Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet

Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is a delightful, nutritious dish that combines tender chicken with vibrant vegetables. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this skillet meal is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrients. With its colorful ingredients and simple cooking method, you’ll find it an appealing choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with lean chicken and fresh veggies, it’s a wholesome meal that supports a healthy lifestyle.
• One-Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in one skillet means fewer dishes to wash afterward!
• Customizable Flavor: Adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences; it’s versatile enough to handle various seasonings.
• Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults, this recipe provides a balanced meal everyone will enjoy.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools on hand makes the cooking process smoother. Here’s what you need for this Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Small bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Essential for even cooking of the chicken and vegetables all at once.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping your ingredients.
• Knife: A good quality knife ensures precise cuts on your vegetables and chicken.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements of spices guarantee consistent flavor every time.

Ingredients

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

For the Seasoning Mix

• 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 (or use dry white apple vinegar, apple juice, or water)
• chopped fresh parsley for garnish

How to Make Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces, season with salt and pepper, and set it aside.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

1. In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, paprika, and chili powder.
2. Sprinkle half of the seasoning mix over the chicken.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken with Oil

1. Drizzle ½ tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken.
2. Toss it to coat evenly.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until browned and fully cooked.
3. Transfer the chicken to a plate, cover it, and set aside.

Step 5: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Return the skillet to medium heat and add remaining olive oil.
2. Add onions; cook for about 2 minutes until translucent.
3. Add broccoli, zucchini, and bell peppers; stir well.
4. Season with the remaining spice mix along with some salt and pepper.
5. Cook for another 4 to 6 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender.

Step 6: Combine Chicken with Vegetables

1. Pour in the chicken broth or alternative liquid; stir to combine everything well.
2. Return cooked chicken along with its juices back into the skillet.
3. Stir everything together and cook for an additional minute.

Step 7: Final Adjustments

1. Remove from heat; taste your dish.
2. Adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

Step 8: Serve

1. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving warm.

Enjoy your deliciously Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet as a satisfying dinner option!

How to Serve Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet

This Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is not only nutritious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to enhance your dining experience.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the skillet over a bed of brown rice for a wholesome meal that adds fiber and nutrients.

With Quinoa

• Pair the dish with cooked quinoa, which provides extra protein and has a pleasant nutty flavor.

In a Wrap

• Use whole-grain tortillas to wrap the chicken and vegetables, creating a delicious handheld meal perfect for lunch or dinner.

As a Salad Topper

• Spoon the mixture over mixed greens for a refreshing salad option that combines warm and cold elements.

With Whole-Grain Pasta

• Toss the chicken and vegetables with whole-grain pasta for an easy, filling dinner that’s packed with flavors.

How to Perfect Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet

To ensure your Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables not only taste better but also retain more nutrients than frozen ones.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking in batches helps achieve that nice sear on the chicken without steaming it.
• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with spices; they elevate the dish’s flavor profile significantly.
• Cook Chicken Until Golden: Aim for a nice golden-brown color on your chicken pieces to enhance both flavor and texture.
• Adjust Liquid Wisely: Add broth or vinegar gradually to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.
• Taste as You Go: Regularly tasting your dish allows you to adjust flavors before serving, ensuring perfection.

Best Side Dishes for Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet

Pairing side dishes with your Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Green Beans
   Lightly steamed green beans add crunch and freshness while complementing the skillet dish perfectly.

2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   Sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness and pair well with the savory flavors of chicken and veggies.

3. Garlic Bread
   A slice of garlic bread is an easy addition that can soak up any delicious juices left on your plate.

4. Cauliflower Rice
   For a low-carb option, serve cauliflower rice as a light base that absorbs all those tasty flavors.

5. Couscous Salad
   A light couscous salad with lemon dressing adds brightness to your meal, contrasting nicely with the robust skillet.

6. Sautéed Spinach
   Quick sautéed spinach seasoned with garlic offers an extra dose of greens while being quick to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results:

• Skipping seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to use salt, pepper, and spices to enhance the taste.
• Overcrowding the skillet: Packing too much chicken or vegetables into the skillet can steam rather than brown them. Cook in batches if necessary for that perfect sear.
• Not preheating the skillet: Starting with a cold skillet can prevent the chicken from browning well. Always preheat your skillet for better cooking results.
• Ignoring vegetable doneness: Cooking vegetables until they are mushy takes away their crunch. Keep an eye on them and aim for a crisp-tender texture.
• Neglecting broth measurement: Using too much or too little broth can affect consistency. Measure carefully to achieve the right balance of moisture.
• Not letting it rest before serving: Serving immediately may not allow flavors to meld. Letting it rest for a minute enhances taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet

• Use a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot throughout, usually around 2-3 minutes.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet:

What makes this Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet nutritious?

This dish is packed with lean protein from chicken and a variety of colorful vegetables rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a balanced meal.

Can I customize the vegetables in my Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet?

Absolutely! You can swap out or add any seasonal vegetables you prefer, such as carrots or asparagus.

How can I make my Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet spicier?

To spice things up, simply add more chili powder or include fresh chili peppers according to your heat preference.

Is this Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep as it stores well in the fridge or freezer, allowing you to enjoy delicious meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

The Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is not only quick and easy but also versatile enough to suit different tastes. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or seasonings. Give it a try; you’ll love how simple yet satisfying it is!

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Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x

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Description

Experience the vibrant flavors of our Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet, a quick and nutritious one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This delightful dish combines tender pieces of chicken with colorful, fresh vegetables, ensuring a wholesome dinner option that everyone will love. In just 35 minutes, you’ll create a satisfying meal that’s not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients to support a healthy lifestyle. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s dive in!

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Ingredients

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• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 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
• 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
• ¼ cup low sodium chicken broth (or substitute with apple juice, vinegar, or water)
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Cut chicken into pieces; season with salt and pepper.
2. Mix garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, paprika, and chili powder in a bowl.
3. Drizzle half tablespoon olive oil over chicken; toss to coat.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat; add remaining olive oil.
5. Cook chicken for about 6 to 8 minutes until browned; set aside.
6. Sauté onions in the same skillet until translucent; add broccoli, zucchini, and bell peppers.
7. Stir in remaining seasoning mix; cook until vegetables are crisp-tender.
8. Pour in broth; return chicken to skillet and combine everything well.
9. Adjust seasoning if needed; garnish with parsley before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 75mg