For those busy evenings when you need a wholesome and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen, this One Pan Italian Chicken Skillet is the perfect solution. Bursting with vibrant vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus, alongside tender chicken, this dish offers a delicious and nutritious meal packed with Italian flavors. The best part? This is the ideal recipe for a quick, healthy dinner that doesn’t skimp on taste. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of chicken breast, diced into bite-sized chunks
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (or avocado oil, or unrefined coconut oil)
- 4 fresh garlic cloves, minced
- 8 oz fresh button mushrooms, sliced
- 2 red bell peppers, chopped
- 1 bunch asparagus, ends trimmed and cut in halves
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- 1 tablespoon dry Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons high-quality balsamic vinegar
- Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Begin by seasoning the bite-sized chicken pieces with sea salt, black pepper, and half of the dry Italian seasoning. This will help infuse the chicken with bold flavors from the start.
- Heat the Oil and Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, warm the extra virgin olive oil (or your choice of oil) over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces. Cook for approximately 5-6 minutes, turning them occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until it releases its aroma. Next, toss in the sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, asparagus, and zucchini. Stir well and cook the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, or until they begin to soften but still have a bit of crispness. Sprinkle the remaining Italian seasoning over the vegetables and continue to sauté.
- Add the Balsamic Vinegar: Once the vegetables are nearly cooked, return the chicken to the skillet. Drizzle the high-quality balsamic vinegar over the chicken and vegetables, stirring everything to combine. Allow the dish to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld together and the balsamic vinegar slightly caramelize.
- Season and Serve: Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with more sea salt and black pepper, if needed. Serve the One Pan Italian Chicken Skillet hot, either on its own or over a bed of quinoa, rice, or pasta for a more filling meal.
Conclusion:
This One Pan Italian Chicken Skillet is a complete meal that’s bursting with flavor, color, and nutrition. With tender chicken, a medley of fresh vegetables, and a hint of balsamic tang, it’s the perfect quick and easy dish for any night of the week. Plus, with minimal cleanup, it’s a stress-free way to enjoy a home-cooked meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. Whether you’re feeding the family or just yourself, this skillet meal is sure to impress!