One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet

This One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is the perfect quick and easy meal for busy weeknights. With tender, juicy chicken, colorful vegetables, and a flavorful blend of herbs, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes and requires minimal cleanup. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a healthy, satisfying meal, this recipe has you covered. It’s packed with nutrients and flavors, making it a well-rounded dish that everyone will enjoy. The best part? It’s all made in one skillet, so you don’t have to worry about washing multiple pots and pans. With a simple yet delicious combination of fresh vegetables and lean protein, this skillet meal is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy evenings when you need dinner fast.

2. One Pot Meal

Everything is cooked in a single skillet, which means minimal cleanup, leaving you with more time to relax.

3. Healthy and Nutritious

Packed with lean chicken and fresh vegetables, this dish is low in calories but high in vitamins, fiber, and protein.

4. Customizable

You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences, making this recipe highly versatile.

5. Family-Friendly

With its vibrant colors and delicious flavors, this skillet meal is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Olive oil
• Onion
• Garlic
• Bell pepper
• Zucchini
• Cherry tomatoes
• Dried oregano
• Dried basil
• Salt and pepper

Variations

• Add Other Vegetables: You can include other vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
• Different Protein: Swap the chicken for turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Add Cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheese (like mozzarella or Parmesan) on top during the last few minutes of cooking for a creamy, cheesy finish.
• Use Fresh Herbs: If you prefer fresh herbs, use fresh basil and oregano instead of dried for an added burst of flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Heat Olive Oil

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm up before adding the chicken.

Step 2: Cook Chicken

Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned on all sides. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Once the chicken is browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Stir in the chopped bell pepper, sliced zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Mix everything together until the vegetables are evenly distributed with the chicken.

Step 5: Season

Sprinkle the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Stir to coat the chicken and vegetables with the seasonings.

Step 6: Simmer

Cover the skillet with a lid and let everything simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is cooked through and the flavors have melded together, remove from heat and serve hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: If your skillet is too small, cook the chicken in batches to ensure even browning.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and garlic can really elevate the flavor of this dish.
• Control the Heat: If the skillet gets too hot and the ingredients start to burn, lower the heat and let it simmer slowly.
• Keep the Lid On: Covering the skillet helps the chicken stay juicy and allows the vegetables to cook evenly.
• Adjust Cooking Time: If you’re using larger chicken pieces, you may need to cook them a little longer. Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

How to Serve

This One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is a meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. For a lighter meal, pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed rice.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftovers cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the skillet or microwave before serving.

Freezing

You can freeze the chicken and vegetable mixture for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, simply place the leftovers in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also microwave it in a covered dish for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in chicken?

For best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts as they cook faster and are easier to cut into bite-sized pieces. Bone-in chicken may take longer to cook.

2. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables such as carrots, green beans, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

3. Can I use frozen vegetables?

Fresh vegetables work best for this recipe, but you can use frozen vegetables in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and drain them first to prevent excess moisture.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

5. What can I serve this with?

This dish is delicious on its own but can be paired with rice, quinoa, or a side salad for a more complete meal.

6. Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Yes, you can sprinkle some cheese on top during the last few minutes of cooking, such as mozzarella, cheddar, or Parmesan.

7. Can I use a different protein?

Yes, turkey breast, shrimp, or even tofu can be used in place of chicken in this recipe.

8. Can I use fresh garlic instead of minced garlic?

Yes, fresh garlic can be used in place of minced garlic. Just make sure to adjust the quantity according to your preference.

9. Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes, you can add red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce to give it a spicy kick.

10. How do I prevent the chicken from getting dry?

To keep the chicken juicy, don’t overcook it. Once it’s browned on all sides, cover the skillet and simmer gently until cooked through.

Conclusion

One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is a simple, healthy, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy days or weeknight dinners. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and packed with protein and vegetables. The best part is that it’s all made in one pan, reducing both preparation time and cleanup. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is sure to satisfy. With endless variations and room for creativity, it’s a dish that you’ll want to make again and again!

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