easy and delicious one skillet dinner

An easy and delicious one-skillet dinner is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet flavorful. This recipe for a “Skillet Chicken and Vegetables” combines tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and aromatic herbs, all cooked in one pan for minimal cleanup.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 200 grams cherry tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine for extra flavor)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment:

• Large skillet with a lid
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and black pepper.
• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the chicken to the skillet and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

• In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the onion and garlic until they start to soften, about 2 minutes.
• Add the bell peppers and zucchini to the skillet, cooking until they are just beginning to soften, about 5 minutes.
• Stir in the cherry tomatoes and dried herbs, cooking for another 2 minutes.

3. Simmer the Chicken and Vegetables:

• Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the vegetables.
• Pour the chicken broth (or white wine) over the skillet contents, bringing the liquid to a simmer.
• Cover the skillet with a lid, lower the heat, and let everything simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (reaching an internal temperature of 165°F) and the vegetables are tender.

4. Garnish and Serve:

• Once the chicken and vegetables are cooked, remove from heat.
• Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

• This dish is wonderfully complete on its own, but you can serve it over cooked rice, quinoa, or even pasta to make it heartier.
• A simple side salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice would complement the meal perfectly, adding a fresh and crisp element.

Tips for the Best One-Skillet Meal:

• Proper Searing: Make sure to sear the chicken well at the beginning. This adds a layer of flavor due to the caramelization of the surface.
• Simmering Time: Adjust the simmering time based on the size and thickness of the chicken breasts to avoid overcooking.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap out any of the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Broccoli, spinach, or asparagus would also work well in this recipe.

This one-skillet chicken and vegetables dish is not only a lifesaver on a hectic day but also a healthy and delightful dinner option that keeps your kitchen clean and your family satisfied.