Name: Loaded Chicken and Veggie Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color); 1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Loaded Chicken and Veggie Skillet is a delightful one-pan dish that perfectly merges flavor and nutrition. Juicy chicken, vibrant veggies, and a sprinkle of Parmesan come together in a beautiful medley that is not only tasty but also easy to prepare. This skillet meal is ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re looking to impress dinner guests without a lot of fuss.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 350
Protein: 35 grams
Carbohydrates: 12 grams
Fat: 18 grams
Fiber: 3 grams
Sugar: 4 grams
Sodium: 600 mg

Why Make This Loaded Chicken and Veggie Skillet

This Loaded Chicken and Veggie Skillet deserves a spot on your dinner table for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, with a total cooking time of just 30 minutes. Second, it’s a versatile dish packed with nutrition; you can easily swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables or use what’s left in your fridge. Finally, this recipe brings a burst of flavors to your palates, thanks to the Italian seasoning and melty Parmesan cheese, making every bite enjoyable.

How to Make Loaded Chicken and Veggie Skillet

Ingredients:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is hot enough so that when you add the chicken, it sizzles.

Step 2: Cooking the Chicken

Add the diced chicken to the skillet along with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken turns a beautiful golden brown and is cooked through.

Step 3: Adding Veggies

Next, toss in the chopped bell pepper, sliced zucchini, and broccoli florets. Stir and sauté for another 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender and nicely caramelized, which enhances their natural sweetness.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

Stir in the minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes. Let them cook together for an additional 2–3 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices. Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, gently tossing everything to melt the cheese throughout the dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving warm.

How to Serve Loaded Chicken and Veggie Skillet

This dish serves beautifully on a dinner plate as a standalone meal. Pair it with crusty bread or a light side salad for a complete dining experience. It’s also wonderful served over rice or cooked quinoa if you desire extra carbs.

How to Store Loaded Chicken and Veggie Skillet

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moistness.

Expert Tips for Perfect Loaded Chicken and Veggie Skillet

Chicken: Use chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier cut.
Veggie Swaps: Feel free to substitute vegetables based on what you have on hand—carrots, spinach, or asparagus work great too!
Spice Level: For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes when cooking the chicken.
Cheese Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of Parmesan, other cheeses like mozzarella or feta can also be delicious.

Delicious Variations

Mediterranean Style: Add olives and feta cheese for a Mediterranean flair.
Spicy Southwest: Mix in some corn, black beans, and taco seasoning for a Southwest twist.
Asian Influence: Use soy sauce and sesame oil, and swap out the cheese for sesame seeds to give it an Asian vibe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, just be sure to thaw it fully before cooking for even cooking.
Is this recipe gluten-free? Absolutely! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How can I make this vegetarian? Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and boost the veggie count.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? Yes, you can chop the vegetables and chicken ahead of time to speed up the cooking process.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers? The skillet is the best way, but you can use a microwave; just be careful not to overheat.

Conclusion

This Loaded Chicken and Veggie Skillet is not just a meal; it’s a quick, nutritious, and delicious solution for your busy days. With the ease of preparation and the fun of customizing it to your taste, this dish will soon become a favorite in your household. Gather your ingredients and get cooking—you won’t regret trying this colorful dish! Enjoy the delightful aromas and flavors that will fill your kitchen and make mealtime a pleasure.