One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is an amazing way to prepare a nourishing dinner in no time. This one-pot wonder combines protein, vitamins, and minerals into a hearty dish that your family will love. If you’re looking for an easy and quick meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this one is for you! With minimal cleanup and preparation, you can focus on enjoying quality time with loved ones while relishing a nutritious dinner.
Imagine a tender chicken breast simmering alongside vibrant vegetables, all infused with herbs and spices. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, promising a delightful meal. One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is not just a recipe; it’s a lifestyle choice for busy families or anyone wanting to eat healthily without spending hours in the kitchen.
This dish also has the added bonus of versatility. You can customize it with whatever vegetables you have on hand, or swap out the protein for beef or tofu, if desired. You’ll end up with a wonderful meal on your table that can please even the pickiest eaters. Ready to uncover this delectable quick recipe? Let’s dive into why this dish stands out and how it can become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to adore One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet. Here are some key highlights that make this dish a go-to for anyone in search of easy yet delicious meals:
1. Quick and Easy – In just about 10 minutes of prep and 20-30 minutes of cooking, you have a complete meal.
2. Minimal Cleanup – With only one pot to wash, you can spend less time cleaning and more time relaxing after dinner.
3. Healthy Ingredients – Packed with lean protein and colorful vegetables, this meal is loaded with nutrients.
4. Customizable – Feel free to substitute any vegetable or protein according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand.
5. Family-Friendly – This dish appeals to children and adults alike; you can even let the kids help with vegetable prep.
6. Flavorful and Satisfying – A blend of spices and fresh ingredients ensures that every bite is delicious.
With these fantastic features, it’s clear why One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is a favorite among home cooks. Each element combines to create a wholesome meal that you can feel good about serving your family.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Preparing an incredible One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet takes minimal time, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. Here’s how time breaks down:
– Preparation Time: 10 minutes
– Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
– Total Time: 30-40 minutes
This timeline allows you to prepare a nutritious meal quickly, so you can enjoy your evening without feeling rushed. With this recipe, you’ll find that you can effortlessly fit healthy eating into your busy schedule.
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is straightforward with these easy-to-follow steps:
1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Sauté the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 6-8 minutes, or until browned on both sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add Bell Peppers and Zucchini: Toss in sliced bell peppers and zucchini. Cook for another 5 minutes until slightly softened.
5. Add Cherry Tomatoes and Broccoli: Stir in halved cherry tomatoes and broccoli florets. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.
6. Return Chicken to the Skillet: Place the chicken back into the skillet. Sprinkle dried oregano and thyme over the top.
7. Pour in Chicken Broth: Carefully add the chicken broth to the skillet, ensuring everything is covered.
8. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
9. Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
10. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy your meal!
These steps make it easy even for novice cooks to create a splendid dish that everyone will love.
How to Serve
To elevate your dining experience when serving One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet, consider the following tips:
1. Presentation: Serve it directly from the skillet for a rustic, family-style experience. Alternatively, plate the chicken and vegetables separately for individual servings.
2. Accompaniments: Pair with a side of warm crusty bread, quinoa, or brown rice to soak up the delicious juices.
3. Beverage Pairing: A crisp white wine or sparkling water with fresh lemon makes a refreshing complement to this dish.
4. Leftover Idea: Any leftovers can be quickly reheated and are perfect for meal prepping for the week ahead.
These small touches can make a simple meal feel special and enjoyable.
By following this informative guide on One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet, you’ll discover how easy it is to prepare nourishing meals that fit your lifestyle. This dish represents everything that weeknight cooking should be: quick, healthy, and oh-so-delicious!
Additional Tips
– Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables not only add vibrant color to your One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet but also enhance the flavor.
– Marinate the Chicken: For an extra depth of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in your favorite herbs and spices for 30 minutes before cooking.
– Adjust Spice Levels: If you or your family enjoy some heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to suit your taste.
– Cook in Batches: If you’re preparing a larger meal, consider doubling the recipe and cooking in batches to save time.
Recipe Variation
Feel free to switch things up based on your preferences! Here are a few variations to try:
1. Mediterranean Twist: Add olives and feta cheese for a Mediterranean flair. Replace the Italian spices with oregano and basil for a fresh taste.
2. Spicy Chicken and Vegetables: Add some Cajun seasoning to the chicken for a spicy kick. You can also include corn and green beans as additional vegetables.
3. Asian-Inspired: Substitute soy sauce and ginger for the herbs, and add snap peas and bok choy for an Asian touch. Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
4. Herb-Infused Rice: Cook the dish with rice added in; the rice will absorb the broth, resulting in a flavorful one-pot meal.
Freezing and Storage
– Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume within 3-4 days for the best quality and taste.
– Freezing: This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then place in airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove until warmed through.
Special Equipment
To efficiently prepare the One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:
– Large Skillet: A wide, deep skillet allows for even cooking and prevents crowding.
– Cutting Board: Essential for chopping vegetables and prepping chicken.
– Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and safe chopping.
– Meat Thermometer: This helps check that the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but you should thaw it fully before cooking for even cooking and flavor absorption.
What vegetables can I substitute?
You can use any vegetables you prefer. Carrots, green beans, and asparagus work well, so feel free to get creative!
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free; just ensure that your chicken broth is labeled gluten-free.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! The more vegetables, the better. Consider adding spinach or kale for extra nutrition.
What should I serve with this dish?
Pair it with crusty bread, quinoa, or a fresh salad to complement the main dish.
Conclusion
One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is not just a meal; it’s a solution for busy weeknights. Bursting with nutrition, flavor, and color, this simple dish appeals to all ages. Its versatility ensures you can tailor it to suit any palate, making it an excellent option for family dinners or meal prep. Whether as a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering, this recipe is bound to impress!
One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet: An Incredible 10-Minute Meal
- Total Time: 0 hours
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Creating One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is straightforward with these easy-to-follow steps:
1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Sauté the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 6-8 minutes, or until browned on both sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add Bell Peppers and Zucchini: Toss in sliced bell peppers and zucchini. Cook for another 5 minutes until slightly softened.
5. Add Cherry Tomatoes and Broccoli: Stir in halved cherry tomatoes and broccoli florets. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.
6. Return Chicken to the Skillet: Place the chicken back into the skillet. Sprinkle dried oregano and thyme over the top.
7. Pour in Chicken Broth: Carefully add the chicken broth to the skillet, ensuring everything is covered.
8. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
9. Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
10. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy your meal!
These steps make it easy even for novice cooks to create a splendid dish that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 30g