Introduction
If you’re looking for a Speedy Skillet Chicken Primavera that tastes as good as it looks, you’re in the right place. As Chef Kristina here at Easy Recipes, I know what it’s like to juggle busy weeknights, hungry kids, and a craving for something bright and flavorful. That’s why I developed this one-pan wonder—packed with colorful veggies, tender chicken, and a hint of lemon—ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish.
This recipe strikes the perfect balance between wholesome ingredients and minimal fuss. It’s become a staple in my own kitchen when time is tight but I still want that homemade touch. And trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why readers keep calling it their go-to weeknight hero.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Speedy Skillet Chicken Primavera
- Ultra-quick: From chopping board to dinner table in under half an hour—ideal for busy families.
- One-pan convenience: Fewer dishes to wash and maximum flavor from skillet-searing.
- Nutritious & colorful: Lean protein meets a rainbow of veggies for a balanced plate.
- Customizable: Swap proteins, add extra veggies, or turn it creamy—see <a href=”/easy-vegetable-stir-fry”>Easy Vegetable Stir-Fry</a> for more ideas!
- Crowd-pleaser: Mildly seasoned to please kids and adjustable with a kick of red pepper flakes for adults.
The Origins of Chicken Primavera
“Primavera” means “spring” in Italian, and traditionally the dish celebrates the season’s first fresh produce. While classic Chicken Primavera often features pasta and a cream sauce, I wanted a lighter, quicker skillet version. Inspired by my grandmother’s vegetable garden, this recipe brings spring to your plate year-round—no need to boil a pot of pasta separately or babysit a heavy sauce.
Ingredients Explained
- Chicken Breasts (1 lb): Boneless, skinless pieces cook quickly and lean protein keeps calories in check.
- Zucchini & Bell Peppers: Provide vibrant color, crunch, and fiber.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Burst with juiciness and natural sweetness.
- Olive Oil & Aromatics: Olive oil, onion, and garlic form a fragrant flavor base.
- Italian Seasoning: A simple blend of dried herbs that ties everything together.
- Chicken Broth (⅓ cup): Deglazes the pan and creates a light sauce without heaviness.
- Parmesan & Lemon Juice: Add umami depth and bright acidity—essential finishing touches.
- Fresh Basil: A classic garnish that elevates aroma and presentation.
Chef Tip: Always pat your chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a good sear and avoid steaming.
How to Make Speedy Skillet Chicken Primavera (Step-by-Step)
- Prep your mise en place.
- Dice the onion and garlic, slice zucchini and peppers, halve the tomatoes, and pat chicken dry.
- Season & sear chicken.
- Coat chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in the skillet; toast chicken until golden (about 6 minutes). Transfer out.
- Build flavor with aromatics.
- Add remaining olive oil, sauté onion for 2 minutes, then garlic for 30 seconds.
- Sauté the veggies.
- Toss in zucchini and peppers, stirring for 3–4 minutes until just tender.
- Combine & simmer.
- Return chicken, add cherry tomatoes & broth.
- Cook 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes soften and broth reduces.
- Finish the sauce.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese off heat, then drizzle lemon juice.
- Taste and adjust salt/pepper.
- Garnish & plate.
- Sprinkle fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Internal Resource: Love one-pan dinners? Don’t miss our One-Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp for another quick, flavor-packed meal!
Speedy Skillet Chicken Primavera – Quick & Flavorful Weeknight Meal
Course: TextCuisine: DinnerDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes20
minutes450
kcalA vibrant and healthy one-pan meal featuring tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a light sauce, ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, diced
½ tsp Italian seasoning
⅓ cup low-sodium chicken broth
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Directions
- Season the chicken. In a bowl, toss chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until evenly coated
- Brown the chicken. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly golden. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics. In the same skillet, add onion and cook 2 minutes until translucent. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the veggies. Add zucchini and bell peppers; sauté 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender.
- Build the sauce. Return chicken to the skillet. Add cherry tomatoes and chicken broth; stir and cook 4–5 minutes, allowing liquid to reduce slightly.
- Finish with cheese & lemon. Stir in Parmesan and lemon juice until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Garnish & serve. Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh basil, and serve straight from the skillet.
Notes
- Seafood swap: Use peeled shrimp instead of chicken—reduce cooking time by 2–3 minutes.
- Extra veggies: Add sliced mushrooms or asparagus for more color and texture.
- Creamy twist: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream at the end for a richer sauce.
Chef Kristina’s Tips and Tricks
- Even Cooking: Cut chicken into uniform pieces so everything finishes at the same time.
- Hot Pan, No Crowding: Give chicken enough space; overcrowding will steam, not sear.
- Veggie Texture: If you prefer crisper veggies, add the zucchini a minute later than the peppers.
- Broth Swap: No chicken broth? Use low-sodium vegetable broth or even white wine for extra depth.
- Cheese Finish: Grate Parmesan fresh—pre-grated versions don’t melt as smoothly.
Variations and Add-Ons
- Creamy Primavera: Stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream or crème fraîche before adding cheese.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle ¼ tsp red pepper flakes with the Italian seasoning.
- Pesto Twist: Omit lemon juice and toss in 2 tbsp basil pesto at the end.
- Gluten-Free Pasta: Serve this skillet mixture over cooked rice pasta or gluten-free rotini.
- Vegetarian Swap: Replace chicken with cubed firm tofu—marinate in Italian seasoning first.
Ingredient Swaps for Dietary Needs
- Low-Carb: Serve alone or over cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
- Dairy-Free: Skip Parmesan and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Keto-Friendly: Use extra olive oil, omit tomatoes (they add carbs), and add extra zucchini.
- Paleo: Ensure your broth is compliant, and garnish with nutritional yeast in place of cheese.
Serving Suggestions
- Simple Sides: A crisp green salad and crusty bread soak up every drop of sauce.
- Make it a Meal: Pair with our Healthy Quinoa Salad for grain and protein balance.
- Family Style: Serve right from the skillet at the table for a rustic, communal feel.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Gently warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth to revive sauce.
- Freeze: Freeze cooled portions (without cheese) for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in fridge before reheating and finish with Parmesan & basil.
Nutrition Breakdown (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 5 g |
| Fat | 25 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7 g |
| Sodium | 520 mg |
Note: Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on the brands you use.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely! Thaw and drain excess liquid first, then add to the skillet with a slightly longer cook time (2–3 extra minutes).
2. Is chicken thighs okay instead of breasts?
Yes—dark meat brings more flavor. Cut into bite-sized pieces and adjust cooking time by 1–2 minutes if needed.
3. How do I prevent veggies from getting soggy?
Use a hot pan and high heat. Cook in batches if needed, and don’t cover the skillet while cooking.
4. What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the lemony-herb flavors beautifully.
5. Can I double the recipe?
You can—but use a larger pan or cook in two batches to ensure even searing.
Final Thoughts on Speedy Skillet Chicken Primavera
Bringing together tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a light, tangy sauce, this Speedy Skillet Chicken Primavera is the epitome of easy weeknight comfort-food—without the guilt or fuss. Whether you’re a busy parent, an aspiring home cook, or someone who simply craves bright flavors, this recipe will earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.
Give it a try tonight, and let me know how it turns out in the comments below. If you loved this, be sure to share your photos on social media and tag us @EasyRecipes. Hungry for more? Check out our Classic Chicken Alfredo and join our newsletter for the latest quick-prep meals delivered straight to your inbox!
Happy cooking,
Chef Kristina
