Easy Skillet Chicken Primavera is a colorful and tasty dish packed with fresh veggies and tender chicken. It’s cooked all in one pan, making clean-up a breeze!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a quick dinner that looks like it belongs in a restaurant? I pair it with some pasta, and it’s a winner at my dinner table every time! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier bite. Tofu works great for a vegetarian version, just ensure to season it well.
Vegetables: The mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and green beans is colorful and tasty. Feel free to swap any of these for seasonal veggies like asparagus or broccoli. Frozen mixed vegetables can also save you time.
Pasta: I like spaghetti or linguine, but any pasta works. Try whole wheat or gluten-free options if that’s your preference! Even zoodles (zucchini noodles) can be a fun low-carb substitute.
Parmesan Cheese: Fresh Parmesan gives a rich flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, you could try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or even vegan cheese shreds.
Broth or Wine: I usually use chicken broth, but vegetable broth is great for a vegetarian dish. White wine adds a depth of flavor too. If you don’t have either, plain water works in a pinch, but I recommend adding a bit of seasoning.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Getting your chicken just right is key to a great primavera! Here are some steps to ensure it cooks beautifully:
- Slice the chicken evenly. This helps it cook at the same rate and stay tender.
- Preheat your skillet. A hot pan is essential for a golden sear!
- Cook in batches if needed. Avoid crowding the pan to allow proper browning, which gives added flavor.
- Check for doneness. Chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) internally. A meat thermometer is a great tool to have!
Following these tips ensures your chicken stays juicy and flavorful, making your Primavera dish a hit!
Easy Skillet Chicken Primavera
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into medallions
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (red and yellow)
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen peas
- 1 small zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or white wine)
- 6 ounces cooked spaghetti or linguine pasta
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, totaling about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and satisfying option for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the sliced chicken breasts with salt and black pepper to enhance their flavor. This will give your dish a good base right from the start!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Then, sauté the minced garlic and onions for about 2 minutes, just until they’re fragrant and translucent. This step will fill your kitchen with a wonderful aroma!
4. Add the Vegetables:
Next, add the diced yellow bell pepper, sliced mushrooms, green beans, zucchini rounds, peas, and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir occasionally and cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften—the more colorful, the better!
5. Incorporate the Seasoning:
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, then pour in the chicken broth or white wine. Be sure to scrape the bottom of the pan to pick up any tasty bits stuck there. Let the mixture simmer for another 3-4 minutes until the liquid reduces slightly and everything is well combined.
6. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and everything is nice and warm.
7. Add the Pasta:
Now, you can decide whether to mix the cooked pasta directly into the skillet or plate the pasta first and top it with the chicken and vegetable mixture. Both options are delicious!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish with fresh chopped basil leaves and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan if you like. This adds a fresh burst of flavor and looks lovely!
9. Enjoy!
Serve your vibrant and tasty Easy Skillet Chicken Primavera hot. Enjoy a delightful one-pan meal that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate!
This recipe is not only a feast for the eyes with its colorful veggies but also packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a perfect family dinner! 🍽️
What Can I Substitute for Chicken?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier option or try tofu for a vegetarian version. Just make sure to season it well for added flavor!
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables can save you prep time. Just toss them in at the same stage as fresh veggies; they’ll thaw and cook quickly. Keep in mind that frozen veggies might release a little more moisture, so you may need to adjust cooking time slightly.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the pasta with a gluten-free pasta alternative and ensure that the chicken broth or white wine you use is gluten-free as well!
