Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet: Easy Low Calorie Chicken Meal for Dinner

By: GORDON ALEX | Published onFebruary 3, 2026

Healthy chicken and vegetables skillet dinner

Experience the Delight of a Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet

There’s something incredibly satisfying about whipping up a tasty meal in just one skillet. The Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is a vibrant and nutritious dish that brings together succulent chicken pieces and a colorful array of vegetables, all infused with aromatic herbs and spices. I love making this recipe when I want a wholesome dinner without the fuss. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for a busy weeknight yet impressive enough for guests. Whether you’re looking to eat healthier or simply want something delicious, this dish hits all the right notes.

Reasons to Try It

You might be wondering why you should make this particular dish. Here’s the scoop: it’s not only quick and easy but also packed with nutrition. Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts ensures you get a lean protein source, while the fresh vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals. It’s a delightful way to incorporate more veggies into your diet without sacrificing flavor.

“This Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet is now a staple in my home. The entire family loves it, and it makes meal prep so much easier!” – Happy Home Cook

Perfect for a weeknight dinner when time is tight, it can also be a crowd-pleaser at your weekend gatherings. You don’t need an endless list of ingredients or complicated techniques. Just one skillet, a medley of flavors, and you’re all set!

Preparing Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet

Ready to get started? The process of making this dish is straightforward and flows beautifully, making it accessible even for novice cooks. You’ll sear the chicken first, allowing it to brown and seal in moisture, then sauté your vegetables to keep them bright and crisp. The final step? Combining everything and adding a splash of flavor with chicken broth (or your choice of liquid). It’s simple yet rewarding!

What You’ll Need

To create this colorful Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet, gather the following ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon dried rosemary
½ teaspoon paprika
¼ to ½ teaspoon chili powder
1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
3 cups bite-size broccoli florets
1 zucchini, thinly sliced and cut into half-moons
1 small yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch chunks
1 small red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch chunks
¼ cup low sodium chicken broth (or dry white wine, apple juice, or water)
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Feel free to customize this with your favorite veggies or protein alternatives to suit dietary preferences!

Step-by-step Instructions

Start by cutting the chicken into 1-inch pieces and seasoning them with salt and pepper. Set it aside for now.
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, paprika, and chili powder. Sprinkle half of this mixture over the chicken.
Drizzle ½ tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken and toss it to coat evenly.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate, cover, and set aside.
Return the skillet to the heat, adding the remaining olive oil. Sauté the onions for about 2 minutes, then add the broccoli, zucchini, and bell peppers. If needed, a bit more oil can be added. Season with the remaining spice mix, salt, and pepper, and cook for 4 to 6 minutes while stirring occasionally until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to combine.
Finally, return the cooked chicken along with its juices to the skillet, mixing it well. Allow everything to cook together for another minute.
Remove from heat, taste, and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Plating this Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet beautifully elevates a simple meal into an impressive feast. Serve it hot out of the skillet for a family-style experience, or plate it up individually with a sprinkle of parsley for a more refined touch. Pair it with a side of quinoa or brown rice to soak up the delicious juices, or enjoy it over a bed of leafy greens for a light, refreshing option.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing your delicious leftovers is easy. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will remain fresh for 3 to 4 days. If you’re looking to preserve it longer, this dish can also be frozen. Just make sure it cools completely before transferring it into a freezer-safe container. To reheat, use the microwave or a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Helpful Cooking Tips

Here are some extra tips to enhance your cooking experience:

Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken; this ensures that it sears well instead of steaming.
Feel free to use any combination of vegetables on hand; asparagus, carrots, or snap peas all work wonderfully.
If you love a kick, don’t hesitate to add more chili powder or even a splash of hot sauce when serving.

Creative Twists

Let your creativity shine! Spice it up with a splash of soy sauce or teriyaki for an Asian twist. Want to add a creamy texture? Stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of coconut milk just before serving. If you’re hosting vegan guests, swap the chicken for firm tofu or chickpeas for a hearty yet equally nutritious meal.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare Healthy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet?

Preparation and cooking combined take about 30 to 40 minutes, making it an ideal choice for weeknight meals.

Can I use different proteins for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with turkey, shrimp, or plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh.

What vegetables work best in this dish?

While broccoli, zucchini, and bell peppers are the stars here, you can mix it up with any vegetables like carrots, asparagus, or green beans.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it stores well in the refrigerator and keeps its flavor great, making it perfect for meal prepping for the week.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth or wine.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

This dish is already dairy-free! Just ensure that any sides you serve alongside are also dairy-free.

What ingredient can I substitute for chicken broth?

You can use dry white wine, vegetable broth, or even apple juice as a flavorful alternative.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be considered safe to eat. Using a meat thermometer can help check this accurately.