Name: Colorful One-Pot Chicken & Veggie Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces; Salt & black pepper, to taste; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; ½ teaspoon dried rosemary; ½ teaspoon paprika; ¼–½ teaspoon chili powder; 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced; 3 cups broccoli florets (bite-size pieces); 1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons; 1 small yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks; 1 small red bell pepper, cut into chunks; ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth (or white wine, apple juice, or water); Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

If you’re seeking a nourishing and delicious dinner that’s also incredibly convenient, look no further than this Colorful One-Pot Chicken & Veggie Skillet. This dish not only satisfies your cravings with its blend of juicy chicken and vibrant vegetables, but it also takes the hassle out of cooking with just a single skillet required. Imagine the aromas wafting through your kitchen as the chicken cooks to golden perfection, mingling with the fresh notes of sautéed broccoli, zucchini, and sweet peppers. It’s a visually stunning dish that not only pleases the palate but also offers a plethora of health benefits.

Busy weeknights won’t be a problem anymore with this quick and simple recipe, which you can whip up in about 35 minutes. It’s not only suitable for a family meal but also great for meal prepping. The Colorful One-Pot Chicken & Veggie Skillet embraces flexibility, allowing you to customize it by swapping out vegetables or adjusting seasonings according to your taste preferences. Whether you’re looking to eat healthier, cut down on dishes, or simply prepare a meal that the whole family will love, this recipe ticks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Colorful One-Pot Chicken & Veggie Skillet

One-pan cleanup: Everything cooks in the same skillet, making cleaning up a breeze.
Nutritious & colorful: Packed with lean protein and a variety of fresh vegetables, it’s as healthy as it is appealing.
Flexible: Easily swap out ingredients to suit your personal preferences or what you have on hand.
Quick & simple: Ready in about 35 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s crucial to prepare your kitchen and gather all the necessary ingredients to streamline your cooking. Start by chopping all your vegetables: slice the onion, broccoli, zucchini, and bell peppers into suitable pieces. The ease of organization will not only save you time but will also keep your kitchen tidy while you work.

In terms of cookware, a large skillet or sauté pan is essential for this recipe. A non-stick surface is highly recommended to prevent the chicken and vegetables from sticking during cooking. Additionally, gathering measuring spoons for the spices and a sharp knife for chopping will ensure you have everything at your fingertips as you cook.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
Salt & black pepper, to taste
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon dried rosemary
½ teaspoon paprika
¼–½ teaspoon chili powder
1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
3 cups broccoli florets (bite-size pieces)
1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons
1 small yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 small red bell pepper, cut into chunks
¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth (or white wine, apple juice, or water)
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Begin by seasoning the chicken pieces in a mixing bowl. Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried rosemary, paprika, and chili powder. Drizzle with half a tablespoon of olive oil, then toss everything together until the chicken is well-coated with the spices. This step is essential to infuse the chicken with flavor from the very beginning.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Next, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer. This helps them to brown evenly. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. After cooking, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it to keep it warm while you cook the vegetables.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, pour in the remaining olive oil and add the sliced onions. Sauté for around 2 minutes until they’re just beginning to soften. Then, add the broccoli florets, zucchini, and bell peppers. Season with the leftover spice mixture, salt, and pepper. Stir gently and cook for 4-6 minutes, or until the vegetables are crisp-tender. This method of cooking not only preserves the vibrant color of the veggies but also maintains their nutritional integrity.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

To unite the flavors, pour in the chicken broth (or your chosen liquid). Stir to incorporate all elements, scraping any flavorful brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. Next, return the cooked chicken and its juices back to the skillet. Mix everything well and let it cook for another minute to heat through and meld the flavors together.

Variations

Protein: Substitute chicken with turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian alternative.
Vegetables: Feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables like asparagus, snap peas, or carrots.
Spices: Experiment with different spices such as cumin, coriander, or Italian seasoning for a twist.

Cooking Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken pieces in the seasoning mix for a couple of hours before cooking.
Ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve that perfect sear.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over a bed of rice, quinoa, or couscous for a complete meal.
A side of crusty bread or a fresh salad can complement the dish beautifully.

Tips

Always use fresh spices for the best flavor—older spices can lose potency.
Make sure to taste and adjust seasonings as you go for optimal flavor.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 350
Protein: 35g
Sodium: 300mg

FAQs

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can pre-chop the vegetables and marinate the chicken in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes! This dish freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw and heat gently on the stove.

What can I serve with this skillet meal?

It pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or even a light salad.

Is it possible to make this a vegetarian dish?

Definitely! You can replace the chicken with chickpeas or your favorite plant-based protein.

Conclusion

The Colorful One-Pot Chicken & Veggie Skillet is a fantastic recipe that embodies convenience, health, and vibrant flavors. It makes weeknight dinners not only easier but also more enjoyable for the whole family. With the flexibility to adapt ingredients and spices, it allows you to experiment and discover new favorites every time you make it. We encourage you to give it a try and share your thoughts or any variations you made in the comments below. Your culinary adventure awaits in a pan, so get cooking!