Introduction
Transforming simple chicken and veggies into a flavour-packed, satisfying meal doesn’t have to be a chore! This Healthy Chicken and Vegetable Skillet recipe is your weeknight superhero, ready to save dinner time with minimal fuss and maximum deliciousness. It’s a perfect example of how everyday ingredients can become a family favourite with a few simple steps. Get ready to enjoy a healthy and hearty meal the whole family will love!
Why This Works
This recipe works because it’s incredibly versatile, quick, and uses ingredients you probably already have! Minimal cleanup is a bonus, leaving you with more time to enjoy your delicious, healthy dinner. The combination of savory chicken, tender vegetables, and a touch of seasoning creates a balanced and satisfying meal that ticks all the boxes for a busy weeknight.
Key Ingredients
- 🐔 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 🥕 1 large carrot, peeled and chopped
- 🥦 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
- 🧅 1 medium onion, chopped
- 🫑 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🌿 1 tbsp olive oil
- 🌿 1 tsp dried oregano
- 🌿 1 tsp dried basil
- 🧂 1/2 tsp salt
- 胡椒 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
1️⃣ Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
2️⃣ Add the onion, carrot, and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
3️⃣ Stir in the garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
4️⃣ Add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Pour in 1/2 cup of chicken broth or water.
5️⃣ Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6️⃣ Serve hot and enjoy!
Handy Tips
- For extra flavour, marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
- If you like a little bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet.
Heat Control
Medium-high heat is used initially to brown the chicken and sear the vegetables, creating a delicious crust. Lowering the heat to medium-low allows the vegetables to cook evenly and the chicken to reach its full internal temperature without burning. Always ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Crunch Factor
While this recipe focuses on tender vegetables, you can achieve a slightly crispier result by increasing the cooking time slightly towards the end, without the lid, to allow some of the moisture to evaporate. For extra crunch, roast the vegetables before adding them to the skillet.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- Use pre-chopped vegetables to save time.
- Add a splash of white wine or lemon juice for extra zing!
- For a creamier sauce, stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream at the end of cooking.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This dish isn’t typically gifted, but you could include it as part of a larger meal for a potluck or family gathering. A simple, reusable container would be perfect for transport.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Mediterranean Twist: Add crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and a sprinkle of dried parsley.
🌟 Spicy Kick: Include a chopped jalapeño pepper and a dash of hot sauce.
🌟 Asian Fusion: Use soy sauce, ginger, and garlic instead of oregano and basil. Add some snow peas for extra crunch.
🌟 Creamy Cilantro Lime: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt and freshly chopped cilantro with a squeeze of lime juice at the end.
Troubleshooting
- Chicken is dry: Ensure you don’t overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Vegetables are mushy: Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook in batches if necessary. Also, avoid overcooking and ensure you don’t add too much liquid.
- Sauce is too watery: Simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce the liquid. A cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water) can also help thicken the sauce.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time. Add them during the last 5-7 minutes of cooking.
- Can I use other types of chicken? Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of breasts, but be mindful they may take a little longer to cook.
- Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes! Brown the chicken, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
- What can I serve this with? This dish is delicious served with rice, quinoa, couscous, or crusty bread.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, provided you use gluten-free chicken broth if adding any.
Conclusion
This Healthy Chicken and Vegetable Skillet is a true weeknight winner – simple, healthy and absolutely delicious! We hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we do. Share your creations with us on social media – we’d love to see your delicious results! Happy cooking!