There’s nothing quite like a hearty, one-pan meal that’s both nourishing and easy to whip up on a busy night. This Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is packed with lean protein, vibrant veggies, and bold flavors—all coming together in just 30 minutes.
I first started making this recipe when I needed a quick, wholesome meal that didn’t require a ton of cleanup. Now, it’s a regular in my kitchen, perfect for meal prep or a simple family dinner. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable with whatever vegetables you have on hand!
Why You'll Love This Healthy Chicken And Vegetables Skillet
Get ready to add a new go-to meal to your weekly rotation. This chicken and veggie skillet is a lifesaver for anyone looking for a healthy, delicious dinner with minimal effort.
First, it’s incredibly quick and easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and one pan, you’ll have a balanced meal ready in no time—perfect for those busy evenings when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
It’s also packed with nutrition. Lean chicken breast provides a protein boost, while a mix of fresh vegetables delivers fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants to keep you feeling your best.
The flavors are absolutely amazing. A simple blend of garlic, herbs, and olive oil transforms everyday ingredients into something truly special. The chicken turns golden and juicy, while the veggies become perfectly tender with just the right amount of caramelization.
And let’s not forget the easy cleanup! Since everything cooks in one skillet, you won’t be left with a sink full of dishes—just one pan to wash, and you’re done.
Ingredients Notes
The beauty of this dish lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a key role in making this skillet meal both nutritious and delicious.
Chicken Breast – I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they cook quickly and stay lean. If you prefer, you can swap them out for chicken thighs, which offer a bit more richness and tenderness.
Bell Peppers – These add natural sweetness and a pop of color. Red, yellow, and orange peppers work best for their mild flavor, but green peppers add a slightly sharper bite.
Zucchini – A fantastic low-carb veggie that soaks up all the flavors in the pan. If you don’t have zucchini, you can use yellow squash or asparagus for a similar texture.
Cherry Tomatoes – These burst with juicy goodness as they cook, adding a light, tangy contrast to the dish. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, sun-dried tomatoes can work as a more intense alternative.
Garlic & Onion – These aromatics are essential for building deep, savory flavor. If you love a little extra heat, adding red pepper flakes can give the dish a subtle kick.
Olive Oil & Seasonings – A good extra virgin olive oil brings everything together with a light richness, while Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper keep the flavors well-balanced.
No special equipment is needed—just a good large skillet to ensure even cooking and enough space for everything to brown beautifully.
How To Make This Healthy Chicken And Vegetables Skillet
This skillet meal comes together in just a few simple steps. Let’s break it down so you can have dinner on the table in no time.
Start by prepping your ingredients. Dice the chicken into bite-sized cubes so it cooks quickly and evenly. Slice your bell peppers, zucchini, and onions into strips, and halve the cherry tomatoes to help them cook faster.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced chicken in a single layer. Let it sear undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown, then stir and cook for another few minutes until cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add another small drizzle of olive oil and toss in the onions and bell peppers. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften. Then, add the zucchini and cherry tomatoes, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until everything is tender and slightly caramelized.
Return the chicken to the skillet and sprinkle in the garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together, letting the flavors meld for about 2 minutes. If you want extra brightness, squeeze in a bit of fresh lemon juice right before serving.
Your skillet meal is now ready! The total cooking time is around 25-30 minutes, making this a perfect weeknight dinner option that doesn’t compromise on flavor or nutrition.
Storage Options
This dish is just as delicious the next day, making it a great choice for meal prep.
For the fridge, store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to develop, making reheated portions taste just as good as fresh.
If you’d like to freeze this meal, portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing to maintain the best texture.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat on the stove over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, adding a splash of broth or water if needed. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize based on what you have in your kitchen.
Swap the protein – Instead of chicken, try using shrimp, tofu, or even chickpeas for a plant-based version. Each alternative absorbs the seasonings beautifully while adding a different texture.
Switch up the vegetables – Almost any veggie works in this dish! Try broccoli, mushrooms, green beans, or spinach to mix things up. Just adjust cooking times to prevent overcooking.
Add a grain – Serve this skillet meal over quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a heartier, more filling meal. The extra carbs will make it even more satisfying.
Make it spicy – If you love heat, add crushed red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce. Spicy elements enhance the flavors and add an extra layer of excitement.
Try a different seasoning blend – While Italian seasoning is a classic choice, you can switch things up with cajun, taco, or Mediterranean seasonings for a whole new flavor profile.
No matter how you customize it, this Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is sure to become a regular in your meal plan. It’s wholesome, easy, and full of fresh, vibrant flavors—everything you need for a quick and satisfying dinner!
PrintHealthy Chicken And Vegetables Skillet Recipe
This healthy chicken and vegetables skillet recipe is a delicious and nutritious one-pan meal. Made with lean chicken breast, fresh vegetables, and simple seasonings, it's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. High in protein and fiber, this dish is great for anyone looking to eat clean while enjoying bold flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup red onion, sliced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken, season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes until browned.
- Add zucchini, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Stir well.
- Sprinkle Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, then pour in chicken broth. Cook for 7-8 minutes until vegetables soften.
- Drizzle with lemon juice and stir in fresh parsley.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Substitute vegetables based on preference or seasonality.
- Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Serve over brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a balanced meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 320mg
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