We all have those nights when the thought of cooking feels like a monumental task, right? That’s where my 20 minute one pan chicken and veggies for busy nights comes to the rescue! This quick and easy recipe is not just about saving time; it’s all about enjoying a delicious, nutritious meal without the fuss of multiple pots and pans. Picture this: tender, juicy chicken cooked to perfection, vibrant veggies that give you that satisfying crunch, and all of it coming together in one pan! Trust me, it’s an absolute game-changer for anyone juggling a hectic schedule. You’ll be amazed at how a simple meal can bring so much comfort and flavor in such a short time. Let’s dive into this scrumptious dish that will quickly become a weeknight favorite!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (I love using bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots for a colorful mix!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for that perfect sauté)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (because who doesn’t love garlic?)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (it adds a nice depth of flavor!)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy with seasoning!)
How to Prepare Instructions
- First, grab a large pan and heat the olive oil over medium heat. You want it nice and hot for that perfect sear on the chicken!
- Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the diced chicken. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s no longer pink inside.
- Now it’s time to add in those vibrant mixed vegetables! Stir them into the pan along with the garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
- Cook everything together for an additional 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want those veggies to become tender but still have a nice crunch to them.
- When everything is cooked to perfection, remove the pan from heat and serve hot. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this meal comes together!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—ready in just 20 minutes!
- All cooked in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
- Healthy ingredients that keep you feeling great without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatile recipe—swap in your favorite veggies or proteins for endless variations!
- Perfect for meal prep; you can make it ahead and enjoy it throughout the week.
- Kid-friendly and satisfying for hungry bellies after a long day.
Tips for Success
To ensure your 20 minute one pan chicken and veggies for busy nights turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite tips! First, make sure your chicken is diced evenly so it cooks at the same rate. No one likes a chunky piece of chicken when you’re in a rush! Always check that it’s cooked through—using a meat thermometer is a great way to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
When it comes to veggies, feel free to get creative! You can easily substitute with whatever you have on hand, like zucchini, snap peas, or even frozen mixed veggies. Just remember that different veggies will have varying cook times, so add them accordingly. Also, if you’re feeling adventurous, a splash of soy sauce or a dash of your favorite seasoning can elevate the flavors! Trust me, these little tweaks can make a world of difference.
Variations
If you’re looking to switch things up with your 20 minute one pan chicken and veggies for busy nights, there are so many fun variations to try! For a twist on protein, swap out the chicken for shrimp or cubed tofu for a vegetarian option. You can also experiment with different vegetables; think asparagus, green beans, or even sweet potatoes for a heartier meal. Feeling spicy? Toss in some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick! The best part is you can mix and match to suit your taste buds or whatever you have in the fridge!
Nutritional Information Section
Curious about what you’re getting with this 20 minute one pan chicken and veggies for busy nights? Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving, so you can feel great about what you’re eating!
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fiber: 4g
Keep in mind, these values are just estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But rest assured, you’re fueling your body with a wholesome meal that’s packed with nutrients!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables work great in this 20 minute one pan chicken and veggies for busy nights. Just toss them in directly from the freezer and give them a little extra time to cook until they’re heated through.
What if I don’t have garlic powder?
No worries! If you don’t have garlic powder on hand, you can use fresh minced garlic instead. Just sauté it in the olive oil for a minute before adding the chicken; it’ll give your dish a wonderful aroma!
How can I store leftovers?
To store leftovers, simply place them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool before sealing it up to keep everything fresh.
Can I reheat this dish?
Yes, you can! Just reheat it on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, or pop it in the microwave for a quick warm-up. It’s just as delicious the next day!
What other proteins can I use?
You can switch things up by using turkey, beef strips, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist! Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked perfectly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers from your 20 minute one pan chicken and veggies for busy nights is super simple! Just let the dish cool down a bit, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, so you can enjoy those delicious flavors again!
When it comes to reheating, you have a couple of options. For the best results, warm it up on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If you’re in a hurry, a quick zap in the microwave will do the trick too—just make sure to cover it to prevent splatters and heat evenly. Enjoy your meal again without any fuss!
For more quick and easy recipes, check out this one-pan lemon garlic chicken and vegetables recipe or this creamy garlic pasta recipe for more delicious ideas!
Print
20 Minute One Pan Chicken and Veggies for Busy Nights
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Quick and easy one pan meal featuring chicken and vegetables.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken and cook until browned.
- Add mixed vegetables and seasonings.
- Stir and cook for another 10 minutes until veggies are tender.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- This meal is great for meal prep.
- Substitute any vegetables you prefer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: 20 minute one pan chicken and veggies for busy nights
