Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet – Quick & Easy One-Pan Meal

This Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is a simple, flavorful, and nutritious meal that comes together in just 30 minutes. If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and protein-packed dish that also includes a generous serving of vegetables, this one’s for you. Made with lean chicken breast, colorful bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli, all seasoned with aromatic spices and a light glaze of chicken broth, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s a one-pan meal—which means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Whether you’re looking for a healthy dinner option, meal-prep idea, or a low-carb meal, this dish checks all the boxes. Plus, you can customize it by swapping out the veggies or adding different spices to suit your taste preferences.

The flavors in this dish are bold yet balanced. The garlic, onion, thyme, and rosemary bring an earthy aroma, while the paprika and chili powder add a touch of warmth and spice. The chicken is perfectly seared until golden brown, locking in its juices, while the vegetables remain crisp-tender for the perfect texture contrast.

If you’re someone who struggles to get enough veggies into your diet, this recipe makes it effortless. The combination of bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli not only adds vibrant color to your plate but also provides essential vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. Plus, with a light broth glaze, everything comes together beautifully without the need for heavy sauces or creams.

This recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years, and I’m excited to share it with you. Whether you’re making it for yourself, your family, or meal-prepping for the week, you’re going to love how easy, flavorful, and healthy this dish is.

Why You’ll Love This Healthy Chicken Skillet Recipe

This chicken and vegetables skillet is one of those go-to meals that never disappoints. It’s fast, simple, and packed with delicious flavors, making it a meal you’ll want to make over and over again.

1. One-Pan Meal = Less Cleanup

Who doesn’t love a one-pan meal? This dish is cooked in a single skillet, meaning less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal. Plus, the flavors build in the pan, creating a delicious depth of taste without extra effort.

2. Nutritious and Balanced

This dish is packed with lean protein from the chicken and an abundance of fiber-rich, vitamin-loaded vegetables. It’s a well-rounded meal that leaves you satisfied without feeling heavy.

3. Quick and Easy

With a total cook time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for those nights when you need a meal on the table fast. Minimal chopping and simple ingredients make the process effortless.

4. Versatile and Customizable

You can easily swap out the vegetables or adjust the seasonings to suit your personal preferences. Want to add some spice? Toss in red pepper flakes. Need to use up leftover veggies? This recipe works with almost anything.

5. Great for Meal Prep

Since this dish stores and reheats well, it’s an excellent choice for meal prep. Prepare a big batch, divide it into containers, and you’ll have healthy meals ready for the week.

Health Benefits

Not only is this recipe delicious and easy to make, but it also offers numerous health benefits.

1. High in Protein

Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair, metabolism, and satiety. Eating enough protein helps keep you feeling full and energized throughout the day.

2. Loaded with Vitamins and Antioxidants

The vegetables in this dish—broccoli, bell peppers, and zucchini—are packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants that help support the immune system, promote glowing skin, and protect against disease.

3. Low in Calories and Carbs

This dish is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it an excellent option for those following a low-carb or keto lifestyle. Since the vegetables provide fiber, it keeps you full without excess calories.

4. Healthy Fats from Olive Oil

Olive oil is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which help reduce inflammation and improve cardiovascular health. It also enhances the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins from the vegetables.

5. No Heavy Sauces or Additives

Unlike many store-bought or restaurant dishes, this homemade skillet is free from added sugars, preservatives, and unhealthy fats. It’s a clean, wholesome meal you can feel good about eating.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information of the Healthy Chicken Skillet

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 4g
• Fat: 12g

Ingredients List

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp dried rosemary
• ½ tsp paprika
• ¼ to ½ tsp chili powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil, divided

For the Vegetables:

• 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 1 zucchini, sliced 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
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions to make the Healthy Chicken Skillet

1. Prepare and Season the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. This allows for quicker cooking and better absorption of the seasonings. Place the chicken in a bowl and season with garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle with ½ tbsp olive oil and toss to coat evenly.

2. Sear the Chicken

Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Sear for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Toss in the onions and sauté for 2 minutes until softened. Add the broccoli, zucchini, and bell peppers, then sprinkle with a little more salt and black pepper. Stir-fry for 4-6 minutes, allowing the veggies to remain crisp-tender.

4. Deglaze the Pan

Pour in ¼ cup of chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This step not only enhances flavor but also creates a light glaze that ties the dish together.

5. Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken and its juices back into the skillet. Toss everything together and cook for 1 more minute to ensure all the flavors meld.

6. Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

How to Serve the Healthy Chicken Skillet

This dish is incredibly versatile, and you can serve it in a variety of ways:

• Over steamed rice for a classic, satisfying meal
• Tossed with whole wheat pasta for a more filling option
• Served with a side of mashed potatoes for a hearty meal
• Wrapped in a warm tortilla for a quick chicken-veggie wrap

Pairing Suggestions of the Healthy Chicken Skillet

One of the best things about this Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is that it pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Whether you want to keep things light or make it a more substantial meal, there are plenty of options to complement this dish.

