Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe

This Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe is a quick and delicious way to enjoy a wholesome meal packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, this dish features tender chicken infused with garlic and a mix of colorful, crisp-tender vegetables. It’s not just easy to make but also offers a healthy balance of protein and nutrients, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 35 minutes, this recipe is perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Flavorful Medley: The combination of spices and fresh vegetables elevates the taste, ensuring everyone at the table will love it.
• Versatile Ingredients: Substitute any vegetables based on what you have on hand, making it adaptable to your preferences.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup is required since everything cooks in one skillet, saving you time and effort.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable. Here are the essential tools you’ll need to whip up this Chicken and Vegetables Skillet.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A large skillet helps in evenly cooking the chicken and vegetables while allowing enough space for sautéing.
• Mixing Bowl: Useful for combining spices and marinating chicken, ensuring flavors are well distributed.

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Ingredients

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 Cooking

• ¼ cup low sodium chicken broth (or substitute with dry white apple vinegar, apple juice, or water)
• chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces and season with salt and pepper; set aside.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, paprika, and chili powder; take half of this seasoning mix and sprinkle it over the chicken.
3. Add ½ tablespoon olive oil to the chicken. Toss until evenly coated.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the hot oil. Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes until browned on all sides and cooked through.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet, place it on a plate, cover it to keep warm.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Return the skillet to heat; add remaining olive oil.
2. Stir in thinly sliced onions; cook for about 2 minutes until softened.
3. Add broccoli florets, zucchini slices, yellow bell pepper chunks, and red bell pepper chunks. If needed, add more oil.
4. Season with remaining spice mix plus salt and pepper; cook for another 4 to 6 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Stir in low sodium chicken broth or your chosen substitute.
2. Return cooked chicken along with any juices back to the skillet; stir gently to combine for about a minute.
3. Remove from heat; taste for seasoning adjustments.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving hot!

This delightful Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe is not only satisfying but also nutritious! Enjoy your delicious meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table!

How to Serve Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe

Serving your Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is both easy and versatile. This dish pairs well with a variety of sides and garnishes to enhance its flavors. Here are some suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Basil or Cilantro: Add chopped basil or cilantro for an aromatic twist.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Steamed Rice: Serve the skillet over fluffy steamed rice to soak up the flavorful juices.
• Quinoa: Use quinoa for a protein-packed alternative that complements the dish perfectly.

With a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken.
• Cucumber Tomato Salad: Refreshing cucumbers and juicy tomatoes tossed in olive oil add a crisp texture.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Butter Lettuce Wraps: Scoop the chicken mixture into butter lettuce leaves for a fun, low-carb option.
• Collard Greens Wraps: For a heartier wrap, use blanched collard greens.

How to Perfect Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe

Perfecting your Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is all about technique and flavor balance. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out great every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables not only taste better but also retain more nutrients.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect browning on the chicken.
• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with spices; they enhance flavors significantly. Adjust according to your preference.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps retain its juices, making it more tender.
• Adjust Cooking Time for Veggies: Keep an eye on vegetables; you want them crisp-tender, not mushy.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to try different herbs or spice blends based on what you have at home.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken and Vegetables Skillet can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that meshes well with the skillet.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a vibrant color and complements the flavors nicely.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy provide a sweet contrast to savory chicken.
4. Cauliflower Rice: Low-carb cauliflower rice is an excellent base that absorbs all the delicious juices from the skillet.
5. Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce from your plate.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness that balances out the hearty skillet dish.
7. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled until slightly charred brings summer vibes to your dinner table.
8. Sautéed Green Beans: Quick sautéed green beans seasoned with lemon zest offer a bright flavor profile alongside your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland results. Always ensure to coat your chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and spices before cooking.
• Overcrowding the skillet: Adding too much chicken or vegetables at once can cause steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if necessary to allow for even cooking.
• Neglecting the vegetable textures: Cooking vegetables for too long can make them mushy. Aim for a crisp-tender texture by keeping an eye on cooking times and stirring occasionally.
• Using low-quality broth: A poor-quality broth can diminish flavor. Choose a good low sodium chicken broth or flavorful alternatives like apple juice or vinegar for depth.
• Not letting it rest: Serving immediately after cooking can lead to dry chicken. Let it sit covered for a few minutes before serving to retain moisture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil; heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe dish; cover and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe.

What vegetables work best in a Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe?

You can use various vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, broccoli, carrots, or snap peas. Choose seasonal veggies for maximum freshness.

Can I customize the Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite spices or swap out vegetables based on your preference. This recipe is versatile!

How long does it take to make this Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe?

The total time is about 35 minutes, including preparation and cooking. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!

Can I use frozen chicken or vegetables?

Yes, you can use frozen options! Just ensure that they are fully thawed before cooking for even results.

Final Thoughts

The Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe is not only easy to prepare but also flavorful and adaptable. You can customize it with different spices or veggies based on seasonality or personal preference. Give this healthy meal a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!