Ground Chicken and Veggie Skillet Recipe
If you’re in the mood for something wholesome yet exciting, the Ground Chicken and Veggie Skillet is about to become your new weeknight hero. It’s colorful, loaded with vibrant veggies, and packed with lean protein, coming together in a single pan with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Imagine juicy bites of ground chicken mingled with sweet bell peppers, tender zucchini, and burst cherry tomatoes, all kissed with garlic and a bright pop of lemon or balsamic at the end. The ultimate blend of simplicity, nutrition, and savory comfort, this dish truly makes healthy eating feel indulgent.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Ground Chicken and Veggie Skillet keeps things delightfully simple while letting each ingredient shine. Every component was chosen to bring something special to the skillet—whether it’s bold flavor, texture, or a splash of color that brightens up your plate. Here’s what you’ll need and why you need it:
- Ground chicken: Lean, juicy, and protein-packed, ground chicken forms the hearty base of this satisfying skillet.
- Olive oil: A quick sizzle in olive oil adds richness and helps draw out the flavors of the veggies and aromatics.
- Onion (diced): The humble onion brings a savory-sweet backdrop that underpins the whole skillet.
- Garlic (minced): Just a couple of cloves fragrantly boost the flavor, making each bite aromatic and mouthwatering.
- Red bell pepper (diced): For crunch and a subtle hint of sweetness that brightens the whole dish.
- Zucchini (chopped): Zucchini adds a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a gentle, earthy flavor that does wonders here.
- Cherry tomatoes (halved): These little jewels burst with sweetness and a juicy pop that lightens each savory forkful.
- Salt: Just the right amount of salt to pull all the flavors together without overpowering the fresh veggies.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that highlights the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- Smoked paprika: This spice brings a warm, smoky depth that makes the skillet taste truly special.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For anyone who loves a little kick, this brings gentle heat without stealing the show.
- Soy sauce or coconut aminos: Adds savory umami and a touch of saltiness for a deeper, more complex flavor.
- Fresh lemon juice or balsamic vinegar: A splash at the end wakes up all the other flavors and adds brightness.
- Chopped parsley or basil (optional garnish): A fresh, vibrant finishing touch that makes everything look and taste even better.
How to Make Ground Chicken and Veggie Skillet
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in your diced onion and minced garlic. These two always set the stage, infusing the oil with savory depth and making your kitchen smell amazing within minutes. Let them soften and get fragrant—usually just 2 or 3 minutes is all you need. This quick step is the secret to layering rich flavor into your Ground Chicken and Veggie Skillet right from the start.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Chicken
Slide the ground chicken into your aromatic base and start breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. You want those little golden bits on the edges; that’s where the flavor lives! Keep stirring so the chicken cooks evenly and no pink remains—this should take about 6 to 8 minutes. Let it soak up all those garlicky, oniony juices to make every bite tender and savory.
Step 3: Add the Veggies
Now it’s time to brighten up the skillet with color and crunch. Stir in the diced red bell pepper, chopped zucchini, and halved cherry tomatoes. Sprinkle in your salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and if you’re feeling adventurous, a little crushed red pepper. Give everything a gentle toss and let it cook for another 5–7 minutes, stirring here and there, until the vegetables reach that perfect point—tender, but still vibrant and full of personality.
Step 4: Finish With Flavor
With the skillet bubbling, pour in the soy sauce (or coconut aminos) and a fresh squeeze of lemon juice or splash of balsamic vinegar. Stir to coat everything, and let it all mingle for about a minute longer. This finishing touch lifts every flavor, adding tang and umami, making your Ground Chicken and Veggie Skillet irresistibly lively and fresh. Pull the skillet off the heat and get ready to serve!
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Top off your skillet with a generous sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil. Not only does this finish it with a burst of color, but those fresh herbs give a bright, peppery note that really sets the dish apart. Dish up while it’s sizzling hot, and savor the combination of textures and flavors coming together in every forkful.
