Need a healthy dinner that’s fast, flavorful, and easy to clean up? This Healthy Chicken & Veggie Skillet has you covered. With lean protein, colorful vegetables, and simple seasoning, this one-pan meal is perfect for clean eating and busy weeknights alike. One-skillet dinners have surged in popularity—Google Trends shows a 58% rise in searches for “healthy one-pan meals” this year. This recipe delivers nutrition and convenience without skimping on taste.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- 1 small red onion, chopped
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- Optional: squeeze of lemon juice or red pepper flakes for a kick
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add a touch more oil if needed.
- Add chopped onion, bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until vegetables are tender but still crisp.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Return cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything together.
- Add optional lemon juice or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Serve hot, straight from the skillet.
Variations
- Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a pescatarian or vegetarian version.
- Add mushrooms or snap peas for more veggie variety.
- Top with shredded mozzarella or feta for a cheesy twist.
- Serve over rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a more filling meal.
Cooking Note
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed for better searing.
- Use high heat for a quick stir-fry texture and vibrant veggies.
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the whole dish.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken and veggie skillet shines on its own, but you can also pair it with brown rice, couscous, or mashed sweet potatoes. Add a dollop of hummus or tzatziki on the side for Mediterranean flair. For meal preps, divide into containers with a grain base for grab-and-go healthy lunches.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave with a splash of water to maintain moisture. This dish is great for meal prepping—it holds up well and retains flavor after reheating.
Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 350
Protein: 38g
Sodium: 220mg
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Use avocado oil instead of olive oil for a different healthy fat source. Skip the optional cheese or use plant-based cheese to make it dairy-free. Amp up the veggie volume with leafy greens like kale or spinach stirred in at the end.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the chicken – keep the heat high and don’t stir too often.
- Adding all vegetables at once – stagger the cooking based on hardness for best texture.
- Skipping seasoning – taste and adjust salt and spices to balance flavors.
- Using wet vegetables – pat dry before sautéing to avoid steaming.
Conclusion
Healthy Chicken & Veggie Skillet is a weeknight hero—nutritious, quick, and bursting with color and flavor. Whether you’re eating clean, meal prepping, or simply short on time, this dish fits the bill. Try it once, and it’ll earn a spot in your regular dinner rotation. Don’t forget to tag your photos and let us know how you customized it!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use frozen vegetables?
A: Yes, just cook them a bit longer and drain excess moisture.
Q2: Is this meal low-carb?
A: Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs unless served with rice or pasta.
Q3: How do I keep the chicken moist?
A: Dice evenly, cook quickly on high heat, and avoid overcooking.
Q4: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Definitely! It keeps well and is perfect for meal prep containers.
Healthy Chicken & Veggie Skillet
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A quick, nutritious, and vibrant one-pan dinner made with lean chicken breast and colorful vegetables. Ready in just 25 minutes!
Ingredients
1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt & black pepper to taste
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
1 medium zucchini, sliced
1 small red onion, chopped
1 cup broccoli florets
Optional: squeeze of lemon juice or red pepper flakes for a kick
Instructions
1. Dice chicken and season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Add onion, peppers, zucchini, and broccoli. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until tender-crisp.
4. Return chicken to skillet and toss everything together.
5. Add optional lemon juice or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
6. Serve hot directly from skillet.
Notes
For best texture, don’t overcrowd the pan.
Lemon juice brightens the dish—add at the end.
Customize with your favorite veggies or protein.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 95mg