A colorful, protein-packed skillet dinner with tender chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy rice—perfect for a quick, wholesome meal!
Servings & Timing
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Dietary Tags: High-Protein, Easy Dinner, Family-Friendly
📝 Ingredients
1 lb boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
1 zucchini, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
1 cup broccoli florets
1 small onion, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt & pepper, to taste
2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
¼ cup cream or half & half (for creamy rice)
1 tbsp butter (optional, for rice)
🔪 Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 6–8 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Add remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to the same skillet.
Sauté onion, zucchini, bell peppers, and broccoli for 5–7 minutes until tender-crisp.
Step 3: Prepare Creamy Rice
In a separate pot, mix cooked rice with cream (and butter if using) over low heat until warmed through and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Return chicken to the skillet and toss with the vegetables until heated through.
Serve creamy rice topped with the chicken and veggie mixture. Enjoy!
💡 Notes & Tips
Rice choice: Brown rice adds more fiber and lowers W-W points slightly.
Lighter option: Skip butter and use reduced-fat cream or half-and-half.
Meal prep tip: Store the chicken-veggie mix and rice separately for easier reheating.
📸 Step-by-Step Guide
(Suggested photo ideas: cooking chicken → sautéing veggies → creamy rice → final plated dish)
Pro Tip: Cut vegetables evenly for consistent cooking and better presentation!
🥄 Ingredient Insights & Swaps
Why these ingredients?
Chicken breast: Lean, high-protein, and versatile.
Veggies: Add volume, fiber, and vibrant color.
Creamy rice: Balances the savory elements with a rich texture.
Substitutions:
Use light coconut milk for a dairy-free creamy rice option.
Swap in other veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or green beans.
🎨 Flavor Variations & Serving Ideas
Flavor Ideas:
Add crushed red pepper for a spicy kick.
Sprinkle with grated Parmesan for extra flavor (adds points).
Stir in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a side salad for extra veggies.
Double the veggies for