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A flavorful one-pan dinner combining tender chicken, crisp veggies, and vibrant basil pesto—on the table in just 25 minutes. Perfect for weeknight meals, meal prep, and a healthy yet satisfying bite on busy evenings. #OnePanMeals #HealthyDinner #30MinuteMeals
Why You’ll Love It
One pan, minimal cleanup: Everything cooks together for effortless prep.
Speedy meal: Ready in under 30 minutes, from start to finish.
Balanced nutrition: Lean protein, vibrant veggies, and healthy fats in pesto.
Crowd-pleasing: Bold flavors with a mild profile that’s great for families.
Ultra-flexible: Swap veggies, pesto types, or choose chicken thighs for variation.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
1.5 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, sliced
1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes
1 cup broccoli florets or asparagus—a vibrant green add-in
½ cup pesto sauce (homemade or good-quality store-bought)
¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional—adds nuttiness)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Garnish: fresh basil or parsley, lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions
Prep: Slice all vegetables and chicken into bite-sized pieces.
1. Cook the chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, season lightly, and sauté until golden and cooked through (about 5–7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the vegetables
In the same skillet, add onions, zucchini, bell pepper, broccoli, and tomatoes. Season, and cook until just tender—about 4–5 minutes.
3. Combine with pesto
Return chicken to the skillet. Stir in pesto and Parmesan (if using), tossing gently to coat everything evenly. Warm through for 1–2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Serve
Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve with lemon wedges for brightness.
Quick Highlights & Prep Tips
Use chicken thighs for juicier flavor and budget-friendly protein.
Alternate vegetables such as mushrooms, green beans, or carrots. Cook sturdier veggies first.
Homemade pesto shortcut: Blend basil, garlic, pine nuts (or walnuts), Parmesan, and olive oil—takes 5 minutes.
Leftovers reheat well—add a splash of water or broth to loosen when reheating.
Meal Prep & Storage Tips
Make ahead: Sauté chicken and veggies, refrigerate separately. Reheat with pesto when needed.
Storage: Seal in airtight container—keeps 3–4 days refrigerated.
Freezer-friendly: Flash freeze portions (without fresh herbs), then reheat gently.
Variations to Try
Vegetarian
Substitute tofu cubes or chickpeas for chicken; add spinach or kale for extra greens.
Grain Bowl
Serve over rice, quinoa, or pasta for a more filling meal.
Creamy Twist
Stir in a tablespoon of ricotta or coconut cream for added richness.
Lighten It Up
Use half the olive oil, skip the cheese, and load up on extra veggies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, but drain them well and add toward the end to avoid soggy results.
Is this kid-friendly?
Definitely! The pesto flavors are mild and familiar; serve lemon wedges on the side for those who like a zing.
What if I’m dairy-free?
Use dairy-free pesto (check ingredients) and skip the Parmesan or use nutritional yeast instead.
How spicy is it?
Naturally mild. Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes—use a larger skillet or cook in batches to ensure even cooking.
Nutritional Snapshot (Approximate per Serving)
Calories: ~420 kcal
Protein: ~35 g
Fat: ~22 g (mostly from olive oil and pesto)
Carbohydrates: ~8 g
Fiber & Vitamins: Excellent from mixed veggies and basil
Option to reduce calories by using light pesto or less oil.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with warm crusty bread or dinner rolls for dipping.
Serve alongside a crisp green salad for added freshness.
Top with freshly grated Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon juice for elevated flavor.
Final Thoughts
The Quick Pesto Chicken and Veggie Skillet is a weeknight hero—healthy, quick, comforting, and boldly flavorful. Minimal prep, one pan, and endless meal possibilities make it a must-have for busy cooks. It’s customizable, crowd-pleasing, and deliciously easy.
