One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet

If you’re looking for a simple, healthy, and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare, the One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is the answer. This recipe brings together juicy chicken breast pieces and a variety of colorful vegetables, all cooked in one pan for minimal cleanup. The combination of fresh ingredients, herbs, and spices creates a delicious, satisfying dish that can be enjoyed any night of the week. Whether you’re a busy professional or a home cook, this one-pot recipe will quickly become a go-to for its ease and versatility.

Not only is this meal packed with lean protein and nutritious veggies, but it’s also incredibly adaptable. You can switch up the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have in your fridge. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time, this dish makes for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in more vegetables while still keeping the meal hearty and filling. The best part? It’s cooked in a single skillet, so cleanup is a breeze!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

With a prep time of just 10 minutes and cooking time of 20 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy nights when you need something fast and delicious.

2. Healthy and Nutritious

Packed with lean chicken and fresh vegetables, this skillet is a great way to get your daily dose of protein and fiber without any added guilt.

3. One-Pan Wonder

Not only is the recipe simple to make, but it’s also cooked in one pan, which means less cleanup. The perfect solution for those who don’t want to spend extra time washing dishes.

4. Customizable

You can easily swap out vegetables based on your preferences or what’s in season. Try adding mushrooms, spinach, or even sweet potatoes to mix things up.

5. Flavorful and Savory

With the aromatic combination of garlic, onion, oregano, and basil, this dish is bursting with Mediterranean-inspired flavors that complement the chicken and vegetables perfectly.

Ingredients

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

Variations

• Vegetable Options: Swap zucchini with eggplant, broccoli, or asparagus for a different flavor profile.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a sliced jalapeño to bring some heat to the dish.
• Protein Alternatives: Try substituting the chicken with turkey breast, tofu, or shrimp for a variation in protein.
• Herb Substitutes: If you don’t have oregano or basil, feel free to use Italian seasoning, thyme, or rosemary to season the dish.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Heat Olive Oil

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.

Step 2: Cook Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onion begins to soften.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Stir in the chopped bell pepper, sliced zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 5: Season

Sprinkle the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper over the chicken and vegetables. Stir to combine and coat the ingredients in the seasonings.

Step 6: Simmer

Cover the skillet and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

Step 7: Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and serve hot, either on its own or with a side of rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Even Cooking: Make sure the chicken is cut into evenly sized pieces so they cook at the same rate.
• Vegetable Prep: Cut the vegetables into similar sizes to ensure they cook evenly and don’t overcook.
• Add Fresh Herbs: For extra freshness, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley just before serving.
• Cook in Batches: If your skillet isn’t large enough to hold all the ingredients in one layer, cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

How to Serve

Serve this dish hot directly from the skillet for a family-style meal. You can also pair it with a side of rice, couscous, quinoa, or a slice of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. For a low-carb option, serve it with cauliflower rice or a simple salad.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until warmed through.

Freezing

While this dish is best fresh, you can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for a quick meal. If reheating on the stove, you may want to add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly, as they may take a bit longer to cook than breasts.

2. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as mushrooms, spinach, or carrots, to increase the nutrient content.

3. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, you can substitute fresh herbs for dried. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as the recipe calls for in dried form.

4. Can I make this dish with frozen vegetables?

Frozen vegetables can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the skillet to avoid excess moisture.

5. Can I use a different cooking oil?

Yes, you can substitute olive oil with other cooking oils like avocado oil or coconut oil.

6. Can I make this dish in advance?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

7. Can I use other protein sources?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

8. How can I add more flavor to the dish?

To enhance the flavor, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar right before serving.

9. Can I cook this in a different type of pan?

Yes, any large skillet or sauté pan should work well for this recipe. You could also use a cast-iron skillet for added flavor and even browning.

10. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Check that the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F (75°C) using a meat thermometer, or cut into a piece to ensure there is no pink inside.

Conclusion

The One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is a quick, easy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy nights or when you’re craving something healthy yet satisfying. Packed with lean protein and fresh veggies, this dish is not only nutritious but also bursting with flavor. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a wholesome dinner on the table in no time. Whether you stick to the recipe as is or customize it with your favorite vegetables and seasonings, this skillet meal will surely become a family favorite.

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