Imagine a one-pan wonder that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece that'll have your family begging for seconds! This Chicken Skillet with Brussels and Squash is not just a meal; it's a culinary adventure that combines tender chicken, caramelized vegetables, and bold flavors in under 45 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe is about to become your new go-to dinner solution that proves healthy eating can be incredibly delicious.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
- 1 medium butternut squash, cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all the ingredients. Dice the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and set aside. Halve the Brussels sprouts and cube the butternut squash into roughly 1-inch pieces for even cooking.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced chicken breast to the skillet.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and cooked through. Ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and transfer it to a plate. Cover it with foil to keep it warm while you prepare the vegetables.
- In the same skillet, add the halved Brussels sprouts and cubed butternut squash. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the remaining oil and any drippings from the chicken.
- Season the vegetables with additional salt and pepper to taste. Sauté the Brussels sprouts and squash for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and slightly caramelized. You can add a splash of water to the skillet if the vegetables start to stick.
- Once the vegetables are cooked, return the chicken to the skillet. Stir everything together to combine and heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let it rest for a minute. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve the chicken skillet warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. This dish pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for food safety. Use a meat thermometer for precise cooking.
- Vegetable Cutting Matters: Cut Brussels sprouts and squash into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking and beautiful caramelization.
- Don't Overcrowd the Skillet: Cook in batches if necessary to allow vegetables and chicken to brown properly instead of steaming.
- Flavor Boosting Hack: Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra flavor dimension.
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to swap butternut squash with sweet potatoes or add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Leftover Magic: This dish reheats beautifully and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 95mg
