This Easy Italian Chicken and Veggie Skillet is a lively dish that brings fun to your dinner table! Juicy chicken, bright veggies, and tasty Italian herbs come together in one pan.
It’s fast and simple to make, just toss everything in, stir, and relax while it cooks. I love serving it over rice or pasta to soak up all that delicious sauce—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work great here. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use turkey. For a vegetarian twist, try using tofu or chickpeas instead!
Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, and yellow squash add color and nutrition. If those aren’t available, you can use any seasonal veggies like broccoli, spinach, or carrots. Frozen veggies are also a good option!
Herbs and Spices: Italian seasoning gives that classic flavor. If you don’t have it, mix oregano, basil, and thyme for a similar taste. You can also adjust the crushed red pepper flakes based on your spice preference!
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a burst of freshness. In their absence, you could use canned diced tomatoes. Just drain them first to avoid too much liquid in the dish.
Chicken Broth: Using low-sodium chicken broth keeps it flavorful and healthy. If you need to make it vegan, vegetable broth or water will work just fine.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken without drying it out can be tricky. Here are some tips:
- Cut the chicken into evenly-sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking.
- Don’t rush! Cook the chicken on medium-high heat to get a nice sear without burning.
- Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
By following these simple steps, you’ll have juicy, flavorful chicken every time.
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Veggies?
Sautéing is a quick way to cook vegetables while keeping them crisp. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet first—this helps vegetables start cooking immediately.
- Add oil but don’t overcrowd the pan. You want the veggies to sauté, not steam!
- Stir occasionally, but let them sit for a minute to get a nice color.
This method locks in flavor and ensures your veggies stay fresh and vibrant in the dish!
Easy Italian Chicken and Veggie Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 medium yellow squash, sliced into half-moons
- 1 small red onion, sliced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Italian Chicken and Veggie Skillet will take about 10-15 minutes of prep time and approximately 15-20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’re looking at around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Quick and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Skillet:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot to give the chicken a good sear.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the hot skillet. Season them with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning, oregano, and basil. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is nicely browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed. Toss in the sliced red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini, yellow squash, and red onion. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-6 minutes, until they begin to soften but still retain some crunch.
4. Add Garlic and Seasoning:
Now, add the minced garlic, and the remaining Italian seasoning, oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you want a little kick). Stir everything well and let it cook for an additional minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.
5. Combine Chicken and Tomatoes:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the halved cherry tomatoes. Pour in the chicken broth for extra flavor.
6. Let It Simmer:
Stir everything together, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes. This will help the tomatoes soften and the flavors meld beautifully.
7. Final Touches:
Remove the lid, taste your dish, and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Don’t be shy—taste testing is key!
8. Serve It Up:
Garnish your creation with fresh chopped basil or parsley, and sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top if desired. This dish can be enjoyed on its own or served over your favorite pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Enjoy this colorful, healthy one-pan meal that’s bursting with delicious Italian flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker method. Always ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking!
What Can I Substitute for the Chicken?
If you’re looking for a meatless option, tofu or chickpeas works wonderfully! Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly. For a different protein, turkey or shrimp are great alternatives, but they may require a shorter cooking time compared to chicken.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use either the microwave or warm it gently in a skillet over low heat. A splash of broth or water can help revive the dish’s freshness while reheating!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! You can mix in your favorite veggies. Broccoli, spinach, mushrooms, or even green beans can be great additions. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you choose to keep everything perfectly cooked!
