Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet

Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Your Weeknight Hero

This recipe is designed for those busy evenings when you want a delicious, nutritious meal without a mountain of dishes afterward. It’s packed with lean protein, vibrant vitamins, and flavors that dance on your palate.

What You’ll Need The Wholesome Ensemble

Gather your fresh produce and lean protein, ready to transform into a delicious meal.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 1 medium onion, chopped into large chunks
• 2 cups broccoli florets, bite-sized
• 1 red bell pepper, cored and cut into 1-inch squares
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cored and cut into 1-inch squares
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms (cremini or button)
• ½ cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: a squeeze of fresh lemon juice

The Skillet Symphony: Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s turn these beautiful ingredients into a healthy masterpiece.

1. Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken cubes dry with a paper towel. In a medium bowl, toss the chicken with smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Make sure every piece is beautifully coated.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large (preferably 12-inch) skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Don’t worry about any browned bits stuck to the bottom – that’s flavor gold!
3. Sauté the Aromatics and Veggies: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the same skillet (no need for more oil, unless the pan is completely dry). Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion starts to soften and become fragrant.
4. Introduce the Bell Peppers and Mushrooms: Add the red and yellow bell peppers and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp. We want them vibrant and with a little bite!
5. Bring it All Together: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan with your spatula. This creates a wonderful little pan sauce.
6. Reunite and Simmer: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing gently to combine it with the vegetables and the bubbling broth. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.
7. Final Flourish: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the fresh broccoli florets. The residual heat from the skillet will gently steam them, keeping them bright green and wonderfully crisp. If you prefer your broccoli softer, add it with the bell peppers in step 4.
8. Serve with a Smile: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, if desired. Serve immediately and watch it disappear!

Tips & Tricks for Skillet Success

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: This is crucial for achieving that lovely golden-brown sear on your chicken and vegetables. Cook in batches if necessary, especially if you’re doubling the recipe.
• Chop Evenly: Ensure your vegetables are cut into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly. No one wants a mushy bell pepper next to a raw one!
• Spice it Up! Feel free to customize the spices. A pinch of chili flakes for a little kick, a dash of dried thyme, or even a sprinkle of Italian seasoning would work wonderfully.
• Cast Iron Love: While any large skillet will do, a cast iron skillet truly shines here. It retains heat exceptionally well, leading to better browning and a more even cook.
• Don’t Forget the Broth: The chicken broth creates a light, flavorful sauce that coats everything beautifully. It’s what transforms simple sautéed ingredients into a cohesive, delicious meal.

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is a meal in itself, but if you’re looking to round it out, here are some ideas:

• Quinoa or Brown Rice: For a complete meal, serve it over a bed of fluffy quinoa or nutty brown rice to soak up all those delicious juices.
• Cauliflower Rice: If you’re aiming for a lower-carb option, cauliflower rice is an excellent choice.
• Simple Green Salad: A light side salad with a vinaigrette dressing would add a refreshing contrast.
• Whole Wheat Couscous: Quick to prepare and a lovely accompaniment.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen vegetables? A: Yes, you can! Just be aware that frozen vegetables tend to release more water, which might make your skillet a bit wetter. You might need to cook them a little longer to evaporate the excess moisture. Avoid overcrowding the pan to help them brown better.

Q: What other vegetables can I add? A: The beauty of a skillet meal is its versatility! Feel free to add zucchini, green beans, asparagus, snap peas, or even thinly sliced carrots. Just adjust cooking times based on their density. Root vegetables like potatoes might need to be par-boiled or roasted separately before adding to the skillet to ensure they cook through.

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? A: Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs would be a fantastic choice. They tend to be more forgiving and stay juicier. The cooking time might be similar, but always ensure the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover chicken and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet on the stovetop or in the microwave.

A Full Heart, A Full Home

There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating a meal that’s not only healthy but also brings people together, quickly and effortlessly. This Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet isn’t just about the ingredients; it’s about the warmth it brings to your kitchen, the ease it offers on a busy night, and the joy of sharing good food with those you cherish. It’s a dish that reminds me of my grandmother’s wisdom – that sometimes, the simplest things are truly the most profound. So, next time you’re wondering what to make for dinner, reach for that skillet. You might just create a new favorite family memory.

What’s your favorite quick weeknight meal? Share your ideas in the comments below! And if you loved this recipe, don’t forget to Pin it for later or share it with a friend who needs a little weeknight magic in their life!