Garlic Chicken and Veggie Skillet: A Quick and Healthy One-Pan Dinner

Garlic Chicken and Veggie Skillet: A Quick and Healthy One-Pan Dinner

Looking for a healthy, colorful, and utterly delicious dinner that comes together in just one pan? Meet the Garlic Chicken and Veggie Skillet, a recipe that’s as easy to make as it is beautiful to serve. Packed with juicy chunks of garlic-seasoned chicken and crisp, sautéed vegetables, this dish is a celebration of vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal-prepping for the week, or simply craving something light yet satisfying, this skillet is the perfect answer. With its rainbow of vegetables and protein-packed chicken, it’s a balanced meal that’s bursting with nutrients and flavor. Plus, cleanup is a breeze thanks to the one-pan preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Simplicity: Everything cooks in a single skillet, saving time and effort.
• Nutrient-Packed: A variety of fresh veggies like broccoli, zucchini, and bell peppers provide vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Customizable: Use your favorite vegetables or swap in tofu or shrimp for a twist.
• Perfect for Busy Days: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is a lifesaver for hectic weeknights.

A Healthy Skillet for Any Occasion

The Garlic Chicken and Veggie Skillet is inspired by the beauty of cooking simple, whole foods. This dish combines tender, seasoned chicken with a medley of fresh vegetables, all sautéed in a savory garlic butter sauce. The result is a harmonious balance of textures and flavors: the chicken is juicy and flavorful, while the vegetables retain their natural crunch and sweetness.

This recipe is perfect for any occasion. Serve it as a stand-alone dinner, over steamed rice or quinoa for a heartier meal, or alongside a slice of crusty bread for an added touch of indulgence.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s what you’ll need to make this nutritious and delicious skillet:

1. Chicken Breast: Lean and protein-rich, chicken breast is perfect for soaking up the garlic butter flavors.
2. Vegetables: A colorful mix of broccoli, zucchini, red bell peppers, and yellow bell peppers adds freshness and crunch.
3. Garlic Butter Sauce: A simple combination of minced garlic and butter creates a rich, aromatic base.
4. Seasonings: Paprika, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper bring warmth and depth to the dish.
5. Olive Oil: Helps sear the chicken and sauté the veggies to perfection.
6. Fresh Parsley: Adds a touch of freshness and brightness at the end.

How to Make Garlic Chicken and Veggie Skillet

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs. Toss to coat evenly.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed. Toss in the broccoli florets, zucchini slices, and bell peppers. Sauté for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

• Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet and add the butter and minced garlic to the center. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, then toss everything together to coat the vegetables in the garlic butter.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

• Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to combine with the vegetables and sauce. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and a dash of cracked black pepper.

Step 6: Serve

• Serve hot, either on its own or over rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Chef’s Tips

• Cut Vegetables Evenly: Ensure all vegetables are roughly the same size to ensure even cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to achieve a golden, crispy sear.
• Add Spice: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce.
• Meal Prep-Friendly: This dish keeps well in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and work just as well in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re fully cooked.

2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely. Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative or additional olive oil to make the dish dairy-free.

3. What other vegetables can I use?
Feel free to add mushrooms, asparagus, snap peas, or even cherry tomatoes to suit your taste preferences.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this skillet is perfect for meal prep. Store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

5. What should I serve with this dish?
This skillet is delicious on its own, but you can serve it over rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes for a more filling meal.

Nutritional Benefits

The Garlic Chicken and Veggie Skillet isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients:

• Protein: The chicken provides lean, high-quality protein to keep you full and energized.
• Fiber: The vegetables are a great source of dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting overall health.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Broccoli and bell peppers offer vitamin C, while zucchini adds potassium and antioxidants.