Chicken and Veggie Skillet with Fresh Herbs: A Flavorful and Wholesome Meal
Chicken and Veggie Skillet with Fresh Herbs is a delightful, one-pan dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs. This meal is packed with flavors and nutrients, making it the perfect option for busy weeknights or when you’re looking for a healthy, satisfying meal. Whether you are preparing dinner for yourself or feeding a family, this recipe is quick, easy to prepare, and incredibly customizable. In this article, we’ll cover everything from the basic recipe to advanced techniques, storage tips, and even dietary adaptations. For more inspiration, check out Healthy Chicken Recipes for Every Occasion and Easy Veggie Skillet Dishes.
Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions
Ingredients
To create the delicious Chicken and Veggie Skillet with Fresh Herbs, you’ll need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or any preferred cooking oil)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for a fresh zing)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and a drizzle of olive oil. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Once done, remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if necessary. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Then, add the bell pepper, zucchini, and broccoli. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet crisp.
- Add garlic and herbs: Add the minced garlic and fresh herbs (oregano, thyme, parsley) to the vegetables. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and the herbs are incorporated into the veggies.
- Finish the dish: Slice the cooked chicken breasts into strips and return them to the skillet. Add the cherry tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir everything together and cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish for a burst of freshness (optional).
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve the chicken and veggies with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish. Enjoy!
This Chicken and Veggie Skillet with Fresh Herbs is perfect on its own or served with a side of rice, quinoa, or a leafy green salad.
Advanced Techniques
1. Grilling the Chicken for Extra Flavor
For an added smoky flavor, you can grill the chicken breasts instead of pan-searing them. Preheat your grill to medium-high and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side. Grilling the chicken will add a rich, charred flavor that complements the fresh herbs and veggies.
2. Roasting the Vegetables
Instead of sautéing the vegetables in the skillet, you can roast them in the oven for a caramelized, slightly smoky flavor. Toss the chopped vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Once roasted, add the veggies to the skillet and proceed with the recipe.
3. Herb Variations
While this recipe calls for oregano, thyme, and parsley, feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like basil, rosemary, or tarragon. The different herbs will give the dish a unique twist and allow you to tailor the flavors to your preferences.
See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.
Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips
How to Store Chicken and Veggie Skillet
If you have leftovers or want to meal prep, storing this dish is straightforward:
- In the refrigerator: Store the skillet in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the chicken and vegetables cool down to room temperature before refrigerating to avoid condensation inside the container.
- In the freezer: You can freeze the cooked chicken and veggies for up to 2-3 months. Store in a freezer-safe container or bag and label it with the date. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
Reheating Tips
Reheat the dish gently over low-medium heat to avoid overcooking the chicken or vegetables. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the dish seems dry. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to cover the container to retain moisture.
Shelf Life
When stored properly, the chicken and veggies will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator and 2-3 months in the freezer. However, it’s best to enjoy it fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions
This Chicken and Veggie Skillet with Fresh Herbs is a versatile dish that can be adapted to fit various dietary needs and preferences:
1. Gluten-Free Adjustments
The recipe is naturally gluten-free, but if you serve it with rice or quinoa, make sure to choose gluten-free grains to maintain the dish’s gluten-free status.
2. Low-Carb Alternatives
For those following a low-carb or keto diet, consider replacing the chicken broth with a lower-carb liquid like bone broth or simply water. You can also serve the skillet over a bed of zucchini noodles (zoodles) or cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice.
3. Dairy-Free Version
This dish is naturally dairy-free. However, if you would like to add a creamy texture to the dish, you can stir in some coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free, creamy version.
4. Vegan Version
To make this dish vegan, replace the chicken with a plant-based protein like tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas. You can also substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth to keep it entirely plant-based.
FAQs About The Recipe
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them beforehand and pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
What other vegetables can I add to this skillet?
You can add a variety of vegetables such as spinach, green beans, mushrooms, or asparagus. Feel free to experiment with whatever you have on hand!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is great for meal prep! You can cook it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat gently when ready to serve.
How can I make the dish spicier?
If you like heat, consider adding red pepper flakes, a chopped jalapeño, or a dash of cayenne pepper while sautéing the vegetables.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
Chicken and Veggie Skillet with Fresh Herbs is a healthy, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a wholesome meal that everyone will enjoy. With simple ingredient swaps and the option to customize the recipe to fit your dietary needs, this skillet meal is both versatile and delicious. Give this recipe a try, and it might just become a staple in your weekly meal rotation!
By following this guide, you’ll create a satisfying and nutritious Chicken and Veggie Skillet with Fresh Herbs that’s bound to impress. Enjoy it as a quick and healthy dinner or prepare it in advance for your meal prep needs!