Name: Healthy Chicken And Vegetables Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 red onion, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

There's something deeply satisfying about a meal that's both healthy and delicious, and this Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is just that. With tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a simple yet flavorful seasoning, this dish is the perfect balance of nourishment and taste.

I first started making this skillet when I needed a quick, wholesome dinner after long workdays. What began as a simple way to clean out my fridge quickly became a family favorite, requested at least once a week. It's fast, packed with lean protein and fiber, and most importantly—delicious!

Why You'll Love This Healthy Chicken And Vegetables Skillet

Get ready to enjoy a meal that's nutritious, easy, and bursting with flavor. Here’s why this skillet will become your go-to recipe:

First off, it's quick and easy. From start to finish, you can have dinner on the table in 30 minutes or less, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

It's also incredibly nutritious. Packed with lean protein from the chicken and an array of fiber-rich vegetables, this dish supports a balanced diet without sacrificing taste.

Not to mention, it's budget-friendly. Simple ingredients like chicken breast, bell peppers, and zucchini make this a cost-effective meal that won’t break the bank.

Lastly, it’s highly customizable. You can switch up the veggies based on what you have on hand or adjust the seasonings to fit your flavor preferences.

Ingredients Notes

This Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is all about fresh, wholesome ingredients that come together effortlessly.

Chicken breast is the star of this dish, offering a lean, high-protein base that keeps you full and energized. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor and juicier texture.

Bell peppers bring a pop of color and a natural sweetness to balance out the savory flavors. Choose red, yellow, or green for variety, or mix them up for a vibrant dish.

Zucchini adds a subtle sweetness and a tender bite to the skillet. Since it cooks quickly, it’s best to add it towards the end to prevent it from getting too soft.

Cherry tomatoes provide a juicy burst of flavor that enhances the overall taste. As they cook, they release their natural juices, creating a light, flavorful sauce.

For seasonings, a simple mix of garlic, paprika, and Italian herbs brings the dish to life. You can also add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

A large skillet or cast-iron pan is ideal for this recipe, ensuring even cooking and a nice sear on the chicken.

How To Make This Healthy Chicken And Vegetables Skillet

Making this dish is as easy as chopping, sautéing, and serving. Here’s how to do it:

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and let it warm up until it shimmers. This ensures a nice sear on the chicken.

Cut your chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and season them with salt, pepper, and paprika. Place them in the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove them from the pan and set aside.

In the same skillet, add another drizzle of oil and toss in the bell peppers and zucchini. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften but still have a slight crunch.

Next, add the cherry tomatoes and minced garlic. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to burst and release their juices, creating a light sauce.

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring well to coat everything in the flavors. Cook for another 2 minutes, just until everything is heated through and well combined.

Your Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is now ready to serve! This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy nights.

Storage Options

This dish stores beautifully, making it great for meal prep.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.

For freezing, let the skillet cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet over medium heat.

To reheat, simply warm in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or water to bring back moisture. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility.

For a different protein option, swap the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or lean beef. Each variation brings a unique flavor and texture to the dish.

If you want to add more hearty vegetables, try broccoli, asparagus, or mushrooms. They’ll add depth and variety to each bite.

For a low-carb twist, swap traditional rice or pasta sides with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. This keeps the meal light yet satisfying.

If you prefer a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce while cooking the veggies.

Experimenting with different seasonings, proteins, and vegetables can make this dish feel brand new every time. So go ahead and make it your own!

This Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. It’s quick, flavorful, and endlessly customizable, making it a staple in any kitchen. Try it tonight and enjoy a meal that’s as good for you as it is delicious!