Chicken and Vegetables Skillet Easy and Tasty Meal

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

1 shares

• Pinterest1

Looking for a quick, tasty meal? This Chicken and Vegetables Skillet recipe is your answer! Packed with juicy chicken and colorful veggies, it offers both flavor and nutrition. You’ll discover easy step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and fun variations to suit your taste. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish will impress. Let’s get cooking and make dinner a delight!

Why I Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy: This one-pan dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
2. Colorful and Nutritious: Loaded with vibrant veggies, this recipe not only looks great but is also packed with essential nutrients.
3. Flavorful Spices: The combination of smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder gives this dish a delightful kick that everyone will love.
4. Versatile Serving Options: Serve it straight from the skillet for a rustic feel or plate it for a more polished presentation.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

– 1 cup assorted bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), thinly sliced

– 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons

– 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– 1 teaspoon ground cumin

– 1 teaspoon chili powder

– Salt and black pepper to taste

– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

– 1 ripe avocado, diced (for serving)

– Lime wedges (for serving)

Optional Ingredients

– Substitutions for Chicken: You can use turkey or tofu for a lighter option.

– Alternative Veggies: Try broccoli, carrots, or snap peas for a different twist.

– Extras for Serving: Add sour cream, cheese, or hot sauce to spice it up.

Creating this Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is easy and fun. The main ingredients shine with bright colors and flavors. Each item plays an important role. The chicken adds protein, while the veggies give great taste and nutrition. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have at home. This dish is all about flexibility.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

– Heat the Oil: Start by pouring one tablespoon of olive oil into a large skillet. Turn the heat to medium. Wait until the oil shimmers. This means it is hot enough.

– Cook the Chicken: Add two boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces. Season the chicken with smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 7-8 minutes. Stir the chicken often until it is browned and fully cooked.

Cooking Instructions

– Add Garlic: After the chicken is ready, add two minced garlic cloves. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes. You want the garlic to smell great but not burn.

– Incorporate Vegetables: Next, toss in 1 cup of assorted bell peppers, a medium zucchini, and a medium red onion. Stir-fry all these colorful veggies with the chicken. Cook for about 5-6 minutes. The veggies should be tender-crisp and bright.

– Mix in Black Beans: Now, fold in one can of rinsed and drained black beans. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. This helps everything heat through and blend well.

– Taste and Adjust: Before you serve, taste the mix. If it needs more flavor, add a bit more salt, pepper, or spices. When it tastes great, remove the skillet from the heat.

Serving Suggestions

– Presentation Tips: For a cozy feel, serve directly from the skillet. If you prefer plating, spoon the mixture onto plates. Top each serving with diced avocado and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

– How to Serve: Serve with lime wedges on the side. This adds a zesty touch to each bite. Enjoy your vibrant and tasty chicken and veggie dish!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Advice

– Best Techniques for Tender Chicken: Start with even-sized chicken pieces for even cooking. Use medium heat to avoid drying out the chicken. Cook until it’s golden brown, about 7-8 minutes.

– How to Achieve Perfectly Cooked Vegetables: Cut vegetables into uniform pieces. This ensures they cook at the same rate. Stir-fry them quickly over high heat to keep them crisp and colorful.

Flavor Enhancements

– Spice Adjustments: Feel free to tweak the spices. If you like heat, add more chili powder. For a smoky taste, increase the smoked paprika.

– Adding Fresh Ingredients: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro right before serving. It adds a burst of flavor. You can also squeeze fresh lime juice for zing.

Time-Saving Tips

– Prepping Ingredients Ahead: Chop all vegetables and chicken before cooking. Store them in the fridge to save time. This makes cooking quick and fun.

– Quick Cooking Techniques: Use one pan for everything. This saves time on cleanup. Stir-fry and mix ingredients quickly to keep them fresh and vibrant.

Variations

Different Cuisine Styles

Mexican-Inspired Additions

For a Mexican twist, add corn and cilantro. You could also include diced jalapeños for heat. A squeeze of lime brightens the flavors and adds freshness. Serve with warm tortillas for a fun meal.

Mediterranean Twist

For a Mediterranean flair, switch bell peppers for eggplant and add olives. Use herbs like oregano and thyme for seasoning. A drizzle of feta cheese before serving adds a nice touch. Serve with pita bread for a complete meal.

Dietary Adjustments

Keto-Friendly Modifications

To make this dish keto-friendly, skip the black beans. Use more low-carb vegetables like spinach or broccoli. You can also replace the avocado with a creamy dressing made from Greek yogurt.

