time during cooking.
- Use High Heat: Cooking on medium-high heat helps to achieve a nice sear on the chicken, locking in moisture and flavor, according to Chef Gordon Ramsay.
- Season in Layers: Chef Ina Garten suggests seasoning each component as you cook. This builds depth of flavor, making your Chicken and Veggie Skillet even more delicious.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Renowned chef Jamie Oliver advises against overcrowding the skillet. This ensures even cooking and prevents steaming, which can make your chicken rubbery.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving can elevate the dish, as noted by Chef Thomas Keller.
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the Chicken and Veggie Skillet in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Thawing: When ready to eat, thaw frozen skillet in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
- Adding Moisture: If the dish seems dry after reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to restore moisture.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can lead to dryness. Aim for a golden brown color and ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Not Prepping Ingredients: Skipping the prep work can slow you down. Take a few minutes to chop your veggies and dice the chicken before you start cooking.
- Using Stale Spices: Old spices can dull the flavor of your dish. Always check the freshness of your spices and replace them if they’ve lost their aroma.
- Overcrowding the Skillet: Adding too many ingredients at once can cause steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect sear.
- Skipping Seasoning: Neglecting to season your dish can result in bland flavors. Don’t be shy with salt and pepper, and consider adding herbs for extra depth.
Q: Can I use frozen vegetables in my Chicken and Veggie Skillet?
Yes, frozen vegetables work well in this Chicken and Veggie Skillet. Just add them directly to the skillet without thawing.
Q: Is Chicken and Veggie Skillet a healthy meal option?
Yes, the Chicken and Veggie Skillet is a healthy meal packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious choice for any diet.
Q: Can I make Chicken and Veggie Skillet ahead of time?
It depends. You can prep the ingredients in advance, but it’s best to cook it fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
Q: Is Chicken and Veggie Skillet suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this Chicken and Veggie Skillet is perfect for meal prep. It stores well in the fridge and can be reheated easily.
Q: Can I substitute chicken with another protein in the Chicken and Veggie Skillet?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian version of the Chicken and Veggie Skillet.
The Chicken and Veggie Skillet is not just a meal; it’s a canvas for creativity in your kitchen. With its vibrant colors and wholesome ingredients, it’s a dish that brings families together around the table. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! If you try it, please share your thoughts in the comments below or share this recipe with your friends and family. Happy cooking!
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Chicken and Veggie Skillet
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A delicious and healthy one-pan meal featuring chicken and a variety of vegetables.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
- Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
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Notes
- Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand.
- This dish can be served over rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Chicken and Veggie Skillet