Are you tired of slaving away in the kitchen on busy weeknights, trying to whip up a healthy and delicious meal for your family? Look no further! Chicken skillets are the perfect solution for a quick and easy dinner that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can create a variety of mouth-watering dishes that will have everyone asking for seconds.
From classic comfort foods like chicken and rice to international-inspired flavors like Thai peanut and Mediterranean olive, there’s a chicken skillet recipe out there to suit every taste and dietary need. And the best part? Most of these recipes can be prepared in just 30 minutes or less, making them perfect for busy weeknights when time is of the essence.
In this article, we’ll share our top 20 favorite quick and easy chicken skillet recipes that are sure to become new family favorites. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a culinary newbie, these recipes will show you just how easy it is to create a delicious and satisfying meal with minimal fuss and effort.
Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Spinach
A flavorful and easy-to-make skillet recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter with the savory taste of chicken and spinach.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tbsp of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tbsp of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, stirring to combine with the garlic butter mixture.
5. Add the fresh spinach leaves and stir until wilted.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines the rich flavors of Italy with the convenience of a one-pot meal. Tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy sauce come together to create a satisfying dinner that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add the onion, garlic, and mushrooms. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to coat with sauce.
6. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Lemon Herb Chicken and Potatoes Skillet
Brighten up your dinner routine with this flavorful one-pan wonder. Tender chicken, crispy potatoes, and a hint of citrus make for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large cast-iron skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. Add the potatoes to the skillet and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until they’re tender and lightly browned.
5. Add the garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Stir in the lemon juice and return the chicken to the skillet.
7. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
8. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Skillet
A sweet and spicy twist on classic chicken skillet, this recipe combines the bold flavors of honey, garlic, and chili flakes for a quick and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, honey, chili flakes, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
4. Stir to combine and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
One-Pan Chicken and Rice Skillet
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this simple and satisfying one-pan recipe. This hearty skillet combines flavorful chicken, fluffy rice, and tender vegetables for a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy households.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the red bell pepper and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
7. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is heated through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Skillet
This hearty one-skillet meal is a perfect solution for a busy day when you need something comforting and satisfying. With tender chicken, crunchy broccoli, and gooey cheese, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the broccoli, garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the broccoli is tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and bubbly.
5. Sprinkle with parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Fajita Skillet with Peppers and Onions
Quick and flavorful, this one-skillet wonder combines juicy chicken, crispy peppers, and sweet onions for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 small flour tortillas, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet.
3. Add the peppers and onions to the skillet. Cook until they start to soften, about 4 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables.
6. Serve hot with warm flour tortillas.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken and Olive Skillet
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this hearty skillet dish featuring chicken, olives, artichoke hearts, and sun-dried tomatoes. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, canned or marinated in olive oil
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the sliced olives, artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and oregano to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the Mediterranean flavors.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Chicken and Corn Skillet
This hearty skillet dinner combines juicy chicken, sweet corn, and tangy BBQ sauce for a flavorful meal that’s ready in no time. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups frozen corn kernels
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the corn kernels to the skillet and cook until slightly tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the BBQ sauce and garlic powder. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the BBQ mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes.
Chicken Alfredo Pasta Skillet
In just one skillet, this recipe combines the comfort of pasta with the richness of chicken and Alfredo sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup cooked Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
4. Add cooked pasta, Alfredo sauce, and cooked chicken back into the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken and Vegetable Skillet
A flavorful and nutritious skillet meal that combines tender chicken with a medley of colorful vegetables in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 small zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, zucchini, and mushrooms to skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add teriyaki sauce to skillet and stir to combine with vegetables. Return chicken to skillet and simmer until coated in sauce, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with green onions if desired.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Mushroom Skillet with White Wine Sauce
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this rich and flavorful skillet dish, featuring chicken, mushrooms, and a velvety white wine sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet.
3. Add the mushrooms and garlic; cook until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add the white wine, mustard, and thyme. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce reduces slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce. Cook until the chicken is cooked through, about 5-6 minutes more.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes.
Southwest Chicken and Black Bean Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines the bold flavors of the Southwest with the comfort of a one-pot meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it’s quick to prepare and packed with protein, fiber, and spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the bell pepper, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the black beans, cooked chicken, and cilantro (if using) to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Chicken and Cherry Tomato Skillet
This flavorful skillet dish combines juicy chicken breast with vibrant cherry tomatoes and rich pesto sauce, all cooked to perfection in one pan. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they start to release their juices.
5. Stir in the pesto sauce and cook for an additional minute.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the tomato mixture.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Sweet Potato Hash Skillet
A hearty and flavorful one-pot dish that combines tender chicken, caramelized sweet potatoes, and crispy hash browns. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the sweet potatoes, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the sweet potato mixture.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Sprinkle with parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Cajun Chicken and Sausage Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines juicy chicken, spicy sausage, and crispy vegetables for a flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its bold Cajun seasoning and one-pot simplicity, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for greasing the skillet
Instructions:
1. Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add cooking oil or butter to grease the pan.
2. Cook the chicken and sausage in batches until browned, about 5 minutes per batch. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies and Cajun seasoning. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return the chicken and sausage to the skillet and stir to combine. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Zucchini Noodle Skillet
This flavorful skillet meal combines juicy chicken, tender zucchini noodles, and savory spices for a satisfying dinner that’s ready in no time. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend brunch, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the zucchinis to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir in paprika, salt, and pepper.
7. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
8. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
9. Serve hot, topped with shredded mozzarella cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Peanut Chicken Skillet with Rice
This flavorful skillet dish combines tender chicken, crunchy peanuts, and aromatic Thai spices with a serving of fluffy rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp peanut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup peanuts
– 2 tbsp Thai red curry paste
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat peanut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in peanuts, curry paste, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine with the peanut mixture.
6. Serve over cooked rice and spoon some of the peanut sauce from the skillet on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Asparagus Skillet with Lemon Sauce
This vibrant skillet dish combines the tender flavors of chicken, asparagus, and lemon, all in one easy-to-make recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch, this flavorful skillet is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the asparagus, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet; cook for 4-6 minutes or until tender.
5. Stir in lemon juice and butter; bring to a simmer.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Skillet Chicken Parmesan with Mozzarella
A classic Italian-American dish gets a modern twist with this skillet recipe that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This one-pan wonder is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the egg, then coat in breadcrumb mixture.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Transfer chicken to a baking dish and top with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 20 quick and easy chicken skillet recipes! From classic comfort foods to international flavors, this collection has something for everyone. Whether you’re craving creamy Tuscan chicken or spicy honey garlic chicken, there’s a recipe here that’s sure to please. With ingredients like spinach, broccoli, and sweet potatoes, these one-pot wonders are perfect for busy families or singles on-the-go. So go ahead, get cooking, and make mealtime a breeze!
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