Why Make This Recipe
Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is a fantastic choice for a quick and nutritious meal. It combines lean protein with vibrant vegetables, providing a balanced dish rich in flavor and nutrients. Whether you’re looking to eat healthier, save time on busy weekdays, or impress your family with a colorful meal, this recipe checks all the boxes.
How to Make Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 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 dry white wine, apple juice, or water)
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions:
- Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces, season with salt and pepper, and set it aside.
- In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, paprika, and chili powder. Sprinkle half of the seasoning mix over the chicken.
- Drizzle ½ tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken and toss to coat evenly.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and fully cooked.
- Transfer the chicken to a plate, cover, and set aside.
- Return the skillet to the stove and heat the remaining olive oil. Add the onions and cook for 2 minutes. Then, add the broccoli, zucchini, and peppers. If needed, add a little more oil. Season with the rest of the spice mix, along with some salt and pepper, and cook for 4 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine.
- Return the cooked chicken and its juices to the skillet, stir everything together, and cook for another minute.
- Remove from heat, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish with parsley and serve.
How to Serve Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet
This dish is best served hot right from the skillet. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with a side of brown rice, quinoa, or whole grain bread for a complete meal. It’s colorful and flavorful, making it a great option for family dinners or meal prep.
How to Store Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. If it seems dry, a splash of broth or water can help restore moisture.
Tips to Make Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet
- To save time, prep your vegetables while the chicken cooks.
- You can customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand, such as carrots, snap peas, or green beans.
- For added heat, increase the amount of chili powder or add some red pepper flakes.
Variation
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas. Just ensure that the protein is cooked well and seasoned properly to absorb the flavors.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?
Yes, frozen vegetables can save time and are great to use. Just make sure to cook them a bit longer to ensure they are heated through and tender.
2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to use gluten-free chicken broth if you choose to use broth.
3. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This skillet dish stores well and is perfect for meal prep. Just portion it out into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners.