A Quick, Healthy Dinner Idea for Busy Weeknights

Looking for a fast, nutritious, and delicious dinner the whole family will love? This One-Pot Chicken and Veggie Skillet is your go-to solution. It’s packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and bold seasoning — all made in one pan for minimal cleanup. Whether you’re juggling a busy workday or just want something wholesome without the hassle, this recipe delivers satisfying flavor in under 30 minutes.

Make Dinner Easy and Delicious Tonight!

Don’t let dinner stress you out. This one-pot chicken and vegetable recipe is perfect for meal preppers, busy parents, or anyone who wants a quick, nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor. Give it a try and let it become a new favorite in your weeknight rotation!

Introduction

Healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated — and it definitely doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. That’s why we love this One-Pot Chicken and Veggie Skillet. It combines lean chicken breast with a medley of vibrant vegetables and a flavorful blend of herbs and spices, all simmered together in savory chicken broth. It’s simple, delicious, and cleanup is a breeze.

This meal works great as a stand-alone dish or served over a bed of fluffy rice or hearty quinoa for extra staying power. It’s an excellent recipe to keep in your back pocket for those evenings when time is short but good food is non-negotiable.

Tools, Servings, and Cooking Time

Kitchen Tools Needed:

Large non-stick skillet or sauté pan with lid
Wooden spoon or spatula
Cutting board and sharp knife
Measuring spoons
Measuring cup

Servings:

This recipe makes 4 generous servings.

Cooking Time:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this easy and flavorful skillet meal:

1 lb (450g) chicken breast, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup broccoli florets
1 medium zucchini, sliced
1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup chicken broth
Cooked rice or quinoa (optional, for serving)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Use enough oil to lightly coat the bottom of the pan so the chicken doesn’t stick. Allow the oil to shimmer before adding the meat.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the diced chicken breast to the hot skillet. Season it immediately with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Stir and spread the chicken pieces out so they cook evenly. Let them brown and cook through — this should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once the chicken is no longer pink and has a golden sear, proceed to the next step.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute, stirring continuously to prevent burning. Garlic adds depth and aromatic flavor to the dish.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

Toss in the broccoli florets, zucchini slices, and chopped bell pepper. Stir everything together, making sure the veggies are evenly distributed. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender yet crisp. Overcooking can make the vegetables mushy, so keep a close eye.

Step 5: Pour in Chicken Broth

Once the vegetables are cooked to your liking, pour in the chicken broth. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3 to 5 minutes. This will help the flavors meld and create a light, savory sauce.

Step 6: Adjust and Serve

Taste your skillet and adjust the seasonings as needed — add more salt, pepper, or herbs based on your preference. If desired, serve the mixture over a bed of warm rice or quinoa for a more filling meal.

Recommendations for Recipe Success

To make sure your One-Pot Chicken and Veggie Skillet turns out perfect every time, keep these helpful tips in mind:

Cut everything uniformly: Ensure the chicken and vegetables are cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Use a large skillet to give the ingredients enough space to cook and brown properly.
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality chicken make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste as you go. You can always add more salt or herbs, but you can’t take them out once added.
Let it rest: After cooking, let the skillet sit off heat for a minute to allow the flavors to fully develop before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions:

Serve over steamed white or brown rice, quinoa, or even couscous for a complete meal.
Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra richness.
Pair with a side salad or whole grain bread to round out the plate.

Storage Instructions:

Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: This dish freezes well. Cool completely, transfer to freezer-safe containers, and store for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying. You can also microwave in 60-second intervals, stirring in between.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes! Chicken thighs are slightly fattier and more flavorful. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly, and trim excess fat if needed.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely. Swap the chicken for canned chickpeas, tofu, or even tempeh. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian.

3. What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to get creative. Mushrooms, snap peas, carrots, spinach, or green beans all work well. Just adjust cooking times accordingly based on their texture.

4. Is it okay to use frozen vegetables?

Yes, you can use frozen veggies in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture that could make the dish soggy.

5. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when you add the garlic. You can also finish the dish with a drizzle of hot sauce for added heat.

Conclusion

The One-Pot Chicken and Veggie Skillet is everything a busy cook could ask for: quick, healthy, flavorful, and mess-free. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a satisfying meal on the table in half an hour or less. It’s highly customizable, great for leftovers, and a perfect weeknight staple.

So, next time you’re wondering what to cook, give this one-pot wonder a try — and enjoy every savory bite!

Ready to impress your taste buds and save time in the kitchen? Grab your skillet and get cooking today!