Looking for a quick, tasty meal? Try my One-Pot Chicken Veggie Skillet! This dish is packed with protein and colorful veggies, making it both healthy and delicious. You’ll find all the essential steps to create this easy recipe right here. Let’s dive into the flavors and simplicity of this one-pot wonder that your family will love!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This one-pot meal comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean chicken and a variety of colorful vegetables, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
- Flavorful and Versatile: The Italian seasoning blend adds a delightful flavor, and you can easily swap in your favorite vegetables.
- Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one skillet means less time spent on dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for One-Pot Chicken Veggie Skillet
To make the One-Pot Chicken Veggie Skillet, gather these main ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (your choice of color), diced for vibrant flair
- 1 medium zucchini, cut into half-moon slices
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, packed
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend
- Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed thoroughly under cold water
Each ingredient plays a key role in creating flavor and nutrition. The chicken gives protein, while the veggies add color and vitamins. Quinoa serves as a great base, offering fiber and a nutty taste.
Optional Garnishes and Additions
You can enhance your dish with these optional garnishes and additions:
- Freshly chopped parsley or basil for garnish
- A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness
- Grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor
- Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
These garnishes can make your skillet pop with color and flavor. They also add a personal touch to the dish.
Nutritional Information
This One-Pot Chicken Veggie Skillet is not just tasty; it is also healthy. Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) has roughly:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Fat: 10g
This meal is well-balanced. It provides protein, good fats, and plenty of veggies, making it a great choice for any meal. Enjoy a nutritious dinner without the fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
First, heat the olive oil in a large, non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced chicken. Season it with sea salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until it turns golden brown and is fully cooked. When done, carefully remove the chicken from the skillet. Set it aside on a plate to keep it warm.
Sautéing the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes. Stir often until the onion becomes soft and clear. Next, add the diced bell pepper, zucchini slices, and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook this mix for about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally until the veggies soften and show bright colors.
Cooking the Quinoa and Combining Ingredients
Now, stir in the rinsed quinoa, mixing it well with the vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth and bring this mixture to a rolling boil. Once it boils, reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. The quinoa will absorb all the liquid and become fluffy.
Final Touches and Serving Method
After the quinoa cooks, add the reserved chicken back into the skillet. Toss in the fresh spinach and stir everything together gently. The spinach will wilt in about 2-3 minutes. Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. For a beautiful finish, serve the One-Pot Chicken Veggie Skillet directly from the skillet. You can add freshly chopped herbs on top for extra color and flavor.
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken
To get tender chicken, start with even-sized pieces. Make sure to dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks. This helps them cook evenly. Heat your skillet to medium and add olive oil. Once hot, place the chicken in the skillet. Season it with sea salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Look for a golden brown color and check that it's no longer pink inside. This step ensures juicy chicken every time.
Enhancing Flavors with Seasoning
Seasoning makes a big difference in taste. I use sea salt and black pepper as my base. Italian seasoning adds depth and warmth. Feel free to get creative! Try adding paprika for a smoky flavor or red pepper flakes for some heat. For a fresh twist, add lemon zest or fresh herbs at the end. Remember, taste your dish as you go, and adjust the seasoning to make it just right.
Quick Cleaning Tips for Easy Cleanup
Cleaning up can be a pain, but it doesn't have to be! Start by soaking your skillet in warm, soapy water right after cooking. This helps loosen stuck bits. Use a spatula to scrape any residue while it's soaking. If you have stubborn spots, sprinkle some baking soda and scrub gently. For quick wipe-downs, keep a damp cloth nearby to tackle spills as you cook. This way, you can enjoy your meal without stressing over the mess.
Pro Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes before cooking can help enhance its flavor and tenderness.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables or whatever you have on hand for added variety and nutrition.
- One-Pot Cooking: For an even richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the skillet after sautéing the vegetables before adding the quinoa and broth.
- Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, making this dish great for meal prep!
Variations
Different Protein Options
You can easily swap chicken for other proteins. Turkey works well and has a mild taste. Just cook it like you do chicken. Shrimp is another great choice. It adds a nice seafood flavor. Cook shrimp for about 3-5 minutes until pink. You can also try tofu for a meat-free option. Just ensure it's firm and well-pressed.
Vegetable Substitutions
Feel free to mix up the veggies. Broccoli is a crunchy choice that adds color and vitamins. Carrots bring a sweet flavor and nice texture. You can even use asparagus or green beans for a fresh twist. Try bell peppers in different colors for a vibrant skillet.
Vegan Adaptations
To make this dish vegan, skip the chicken and use chickpeas instead. They add protein and fiber. Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a rich taste. You can also add more veggies like mushrooms or eggplant. This keeps the meal filling and tasty without any animal products.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers Properly
To keep your One-Pot Chicken Veggie Skillet fresh, let it cool first. Place the leftovers in an airtight container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. Store the container in the fridge. It will stay good for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, freezing is a great option.
Reheating Tips for Best Flavor
When you are ready to eat your leftovers, reheat them gently. Use the stove or microwave. If using the stove, add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Heat on low, stirring often. This helps keep the flavors bright. In the microwave, cover the dish to trap steam. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.
Freezing Suggestions
If you want to freeze this dish, follow these steps. Let it cool completely before freezing. Use a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Label it with the date and contents. This dish can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge. Then, follow the reheating tips for the best taste.
FAQs
How long does it take to cook One-Pot Chicken Veggie Skillet?
It takes about 30 minutes to cook One-Pot Chicken Veggie Skillet. You will spend 10 minutes on prep and 20 minutes cooking. This quick time makes it perfect for busy weeknights.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free. Just use gluten-free quinoa and check your chicken broth for gluten. Many brands offer gluten-free options, so you can enjoy this dish without worry.
What can I serve with One-Pot Chicken Veggie Skillet?
You can serve this dish with a fresh green salad or crusty bread. A side of roasted vegetables also works well. This meal is filling on its own, but these sides add extra flavor and texture.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare One-Pot Chicken Veggie Skillet ahead of time. Cook the dish and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
This article covered the one-pot chicken veggie skillet recipe from start to finish. We discussed the key ingredients, simple instructions, and useful tips to make cooking easy. You learned how to use various proteins and vegetables for different tastes. I also shared storage tips to keep your meal fresh.
Try cooking this dish for a quick and delicious dinner. Enjoy the flavors and the joy of cooking!