How to Serve Ground Chicken and Veggie Skillet
Garnishes
A simple shower of freshly chopped parsley or basil is all you need for a finish that looks as fresh as it tastes. If you want to turn up the flavors, add an extra squeeze of lemon, a pinch more smoked paprika, or even a dusting of parmesan for a savory twist. These little extras really make your Ground Chicken and Veggie Skillet feel restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
This skillet is plenty hearty on its own, but it pairs beautifully with fluffy steamed rice, quinoa, or warm crusty bread to soak up every last drop of savory sauce. For a low-carb option, serve it over cauliflower rice or stuffed into crisp lettuce wraps. Simple sides like a green salad or roasted potatoes also complement the flavors in this vibrant dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your Ground Chicken and Veggie Skillet to the next level by piling it into bell pepper halves or zucchini boats and baking them for a fun, hand-held meal. Or, scoop it onto baked sweet potatoes for a sweet-and-savory combo. Even folding leftovers inside a tortilla for a speedy wrap or piling them onto toast for brunch makes this dish feel brand new, every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, let your Ground Chicken and Veggie Skillet cool, then transfer it to airtight containers. It should last well in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors mellow and blend as it sits, so don’t be surprised if it tastes even better the next day!
Freezing
For longer storage, this skillet freezes like a dream. Pack cooled portions into freezer-safe bags or containers and store for up to three months. For best results, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, so the veggies retain their best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, simply pop the leftovers into a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if things look a bit dry. You can also use the microwave—just cover loosely and heat in short bursts, stirring in between. Either way, you’ll be back to a steaming, flavorful meal in minutes.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or beef instead of chicken?
Absolutely! The Ground Chicken and Veggie Skillet is super flexible. Swap in ground turkey for an equally lean option, or ground beef if you want a richer flavor. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as fat content can affect how quickly the meat browns.
Is this recipe spicy?
Not by default! The red pepper flakes are optional, so you can make it as mild or as fiery as you like. Add more if you enjoy a gentle burn, or skip them altogether for a family-friendly dish.
Can I add other vegetables?
For sure. Feel free to toss in mushrooms, spinach, or even frozen peas—this skillet is your playground. Just add greens right at the end so they don’t overcook, and let the rest mingle with the chicken and spices as directed.
Is it gluten-free?
Yes, the Ground Chicken and Veggie Skillet is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos. Double-check any store-bought condiments just to be safe.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers are incredibly versatile. Reheat as-is, stuff into wraps or pita pockets for easy lunches, or pile onto grains like rice or farro for a heartier meal. You can even serve cold as a protein-packed salad topping.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dish that’s quick to make, full of flavor, and endlessly adaptable, you owe it to yourself to try this Ground Chicken and Veggie Skillet. It’s the kind of recipe that earns a spot in your regular dinner rotation after the very first bite—so grab your skillet, gather your favorite veggies, and let this colorful meal bring a little extra joy to your table tonight!
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Ground Chicken and Veggie Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Ground Chicken and Veggie Skillet is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight. Packed with protein and colorful vegetables, this dish is easy to customize and makes for a satisfying dinner option.
Ingredients
Ground Chicken:
1 pound ground chicken
Olive Oil:
1 tablespoon
Onion:
1 small, diced
Garlic:
2 cloves, minced
Red Bell Pepper:
1, diced
Zucchini:
1, chopped
Cherry Tomatoes:
1 cup, halved
Salt:
1/2 teaspoon
Black Pepper:
1/2 teaspoon
Smoked Paprika:
1/2 teaspoon
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional):
1/4 teaspoon
Soy Sauce or Coconut Aminos:
1 tablespoon
Fresh Lemon Juice or Balsamic Vinegar:
1 tablespoon
Parsley or Basil for garnish (optional):
Chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
- Cook chicken: Add ground chicken and cook until no longer pink.
- Add veggies: Stir in bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
- Finish: Mix in soy sauce and lemon juice or vinegar. Garnish with herbs before serving.
Notes
- This recipe is versatile—add spinach, mushrooms, or frozen peas to boost nutrition.
- Make it spicy with more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