1. Grains and Starches

If you’re looking to add some healthy carbs, consider serving this dish with:

Steamed Brown Rice: A fiber-rich, nutty-tasting grain that absorbs the flavors beautifully
Quinoa: A high-protein grain that adds texture and extra nutrients
Whole Wheat Pasta: Toss the chicken and veggies with pasta and a drizzle of olive oil for a Mediterranean-inspired meal
Mashed Sweet Potatoes: A naturally sweet and creamy addition that balances the savory flavors
Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that keeps the dish light

2. Fresh and Crunchy Sides

Adding a fresh side dish can make the meal even more refreshing:

Simple Green Salad: A mix of leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast
Cucumber and Yogurt Salad: A cooling side with fresh dill and garlic complements the warm spices in the dish
Grilled Vegetables: Lightly charred zucchini, asparagus, or eggplant add extra flavor and color

3. Healthy Bread Options

For a heartier meal, you can serve this skillet dish with:

Whole Wheat Pita Bread: Perfect for scooping up the chicken and veggies
Toasted Garlic Bread: Adds a crunchy, garlicky contrast
Homemade Flatbread: Soft and chewy, great for wrapping the ingredients into a makeshift sandwich

4. Light and Refreshing Drinks

To round out the meal, consider pairing it with:

Lemon and Mint Infused Water: A simple yet refreshing option
Iced Green Tea: Light and antioxidant-rich
Freshly Squeezed Lemonade: A tangy, citrusy complement to the spices in the dish

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions of the Healthy Chicken Skillet

This Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is perfect for meal prep and leftovers, as it stores and reheats well without losing its delicious texture and flavor.

Storing in the Refrigerator

Allow the dish to cool completely before storing. Transfer the chicken and vegetables into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When storing, try to keep excess air out to prevent the chicken from drying out.

Freezing for Later Use

This dish is freezer-friendly, making it great for batch cooking. Here’s how to freeze it properly:

1. Let the dish cool completely.
2. Divide it into portion-sized containers or freezer bags for easy meal prep.
3. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

To thaw, place the container in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Instructions of the Healthy Chicken Skillet

Stovetop: Heat a pan over medium heat, add a splash of chicken broth or water, and stir until heated through (about 5 minutes).
Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place the meal in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15 minutes or until hot.

Avoid overheating, as this can dry out the chicken and make the vegetables mushy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this is an easy recipe, there are a few mistakes that can impact the final result. Here’s what to watch out for:

1. Overcrowding the Pan

If you put too much chicken or vegetables in the pan at once, they will steam instead of sear. This prevents the golden-brown color and crispy edges from forming. Cook in batches if necessary.

2. Not Drying the Chicken Before Cooking

Excess moisture on the chicken can prevent it from searing properly. Pat the chicken pieces dry with a paper towel before seasoning and cooking.

3. Overcooking the Vegetables

For the best texture, the vegetables should be crisp-tender, not mushy. Keep an eye on them and avoid over-stirring.

4. Skipping the Deglazing Step

Deglazing the pan with chicken broth not only enhances the flavor but also helps clean the pan while cooking. Scraping up the browned bits adds depth and richness to the dish.

5. Using Too Much Oil for this Healthy Chicken Skillet Recipe 

Since this dish already has natural moisture from the chicken and vegetables, too much oil can make it greasy. Stick to 2 tablespoons of olive oil for the best balance.

Pro Tips of the Healthy Chicken Skillet

1. Marinate the Chicken for Extra Flavor

If you have time, marinate the chicken for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking. Use olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and your favorite spices for an extra flavor boost.

2. Cut Vegetables Evenly

Uniformly cut veggies cook evenly and create a better texture. Try to keep them in similar-sized pieces for the best results.

3. Use Fresh Herbs for a Flavor Boost

Adding fresh parsley, basil, or cilantro at the end brings brightness and freshness to the dish. Dried herbs work well too, but fresh herbs elevate the flavors.

4. Try Different Protein Options

This dish works well with chicken thighs, turkey, shrimp, or even tofu. If using shrimp, cook it separately for 2-3 minutes per side to prevent overcooking.

5. Adjust the Spice Level

If you enjoy a bit of heat, add cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the seasoning mix.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Yes! If using frozen veggies, thaw them first and pat them dry before cooking to remove excess moisture.

2. What can I use instead of chicken breast?

You can use chicken thighs, turkey, shrimp, or even tofu. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

3. How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Swap out the chicken for tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

4. Can I add a sauce to this dish?

Absolutely! A drizzle of lemon garlic sauce, tahini dressing, or homemade teriyaki sauce can add extra flavor.

5. Can I cook this in an air fryer?

Yes! Cook the chicken separately in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, then sauté the vegetables in a pan before combining.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is a game-changer for anyone looking for a quick, nutritious, and flavorful meal. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s easy to customize, making it a perfect addition to your weekly meal rotation. With lean protein, vibrant vegetables, and bold seasonings, this dish is satisfying while keeping things light and healthy.

Whether you serve it over rice, toss it with pasta, or enjoy it on its own, it’s a meal that you’ll come back to again and again. The best part? Minimal cleanup, simple ingredients, and endless possibilities for customization.

I’d love to hear how this recipe turned out for you! Did you try any variations? What sides did you pair it with? Leave a comment below and share your experience. If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with family and friends who love quick, healthy, and delicious meals. Happy cooking!

Print