There’s something utterly delightful about combining wholesome ingredients into a single sizzling skillet that transforms an ordinary weeknight dinner into a vibrant and nourishing feast. This Healthy Chicken and Vegetable Skillet brings together tender chicken breasts seasoned to perfection and an array of colorful veggies that stay crisp-tender, all bathed in a light lemon-garlic broth. From the moment you start cooking, you’ll notice how quickly the flavors build: earthy paprika and aromatic garlic powder clinging to juicy chicken, bright cherry tomatoes bursting with sweetness, and crisp broccoli delivering that satisfying snap. It’s the kind of dish that makes your kitchen smell welcoming and your dinner table look like a spread you’d happily share with friends.
Beyond its lively presentation, this one-pan wonder is a breeze to prepare—perfect for those evenings when you want something healthy, quick, and fuss-free. The combination of low-sodium chicken broth and fresh lemon juice infuses every bite with zesty brightness, cutting through the richness of olive oil and adding a refreshing twist. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor payoff, you’ll find yourself turning to this recipe again and again when you need a balanced meal that feels both comforting and light. Plus, it stores beautifully, making it an ideal candidate for meal prep so you can enjoy homemade goodness even on your busiest days.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN HEALTHY CHICKEN AND VEGETABLE SKILLET
To make this skillet shine, we rely on a handful of fresh, pantry-friendly staples that harmonize to create layers of taste and texture. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from building the base flavors to adding pops of color and nutrition.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
Lean and versatile, these chicken breasts are the protein foundation of the dish. They absorb the spices effortlessly and cook up juicy when seared just right.
- Olive Oil
Adds a silky richness and helps achieve a beautifully golden crust on the chicken while also carrying the flavors of herbs and spices.
- Garlic Powder
Brings a warm, savory depth to the seasoning blend, enriching both the chicken and vegetables with its subtle pungency.
- Onion Powder
Complements garlic powder by offering a mellow, slightly sweet note that rounds out the overall seasoning mix.
- Paprika
Lends a gentle smokiness and a vibrant reddish hue that makes the chicken look as good as it tastes.
- Salt
Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors, allowing each ingredient to shine without becoming bland.
- Black Pepper
Offers a touch of heat and complexity, balancing the lemon’s brightness and the sweetness of the vegetables.
- Broccoli Florets
Provide a satisfying crunch and earthy green color, packed with fiber and vitamins to round out the meal.
- Red Bell Pepper
Contributes sweetness, crispness, and a burst of red that livens up the skillet visually and nutritionally.
- Zucchini
Adds a subtle freshness and tender bite, soaking up the zesty broth while staying firm enough to provide texture.
- Cherry Tomatoes
Burst in the mouth with juicy acidity, brightening each forkful and mingling beautifully with the lemon-garlic broth.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth
Creates a flavorful cooking liquid that ties together all the ingredients without overwhelming them with excess salt.
- Fresh Lemon Juice
Injects a vibrant citrus zing that cuts through richness, making the dish feel light and rejuvenating.
- Fresh Parsley
Offers a final flourish of color and a herbal lift, bringing a fresh, green finish to every bite.
HOW TO MAKE HEALTHY CHICKEN AND VEGETABLE SKILLET
Let’s get cooking! In just a few simple stages, you’ll transform raw ingredients into a harmonious, flavorful skillet meal. Follow these steps for tender chicken, crisp-tender veggies, and a bright, savory sauce.
1. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides generously with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This ensures every bite is well-flavored and forms a beautiful crust during searing.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the chicken breasts and cook undisturbed for about 5–7 minutes per side, or until the exterior is golden brown and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
3. Begin the Veggies: In the same hot skillet, add the broccoli florets. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn a brighter green and become slightly tender but still retain a crisp bite.
4. Add More Vegetables: Stir in the sliced red bell pepper, zucchini, and halved cherry tomatoes. Continue cooking for another 5–6 minutes, tossing occasionally, until the vegetables soften slightly yet remain vibrant and crisp.
5. Build the Sauce: Pour the low-sodium chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to combine with the vegetables. Bring to a simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the liquid to reduce slightly.