Vegetarian or Vegan Options

For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with firm tofu or tempeh. Cook the tofu until golden for texture. For vegan, omit the cheese and use plant-based garnishes instead of sour cream.

Serving Variations

Burrito Bowl Inspiration

Create a burrito bowl by layering the chicken and veggies over rice or cauliflower rice. Top with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole. This makes a filling and delicious meal!

Salad or Wrap Ideas

You can serve this dish as a salad. Just add mixed greens and drizzle with your favorite dressing. For a wrap, use a tortilla to hold the chicken and veggies. Add fresh greens for crunch and flavor.

Storage Info

Short-Term Storage

Refrigeration Tips

After you enjoy your Chicken and Vegetables Skillet, let it cool down. Store it in an airtight container. This keeps moisture in and helps it stay fresh. Place the container in your fridge.

Keeping Ingredients Fresh

To keep your dish fresh, use a container that seals tightly. This helps keep out air and prevents spoilage. Use it within three to four days for the best taste.

Long-Term Storage

Freezing the Dish

If you want to save it for later, freezing is a great option. Allow the dish to cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. This helps avoid freezer burn.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Heat it in a skillet over medium heat until hot. Stir often to ensure even heating. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between.

Shelf Life

How Long It Lasts in the Fridge

In the fridge, the Chicken and Vegetables Skillet lasts about three to four days. If you freeze it, it can last up to three months. Just remember to label your container with the date!

Signs of Spoilage

Check for changes in smell or color. If it smells sour or looks off, it’s best to toss it. Make sure to avoid any mold growth. Always trust your senses when it comes to food safety!

FAQs

Common Questions

How do I know when chicken is fully cooked?

You can check if chicken is done by using a meat thermometer. The inside should reach 165°F (75°C). If you cut it, the juices should run clear, not pink. Always ensure to check the thickest part of the chicken to be safe. This way, you avoid any risk of undercooking.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Cook it, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about three days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. This makes it a great option for meal prep.

Nutritional Information

Caloric Content per Serving

Each serving of this Chicken and Vegetables Skillet has about 400 calories. This number can change based on how much oil or other ingredients you use.

Dietary Benefits of Ingredients

This dish is packed with protein from chicken and fiber from black beans and veggies. Bell peppers and zucchini provide essential vitamins. Using olive oil adds healthy fats. Overall, it’s a wholesome meal that supports a balanced diet.

Cooking Equipment

Best Skillet Options

A large non-stick skillet works best for this recipe. It helps prevent sticking and makes cleaning easier. If you have cast iron, that’s perfect too. It retains heat well and gives a nice sear to the chicken.

Recommended Utensils for Cooking and Serving

You will need a spatula for stirring, a meat thermometer for checking chicken, and a knife for cutting veggies. For serving, you can use a big spoon or even serve straight from the skillet for a fun touch.

This blog post covered how to create a tasty dish using chicken, veggies, and spices. I shared tips for cooking, storage, and variations to suit your taste. With these insights, you can cook confidently and enjoy your meals more. Remember, experimenting in the kitchen can lead to great flavors. Use these ideas to make meals fun and delicious. Happy cookin

One-Pan Fiesta Chicken & Veggies

A vibrant and flavorful one-pan dish featuring chicken, colorful vegetables, and spices.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 4

Ingredients

  

• 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup assorted bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), thinly sliced
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
• 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• to taste salt and black pepper
• for garnish fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• for serving lime wedges

Instructions

 

• In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium flame until shimmering.
• Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet, seasoning them generously with smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Sauté until the chicken is nicely browned and fully cooked, which should take about 7-8 minutes.
• Once the chicken is cooked through, add the minced garlic to the skillet, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt.
• Toss in the sliced bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion. Stir-fry these colorful vegetables with the chicken, cooking for about 5-6 minutes, or until they're tender-crisp and vibrant.
• Fold the rinsed black beans into the skillet and continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is heated through and well combined.
• Before serving, taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to your liking. Remove the skillet from heat.
• Spoon the colorful chicken and veggie mixture onto plates or serve it straight from the skillet. Top each serving with diced avocado, a generous sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and lime wedges on the side for an extra zing.

Notes

For a rustic and inviting feel, serve directly from the skillet. Garnish with cilantro and lime for added flavor.

Keyword chicken, fiesta, one-pan, vegetables

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

1 shares

• Pinterest1