Savory Chicken and Vegetable Skillet Recipe

Indulge in the delightful flavors of a wholesome and colorful meal with this Chicken and Vegetables Skillet recipe. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something hearty yet light, this dish brings together tender chicken pieces with a medley of vibrant veggies. From the caramelized edges of the peppers to the crispy broccoli florets, every bite is a burst of savory goodness.

I stumbled upon this recipe on a particularly hectic day, and it quickly became a household favorite. The blend of spices and the fresh produce create a symphony of flavors that never fails to impress. Whether it’s a post-sports practice meal or a comforting dinner after a long day, this skillet never disappoints. Plus, it’s a hit with the little ones too—my daughter always manages to sneak extra crispy broccoli off my plate!

With a versatile nature, this Chicken and Vegetables Skillet allows you to get creative with your choice of ingredients. Whether you opt for chicken thighs for a richer taste or swap in tofu for a vegetarian twist, the possibilities are endless. So, gather your favorite produce, savor the aroma, and let this dish bring everyone together around the dinner table.

Quick Benefits

• Quick and easy meal option for busy nights
• Colorful and vibrant dish packed with essential nutrients
• Versatile recipe that can be adapted based on personal preferences and seasonal produce
• Leftovers can be easily stored and reheated for a convenient meal option

Why You’ll Love This Savory Chicken and Vegetable Skillet Recipe Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy nights when you need a hearty meal ready in under 30 minutes without compromising on flavor or nutrition.
• Colorful and Vibrant: The vibrant colors of the peppers, broccoli, and zucchini make this dish visually appealing and appetizing.
• Versatile and Customizable: Swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or your preferences, making it adaptable to different tastes and dietary needs.
• Family Favorite: Loved by family and friends, this recipe is a hit with kids and picky eaters, and leftovers can be repurposed into delicious meals like quesadillas.
• Healthy and Balanced: Packed with lean protein, a variety of vegetables, and aromatic spices, this skillet meal is both delicious and nutritious.
• Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly: Enjoy as a quick weekday meal or make a batch ahead of time for easy reheating, keeping well in the fridge for up to four days or freezing for up to three months.
• Herbs and Spices Infused: The blend of spices like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, and chili powder adds depth of flavor to the dish.
• Authentic and Comforting: Inspired by classic skillet meals found in kitchens around the world, this recipe offers a taste of homey comfort with a modern twist.

Ingredients for Savory Chicken and Vegetable Skillet Recipe

Protein

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces

Fats and Oils

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

Seasonings

• Black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt, to taste

Vegetables

• 1 small head broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets
• 1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped into 1-inch pieces
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped into 1-inch pieces

Liquids

• 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth

Garnish

• Chopped fresh parsley, optional

Pro Tips for Savory Chicken and Vegetable Skillet Recipe

To ensure your chicken stays juicy and flavorful, cook it just until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes, then remove it from the skillet to prevent overcooking. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great option for extra juiciness and flavor in this dish.

For variety, consider using carrots, snap peas, mushrooms, or asparagus in place of or in addition to the suggested vegetables. Be mindful of adjusting the cooking times to maintain a bright, tender-crisp texture in all the veggies.

When sautéing, work in stages by adding your vegetables gradually. This method helps each ingredient cook evenly and reach the desired texture without becoming overcooked. Remember, dried thyme and rosemary are excellent for flavoring the chicken and veggies, and finishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a beautiful touch to the dish.

How to Make Savory Chicken and Vegetable Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Season Chicken

Dice chicken into 1-inch pieces and season with salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Prepare Spice Mixture

Mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and chili powder in a small bowl. Sprinkle half of the seasoning over the chicken and toss with 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil until well coated.

Step 3: Sauté Chicken

In a 12-inch skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook seasoned chicken pieces for 6 to 8 minutes until browned and cooked through, stirring occasionally. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Cook Aromatics

Pour the remaining olive oil into the skillet. Cook sliced onion for 2 minutes until starting to soften.

Step 5: Cook Vegetables

Add broccoli florets, zucchini, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper. Sprinkle with remaining seasoning mixture and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are crisp-tender.

Step 6: Deglaze and Finish

Add chicken broth to the skillet and deglaze any browned bits. Return chicken to the pan, stir to combine, and cook for 1 minute until heated through.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Take the skillet off the heat. Optionally, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving hot.

Storage Tips

After preparing the vibrant chicken and vegetables skillet, let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to maintain juiciness. You can also enjoy this dish cold as a salad topping if preferred.

To freeze the dish, cook the recipe through until just before adding the fresh parsley. Let it cool, pack it in a freezer-friendly container, and freeze for up to three months. Defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth. Stir in fresh herbs just before serving to refresh the flavors. This versatile recipe allows for adaptations based on your favorite flavors or available produce, making it a convenient and delicious option for busy weeknights.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a different protein than chicken, consider using turkey breast, chickpeas, or tofu as a vegetarian option. Additionally, you can switch up the vegetables based on what you have on hand or prefer. Substitute cauliflower for broccoli, snap peas for a touch of sweetness, or try adding in asparagus, mushrooms, or summer squash for variety. Frozen bell peppers can be used if fresh ones are not available; just pat them dry before adding to the skillet.

To enhance the flavors, feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices. You can add grated Parmesan for extra savoriness or squeeze fresh lemon over the dish for a burst of freshness. Remember to adjust cooking times for different veggies to ensure they stay crisp-tender. This versatile skillet meal allows for creativity in ingredient choices, making it easy to adapt to your taste preferences and what you have in your fridge.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative twist, serve this flavorful Chicken and Vegetables Skillet over a bed of creamy mashed sweet potatoes. The sweetness of the potatoes complements the savory chicken and colorful veggies perfectly, creating a satisfying and well-rounded meal. Top it off with a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese for an extra touch of richness.

Another fun serving suggestion is to turn this skillet into a filling and delicious wrap. Simply spoon the chicken and vegetable mixture onto a large tortilla, add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream, roll it up burrito-style, and enjoy a handheld version of this wholesome dish. This makes for a convenient and portable meal option that is great for lunch on the go or a casual dinner.

FAQs for Savory Chicken and Vegetable Skillet Recipe

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and provide extra juiciness and flavor to the dish.

What other vegetables can I use in this skillet recipe?

Try carrots, snap peas, mushrooms, or asparagus for variety. Adjust cooking times to keep everything crisp-tender.

How should I cook the vegetables to ensure they’re cooked perfectly?

Sauté over medium-high heat and add veggies in stages, cooking just until they reach a bright, tender-crisp texture.

What herbs enhance the flavors of this chicken and vegetables skillet?

Dried thyme and rosemary enhance the chicken and veggies, while a sprinkle of fresh parsley finishes the dish beautifully.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Chicken and Vegetables Skillet recipe is a versatile and colorful dish that brings comfort and nutrition to your table in just under 30 minutes. It’s a perfect go-to meal for busy weeknights or when you want a hearty yet fresh dinner option. The blend of spices, vibrant colors, and the way the flavors come together make this skillet a family favorite in many households.

Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe with your favorite ingredients or what you have on hand. Whether you stick to the classic combination of chicken and veggies or switch things up with different proteins or seasonal produce, let the colors and aromas guide you to a delicious meal. Remember to savor the caramelized edges of the peppers, the crispy broccoli florets, and the blend of spices that make this Chicken and Vegetables Skillet truly special. Enjoy every colorful bite!