Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet: A Quick and Nutritious Meal

If you’ve ever wished for a wholesome, delicious meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes, this Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is the answer. It’s bursting with flavor, packed with colorful veggies, and cooked in just one pan. Whether you’re feeding your family or preparing meals for the week, this recipe is a game-changer for your healthy eating routine.

Why You’ll Love This Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet

• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup makes it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious and Balanced: Packed with lean protein, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic spices.
• Customizable: You can swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasoning to your taste.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Ingredients for Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet

Here’s what you’ll need for this flavorful dish:

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Olive Oil	2 tbsp (divided)	Use extra virgin for the best flavor.
Chicken Breasts	1 lb (boneless, skinless)	Cut into 1-inch pieces.
Salt and Black Pepper	To taste	For seasoning the chicken and vegetables.
Garlic Powder	½ tsp	Adds a savory depth.
Onion Powder	½ tsp	Complements the garlic powder.
Dried Thyme	½ tsp	A classic herb for chicken dishes.
Dried Rosemary	½ tsp	Earthy and fragrant.
Paprika	½ tsp	Adds mild heat and a smoky flavor.
Chili Powder	¼–½ tsp	Adjust based on your spice preference.
Yellow Onion	1 small (sliced)	Adds sweetness and aroma.
Broccoli	3 cups (florets)	Bite-sized for quick cooking.
Zucchini	1 (sliced into half-moons)	Adds a fresh, mild flavor.
Bell Peppers	2 small (red and yellow)	Cut into 1-inch chunks.
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth	¼ cup	Can be substituted with dry white wine or water.
Fresh Parsley	For garnish	Adds a vibrant finishing touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet

1. Prepare the Chicken

• Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces.
• Season with salt and pepper, then toss with half the spice mix (garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, paprika, and chili powder).
• Drizzle ½ tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken and mix to coat evenly.

2. Cook the Chicken

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

3. Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same skillet, heat the remaining olive oil.
• Add the sliced onions and cook for 2 minutes until softened.
• Stir in the broccoli, zucchini, and bell peppers. If needed, drizzle a little more olive oil.
• Sprinkle the remaining spice mix over the vegetables, along with salt and pepper.
• Cook for 4–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are crisp-tender.

4. Combine and Finish

• Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the skillet and bring the flavors together.
• Return the cooked chicken and its juices to the skillet.
• Stir everything together and cook for another minute until heated through.

5. Garnish and Serve

• Remove from heat, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken and Vegetables Skillet

• Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Cook the chicken in batches if needed to ensure even browning.
• Cut Evenly: Chop the vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking.
• Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh thyme or rosemary, they’ll add an extra burst of flavor.
• Deglaze Properly: Use the chicken broth to scrape up any browned bits from the skillet for maximum flavor.
• Serve Immediately: While this dish is great for leftovers, it’s best enjoyed fresh for the crispiest veggies.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	250
Protein	27g
Total Fat	9g
Saturated Fat	1.5g
Carbohydrates	13g
Fiber	4g
Sodium	320mg

What to Serve with Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet

This versatile dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:

• Whole Grains: Serve over quinoa, brown rice, or farro for a heartier meal.
• Pasta: Toss with whole-grain pasta for a quick dinner.
• Salad: Pair with a light side salad for added freshness.
• Bread: Add a slice of crusty whole-grain bread to soak up the flavorful juices.

Variations of Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet

1. Low-Carb Option

• Skip the chicken broth and add extra olive oil for a keto-friendly version.

2. Vegan Version

• Swap chicken for tofu or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

3. Spicy Skillet

• Increase the chili powder or add red pepper flakes for extra heat.

4. Mediterranean Style

• Add sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and a sprinkle of feta cheese.

5. Asian-Inspired

• Swap the spices for soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger for an Asian twist.

How to Store and Reheat Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet

Refrigerate

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freeze

Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheat

Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs About Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and work perfectly in this recipe.

2. Can I use frozen vegetables?

While fresh is best for texture, frozen vegetables can be used. Just cook them a bit longer to remove excess moisture.

3. How do I make it dairy-free?

This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but ensure your chicken broth or other substitutions don’t contain hidden dairy.

4. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Mushrooms, asparagus, or green beans make great additions.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well. Cook everything and store it in the fridge, then reheat when ready to serve.

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your chicken broth is gluten-free, this dish is naturally gluten-free.

Why You Should Try This Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Tonight

This Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of wholesome, simple ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. It’s quick, delicious, and versatile, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly dinner or a meal-prep solution, this dish has you covered.

What are you waiting for? Grab your skillet and whip up this healthy, satisfying meal today!

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