Chicken & Vegetables Skillet – Easy One-Pan Weeknight Dinner

This Chicken & Vegetables Skillet is a wholesome, one-pan meal that’s quick, nutritious, and brimming with flavor. Think juicy, pan-seared chicken paired with a medley of seasonal vegetables—all tossed in a light garlic-herb sauce that brings everything together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re trying to eat cleaner, meal prep for the week, or just avoid a pile of dirty dishes, this all-in-one dinner has your back.

Inspired by the simplicity of Mediterranean cooking and the convenience of modern skillet meals, this recipe is endlessly customizable and packed with nourishing ingredients. It’s ideal for busy families, health-conscious eaters, or anyone looking to get dinner on the table fast—without compromising on flavor or satisfaction.

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Ingredients Overview

Each component in this skillet plays a role in texture, color, and nutrition. Here’s how they all come together:

Chicken Breast (or Thighs)

Lean, protein-rich, and quick to cook. Chicken breast is a classic choice for healthy meals, while boneless, skinless thighs offer extra juiciness and flavor. Either works well depending on your preference.

Bell Peppers

Bell peppers bring vibrant color and a subtle sweetness. Red, yellow, and orange varieties are perfect for this dish. They also offer a good dose of vitamin C and antioxidants.

Zucchini

Zucchini is light and tender when sautéed and adds a soft contrast to the firmer veggies. It absorbs flavors well and has a mild, clean taste that doesn’t overpower the dish.

Cherry Tomatoes

These burst with juicy acidity when cooked and add a beautiful pop of red. They balance the savory chicken with a bright, slightly sweet note.

Onion & Garlic

Onions add sweetness and depth, while garlic brings the aroma and bite that pulls the flavors together. Sautéing both helps build a flavorful base.

Olive Oil

The heart of Mediterranean-style cooking, olive oil is used to sauté the chicken and vegetables while adding healthy fats and a smooth, buttery finish.

Italian Seasoning

A mix of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme gives this skillet a rustic, comforting taste that complements all the veggies.

Lemon Juice

A splash of lemon juice adds brightness and brings out the freshness in the vegetables, making the whole dish feel lighter and more vibrant.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfectly cooked, colorful skillet dinner.

1. Prep the Ingredients

• Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces and season with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning.

• Slice the bell peppers and zucchini.

• Halve the cherry tomatoes and thinly slice the onion.

• Mince 2–3 cloves of garlic.

2. Sear the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer and sear undisturbed for 2–3 minutes to develop a golden crust. Flip and cook another 3–4 minutes until fully cooked. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the onion and bell peppers. Sauté for 3 minutes until slightly softened. Add the zucchini and garlic and cook for another 4–5 minutes.

4. Add the Tomatoes

Once the vegetables are tender-crisp, stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 1–2 minutes until they start to soften and release juices.

5. Combine & Finish

Return the chicken to the skillet and toss everything together. Add the remaining 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and a generous splash of lemon juice. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Let everything warm through for 1–2 minutes.

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Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Customize Your Veggies

• Add Mushrooms: For extra umami and a meatier texture.

• Swap Zucchini for Broccoli: If you prefer more crunch.

• Use Frozen Veggies: Just thaw and drain before sautéing to avoid excess moisture.

Protein Swaps

• Turkey Breast: A leaner alternative to chicken.

• Plant-Based: Try tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.

Add Carbs

• Serve over rice, quinoa, or couscous for a heartier meal.

• Toss with whole wheat pasta and a little parmesan for an Italian-inspired twist.

Spice It Up

• Add red pepper flakes for heat.

• Use Cajun or Southwest seasoning for a bolder flavor.

Make-Ahead Tip

• This skillet meal stores well and is great for meal prep. Simply cool and divide into containers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

This Chicken & Vegetables Skillet is perfect for:

• Quick Weeknight Dinners: One pan and ready in under 30 minutes.

• Meal Prep: Pack into containers with a scoop of brown rice or farro.

• Light Lunches: Serve as-is or wrapped in a warm tortilla for a healthy wrap.

• Summer Dining: Serve it over a fresh arugula salad or chilled pasta.

Pair with:

• Crusty bread or garlic toast

• Lemon herb yogurt sauce

• A crisp white wine or sparkling water with citrus

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Nutritional & Health Notes

This dish is a well-rounded blend of lean protein, fiber, and healthy fats:

• Lean Protein: Chicken helps keep you full and supports muscle health.

• Colorful Veggies: Bell peppers, tomatoes, and zucchini offer antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and anti-inflammatory benefits.

• Heart-Healthy Fats: Olive oil contributes to satiety and supports cardiovascular health.

• Low Carb Option: Great for those watching carbohydrate intake—just skip the rice or bread pairing.

It’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and can easily be made keto-friendly by omitting tomatoes and serving over cauliflower rice.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes! Use a high-quality frozen stir-fry mix or individual veggies. Thaw and pat dry before sautéing to avoid excess water in the skillet.

2. How long does this dish last in the fridge?

It keeps well for 3–4 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave with a splash of broth or olive oil.

3. Can I add a sauce to this skillet?

Absolutely. A drizzle of balsamic glaze, pesto, or lemon tahini dressing adds flavor without complicating the recipe.

4. What cut of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs work great. Thighs are juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked.

5. Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes. Add crushed red pepper flakes, sliced jalapeños, or use a spicy herb blend like Cajun seasoning.

6. What’s the best way to get crispy edges on the veggies?

Use high heat and don’t overcrowd the pan. Let vegetables sit undisturbed for 1–2 minutes before stirring to develop caramelization.

7. Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

It can be frozen, though the vegetables may lose some texture. For best results, freeze just the cooked chicken and prepare fresh veggies when ready to serve

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