Description
This quick and easy skillet chicken skillet meal helps you transform leftover cooked chicken and pantry staples into a warm, comforting, and flavorful dinner perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Loaded with vegetables, rice or pasta, and optional cheese, it’s a versatile dish that comes together in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh, such as peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 cup cooked rice or pasta
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or mixed herbs
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the aromatics.
- Sauté the onion: Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent and softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Combine chicken and vegetables: Toss in the cooked chicken and mixed vegetables, stirring well to combine and heat everything through evenly.
- Add chicken broth and simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to meld the flavors and warm the ingredients.
- Incorporate rice or pasta: Stir in the cooked rice or pasta thoroughly, ensuring even heating throughout the skillet mixture.
- Season the dish: Sprinkle salt, pepper, and dried Italian or mixed herbs to taste, adjusting seasoning as desired.
- Melt the cheese (optional): If using shredded cheese, sprinkle it on top, cover the pan, and let it melt for 2-3 minutes over low heat.
- Serve and garnish: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve the dish warm for best flavor.
Notes
- Feel free to swap the mixed vegetables for any on-hand options like broccoli, bell peppers, or green beans.
- For a creamier texture, add a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving.
- This recipe is flexible and works equally well with leftover turkey, pork, or even tofu for variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