6. Reunite Chicken and Veggies: Nestle the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, nestling them among the vegetables. Drizzle the fresh lemon juice over everything and cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat it all through.
7. Finish with Fresh Parsley: Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle chopped parsley over the top. Let it rest for a couple of minutes, then serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR HEALTHY CHICKEN AND VEGETABLE SKILLET
When your skillet of tender chicken and vibrant vegetables is ready, the right accompaniments can elevate it from a simple dinner to a memorable meal. Whether you’re aiming for cozy family comfort or a light yet satisfying lunch, pairing and presentation can make all the difference in taking this dish to the next level.
- Serve Over Whole Grains: Spoon the chicken and veggies over a bed of quinoa, brown rice, or farro to turn this into a more substantial main course. The grains soak up the zesty broth and add heartiness.
- Pair with a Crisp Salad: Complement the warm skillet with a side of mixed greens dressed in a light vinaigrette. The contrast of textures and temperatures brightens up the plate.
- Garnish with Extra Zest: Top each portion with an additional sprinkle of fresh lemon zest or a wedge of lemon on the side for an eye-catching pop of color and citrus aroma.
- Offer a Cooling Dip: Serve with a small ramekin of tzatziki or plain Greek yogurt spiked with a bit of garlic and herbs. The cool creaminess provides a delightful counterpoint to the warm, spiced chicken.
HOW TO STORE HEALTHY CHICKEN AND VEGETABLE SKILLET
Planning ahead? This skillet recipe is a star performer in the meal-prep department. With proper storage, it will maintain its flavors, textures, and nutritional value, making your busy week a little easier and more delicious.
- Refrigerator Storage: Transfer cooled leftovers into an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent dryness, then heat gently over medium heat or in the microwave.
- Freezer-Friendly Portions: For longer storage, divide the cooled skillet into individual freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as directed for best results.
- Separate Components: To preserve texture, store the chicken and vegetables separately if you plan to freeze. This prevents the veggies from becoming too mushy during reheating. Recombine when warming.
- Label and Date: Always write the date on containers. This helps you keep track of freshness and ensures you enjoy the dish while it’s at its peak flavor and quality.
CONCLUSION
This Healthy Chicken and Vegetable Skillet has quickly earned its place as a weeknight superstar in my kitchen, and for good reason. It’s a beautiful fusion of tender, herb-infused chicken and colorful vegetables, all mingling in a tangy lemon-garlic broth that feels both comforting and light. The simplicity of a one-pan method means less time scrubbing dishes and more time savoring your meal—and with a total cook time of just about 25 minutes, you can have dinner on the table faster than you can decide what to order for takeout. Whether you’re new to cooking or looking for a reliably tasty, beginner-friendly recipe, this skillet delivers every time.
Feel free to print this article and tuck it into your recipe binder or bookmark it on your favorite device so you can revisit it whenever you need a speedy, healthy dinner solution. Don’t forget, there’s an FAQ section below to answer common questions about ingredient swaps, seasoning tweaks, and more. If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop a comment, share your tweaks, or ask any questions you have. Your feedback and stories make our cooking community richer, and I’m always here to help you make this dish your own. Enjoy every vibrant, flavor-packed bite!
Healthy Chicken and Vegetable Skillet
Description
Tender chicken breasts sizzle alongside crisp broccoli, sweet bell peppers, zucchini, and juicy tomatoes in a zesty lemon-garlic broth. Ready in minutes and ideal for easy meal prep.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Start by preparing the chicken breasts. Season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
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Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts to the pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
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In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
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Add the sliced red bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes to the skillet, and continue cooking for another 5-6 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant and crisp.
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Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and stir well to combine with the vegetables. Bring to a simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the vegetable mixture. Pour the lemon juice over the chicken and vegetables, and cook for another 2 minutes to heat everything through.
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Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving.
Note
- You can switch up the vegetables based on what you have on hand, such as adding carrots, green beans, or asparagus.
- For a spicier kick, try adding red pepper flakes to the chicken seasoning or sprinkle some on top at the end.
- This dish is great for meal prep! You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- For a little extra flavor, you can also add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese over the top right before serving.
