One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet: A Simple, Healthy Meal

One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is the perfect dish for those who want a healthy, flavorful, and hassle-free meal with minimal cleanup. This easy-to-make recipe combines lean chicken with a colorful array of fresh vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, all cooked together in one pan for maximum flavor and convenience. The addition of Italian seasoning and a touch of paprika gives this dish a vibrant, savory flavor, while the chicken broth keeps everything moist and tender.

Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, this one-pot wonder is as nutritious as it is delicious. The mix of vegetables provides a great source of vitamins and fiber, while the chicken ensures a satisfying, protein-packed meal. Whether you’re a busy home cook or just looking for a tasty, wholesome dish, One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is a surefire winner that will please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Easy Cleanup

With only one skillet used, this dish saves you time on both preparation and cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

2. Packed with Nutrients

The variety of vegetables provides an excellent balance of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making this dish as healthy as it is delicious.

3. Quick and Convenient

This recipe takes just 30 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a great option for busy nights when you want a satisfying meal fast.

4. Customizable

You can easily adjust the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences, allowing for endless variations.

5. Full of Flavor

The combination of garlic, Italian seasoning, and paprika creates a savory, aromatic dish that brings out the natural flavors of the chicken and vegetables.

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Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Salt and black pepper
• Olive oil
• Small onion (diced)
• Garlic (minced)
• Red bell pepper (chopped)
• Yellow bell pepper (chopped)
• Medium zucchini (sliced)
• Cherry tomatoes (halved)
• Baby spinach
• Dried Italian seasoning
• Paprika
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Low-sodium chicken broth
• Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version of this dish.
• Spicy Kick: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier twist.
• Extra Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, or carrots for more flavor and texture.
• Different Protein: If you prefer, you can use boneless pork chops, turkey, or shrimp instead of chicken.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Then add the chopped red and yellow bell peppers and zucchini, and cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning

Stir in the cherry tomatoes, spinach, dried Italian seasoning, paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another 2 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes begin to soften.

Step 4: Add the Chicken and Broth

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then pour in the chicken broth. Stir everything together to combine, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the broth to reduce slightly and everything to heat through.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Once the chicken and vegetables are fully cooked and the flavors have melded together, garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Serve immediately with your favorite side dish or enjoy it on its own.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Bone-In Chicken: For added flavor, you can use bone-in, skin-on chicken. Just be sure to cook it longer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to load up the skillet with extra vegetables to make the dish even more nutritious.
• Control the Heat: If you don’t like too much spice, skip the crushed red pepper flakes or use a small amount.
• Make It Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check that your chicken broth is gluten-free if necessary.

How to Serve

One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet can be served on its own for a light, healthy meal or paired with your favorite sides. It pairs beautifully with quinoa, rice, or mashed potatoes. For a low-carb option, serve it with cauliflower rice or a side salad.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to prevent it from drying out.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, allow the meal to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop.

Reheating

To reheat, place the skillet over medium heat and cook until the chicken and vegetables are warmed through, adding a bit of broth if needed to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken?

While fresh chicken is recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen chicken if necessary. Just make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking.

2. Can I use different vegetables?

Yes, feel free to substitute other vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or broccoli based on what you have on hand.

3. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prep! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge or freeze for later.

4. Can I make this recipe in advance?

You can prepare the chicken and vegetables ahead of time, but it’s best to add the broth and finish cooking just before serving for the best texture.

5. Can I use a different kind of broth?

Yes, you can use vegetable broth or beef broth instead of chicken broth, depending on your preference.

6. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to increase the heat.

7. Can I use other seasonings?

Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, or cumin to give the dish your own twist.

8. How can I make the chicken more flavorful?

Marinate the chicken in your favorite seasoning mix or add a splash of lemon juice before cooking to enhance its flavor.

9. Is this recipe low-carb?

Yes, this dish is low-carb due to the lack of pasta or rice, and the vegetables provide plenty of fiber.

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

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be safe to eat. Alternatively, it should no longer be pink in the center when cut open.

Conclusion

One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is an easy-to-make, healthy, and flavorful meal that can be prepared in just one pan. The combination of lean chicken and a colorful mix of vegetables makes this dish as nutritious as it is delicious. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, this recipe offers a simple way to enjoy a wholesome meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re short on time or just want a satisfying dish, this skillet meal is a go-to option for every home cook.

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