One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Recipe

Introduction

One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is a wholesome and satisfying meal that brings together perfectly cooked chicken and a variety of vegetables, all simmered in one pan for easy preparation and cleanup. This dish is a balanced combination of protein, fiber, and flavor, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option that is both delicious and nutritious. The chicken is seasoned to perfection, while the vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini, soak up all the savory goodness, making each bite a complete experience.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Using just one skillet, you can create a flavorful and hearty meal without the need for numerous pots and pans. It’s a great option for those who want a low-maintenance, yet delicious dish that still delivers on taste. With a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients, One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet will become your go-to meal for busy nights when you need something satisfying, quick, and nutritious. In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step of making this easy and delicious skillet meal, share tips for success, and offer some fun variations to try.

Why You’ll Love One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet

• Simple and Convenient: This dish is prepared in just one skillet, making it easy to clean up afterward. Plus, it comes together quickly, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.
• Packed with Flavor: The chicken is seasoned with a blend of spices, while the vegetables soak up all the delicious flavors. The combination of textures and flavors from the juicy chicken and tender vegetables creates a mouthwatering meal.
• Nutrient-Rich and Balanced: With lean chicken and a variety of vegetables, this dish provides a well-rounded mix of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. It’s a healthy meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. You can also add your favorite herbs or spices to suit your taste preferences.
• Quick and Easy: This dish is perfect for those days when you want a delicious meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. It takes just one pan and minimal effort to create a complete meal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 350-400 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 15-20g
• Carbohydrates: 20-25g
• Protein: 35-40g
• Fiber: 4-6g
• Sugar: 5-8g

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Vegetables:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if preferred)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin (optional for added depth)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 small yellow onion, sliced
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Sauce (Optional but Recommended):

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (for added freshness)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (optional for extra flavor)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season the Chicken

Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts (or thighs) with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, cumin (if using), salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to rub the seasoning into the chicken on all sides. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.

2. Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is golden brown on the outside. You may need to cook the chicken in batches if your skillet is not large enough to hold all the chicken at once.

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate, covering it loosely with foil to keep it warm.

3. Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and onions. Season the vegetables with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir the vegetables occasionally and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are tender but still slightly crisp. The vegetables should begin to pick up some of the flavor from the chicken and seasonings left in the skillet.

4. Prepare the Sauce (Optional)

While the vegetables are cooking, you can prepare a simple sauce to enhance the dish. In a small saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken broth and stir in the lemon juice and fresh thyme, if using. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

5. Return the Chicken to the Skillet

Once the vegetables are cooked to your desired tenderness, nestle the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the sauce (if prepared) over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring everything is evenly coated.

Cover the skillet with a lid and let the chicken warm up in the sauce for 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If the sauce has evaporated too much, you can add a little more chicken broth to keep it from drying out.

6. Serve and Garnish

Once the chicken is heated through and the sauce is nicely absorbed by the vegetables, remove the skillet from the heat. Slice the chicken into strips or serve it whole, depending on your preference. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

Serve the One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet immediately, enjoying it as a complete and satisfying meal.

Tips for Perfect One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet

• Use Bone-In Chicken for Extra Flavor: If you prefer bone-in chicken, you can certainly use bone-in breasts or thighs. Just be sure to cook the chicken for a little longer to ensure it’s cooked through properly. Bone-in chicken adds extra flavor and moisture.
• Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Broccoli, cauliflower, or sweet potatoes would be excellent additions or replacements for some of the vegetables in this recipe.
• Adjust the Seasonings: You can always tweak the seasoning blend to your liking. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder will add some heat, while fresh garlic or ginger will bring in additional aromatic flavors.
• Use Skinless Chicken Thighs: If you prefer chicken thighs, they are an excellent choice for this recipe. They’re juicier and more flavorful than chicken breasts, and they can withstand a little more cooking time, making them perfect for this one-pan dish.
• Make It Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free, but if you want to thicken the sauce, you can use cornstarch instead of flour for a gluten-free option. Mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the sauce to achieve the desired thickness.

Variations of One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet

• One Pot Chicken and Sweet Potatoes: For a heartier and sweeter version, add cubed sweet potatoes to the skillet. They’ll cook alongside the other vegetables and add a delightful sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory chicken.
• One Pot Chicken and Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet along with the other vegetables for a rich, earthy flavor. Mushrooms soak up the seasoning and sauce, making them a perfect addition to this dish.
• Lemon Herb Chicken and Vegetables: To add a bright and fresh flavor, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the chicken and vegetables before serving. You can also add lemon zest to the sauce for a more intense citrus flavor.
• One Pot Chicken and Spinach: For an extra boost of greens, stir in some fresh spinach at the end of cooking. The spinach will wilt down into the vegetables, adding a nutritious and vibrant touch to the dish.
• One Pot Chicken with Couscous: You can easily add couscous to the skillet for a more filling version of the dish. Couscous cooks quickly and can be tossed with the vegetables and chicken, absorbing all the savory flavors.

Storage and Shelf Life

One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is perfect for leftovers and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:

• Storing: Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store the chicken and vegetables together in the same container to retain moisture and flavor.
• Reheating: Reheat the dish in the microwave or on the stovetop. If it seems a little dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water to rehydrate the vegetables and sauce. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

Side Dishes and Pairings for One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet

This dish is already a complete meal,

but you can pair it with some delicious sides to enhance the experience:

• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce and add a comforting touch to the meal.
• Green Salad: A light, fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette will add a crisp, refreshing contrast to the hearty skillet dish.
• Quinoa or Rice: For a little extra grain, you can serve the chicken and vegetables over cooked quinoa or rice. Both are great choices that will complement the savory flavors of the dish.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: For a more vegetable-centric side, serve the skillet with some roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans. These veggies bring an extra crunch and bitterness that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken.

Print

Conclusion

One Pot Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is a fantastic option for a quick, nutritious, and delicious meal. The combination of seasoned chicken, tender vegetables, and a savory sauce makes it a complete, balanced dish that will satisfy your hunger and your taste buds. It’s versatile, customizable, and easy to make, which makes it perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re making it for your family or entertaining guests, this one-pan meal is sure to impress with its flavor and simplicity. Enjoy it with your favorite sides for a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.