Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe

This Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a colorful array of vegetables. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this recipe offers a quick and healthy meal solution that can satisfy the whole family. With its infusion of garlic and spices, it brings vibrant flavors to your table while being versatile enough for any occasion, from casual dinners to meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 35 minutes, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: With its delicious flavors and colorful veggies, it’s appealing to both kids and adults.
• One-Pan Meal: Easy cleanup as everything cooks in one skillet, saving you time on dishes.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, making it a nutritious choice.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out veggies based on what you have at home or personal preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting your cooking adventure, gather your tools. This will streamline the process and ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet (12-inch)
• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for evenly cooking the chicken and vegetables without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining spices with chicken for even seasoning.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for faster preparation.

Ingredients

This Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe features a blend of wholesome ingredients that create a flavorful dish.

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 (you can also use 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

Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces. Season with salt and pepper; set aside.

Step 2: Mix Spices

In a small mixing bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, paprika, and chili powder. Take half of the seasoning mix and sprinkle it over the chicken pieces.

Step 3: Coat Chicken

Add ½ tablespoon olive oil to the chicken. Toss until evenly coated with oil and spices.

Step 4: Cook Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces to the hot oil. Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes until browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove from skillet; set aside on a plate covered with foil.

Step 5: Sauté Onions

Return skillet to heat. Add remaining olive oil. Stir in onions; cook for about 2 minutes until soft.

Step 6: Add Vegetables

Add broccoli, zucchini, yellow bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the skillet. If needed, add more oil. Season with remaining spice mix plus salt and pepper. Cook for about 4 to 6 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender; stir occasionally.

Step 7: Combine Ingredients

Stir in chicken broth. Return cooked chicken along with any juices back to the skillet. Stir well to combine everything together; cook for an additional minute.

Step 8: Final Touches

Remove from heat. Taste for salt; adjust if necessary. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving hot.

Enjoy your delicious Chicken and Vegetables Skillet!

How to Serve Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe

This Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to enhance your meal experience.

Create a Complete Meal

• Serve with rice or quinoa for a hearty base that soaks up the flavorful juices.
• Pair with fresh bread to enjoy the dish’s sauce, adding a comforting touch.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A green salad with mixed greens can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm skillet dish.
• Consider a Caesar salad for a bit of creaminess that complements the chicken.

Include a Sauce or Dressing

• Drizzle with a lemon vinaigrette for a zesty kick that brightens the flavors.
• Offer some hot sauce on the side for those who like an extra spice boost.

Make It Family-Friendly

• Serve in taco shells for a fun twist, allowing everyone to build their own tacos.
• Create a wrap using tortillas, making it easy for kids to enjoy.

How to Perfect Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe

To make this Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe even better, here are some tips for perfecting your dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the flavor and texture of your skillet.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary; this ensures even cooking and browning.
• Adjust seasoning: Feel free to tweak spices according to your taste preferences for a personalized flavor.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken and Vegetables Skillet can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted garlic bread adds crunch and flavor alongside the main dish.
2. Steamed Rice: A simple bowl of steamed rice absorbs the juices, enhancing every bite.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes offer a delicious contrast in texture while complementing the meal.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness that balances out the savory chicken.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus provides an elegant touch with its vibrant color and flavor.
6. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad packed with herbs can add both nutrition and taste variety.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your cooking experience and ensure delicious results.

• Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season the chicken and vegetables can result in bland flavors. Always season generously with salt, pepper, and spices for a flavorful dish.
• Overcrowding the skillet: Placing too much chicken or vegetables in the skillet can lead to steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect golden color.
• Not preheating the skillet: Cooking in a cold skillet can affect how evenly the chicken cooks. Always preheat your skillet before adding oil and ingredients.
• Neglecting vegetable doneness: Cooking vegetables for too long may make them mushy. Aim for crisp-tender textures by keeping an eye on cooking times.
• Skipping the broth: Using less broth or omitting it altogether can dry out the dish. The broth adds moisture and flavor, so don’t skip this step.
• Failing to taste before serving: Not tasting your dish before serving could lead to missed seasoning opportunities. Always taste and adjust as needed for a balanced flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags to store for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for 2-3 minutes on high, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What can I substitute for chicken broth?

You can use low sodium chicken broth, dry white apple vinegar, apple juice, or even water as a substitute.

How do I customize my Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe?

Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, green beans, or snap peas according to your preference!

Is this Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe healthy?

Yes! This recipe is low in carbs while packed with protein and nutrients from the vegetables.

Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them beforehand and adjust cooking times as needed.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe is not only easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or spices, making it a delightful choice for any dinner. Give it a try, and you might just find it becoming a go-to meal in your household!