Description
This Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is a quick, easy, and nutritious one-pan meal packed with lean protein, colorful veggies, and a light, flavorful seasoning. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a low-carb meal. Serve it as-is or pair it with brown rice, quinoa, or whole-grain pasta for a more filling dish!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized cubes)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
For the Vegetables:
- 1 small zucchini (sliced into half-moons)
- 1 small bell pepper (any color, chopped)
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved, optional for a juicy touch)
- 1 small red onion (thinly sliced)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For Garnish:
- Juice of 1/2 lemon (for freshness)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- Grated Parmesan or feta cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add cubed chicken, season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Sauté for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F/75°C).
- Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil and garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add zucchini, bell pepper, broccoli, red onion, and cherry tomatoes.
- Season with salt, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
- Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until veggies are tender but still crisp.
Step 3: Combine & Finish
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything together.
- Drizzle with lemon juice and cook for 1-2 more minutes to blend flavors.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan or feta (if using).
Serving Suggestions
- As-is: Enjoy as a low-carb, high-protein meal.
- With grains: Serve with brown rice, quinoa, or whole wheat couscous.
- With pasta: Toss with whole-grain pasta or zucchini noodles.
- Wrap it up: Stuff into a whole-wheat tortilla for a healthy wrap.
Notes
- Make it creamy: Stir in ¼ cup Greek yogurt or coconut milk for a creamy twist.
- More protein? Add chickpeas, lentils, or tofu.
- Extra crunch? Toss in toasted almonds or sunflower seeds before serving.
- Spice it up: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce for more heat.