High Protein Low Carb Chicken Skillet Delight

ByNaomi
- Chicken and Vegetables - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces - 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons - 1 bell pepper, chopped into small cubes - 1 cup fresh broccoli florets - Seasonings and Broth - 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil - 2 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika - Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste - ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth - Optional Ingredients - ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese - Fresh parsley, chopped When I make this dish, I love the blend of fresh veggies and tender chicken. The chicken breasts provide lean protein, making this meal filling yet low in carbs. Zucchini and bell peppers add color and crunch, while broccoli gives it a healthy boost. The olive oil starts everything off with a rich flavor. Garlic adds a nice kick. Italian seasoning and smoked paprika bring warmth and depth. For a creamier finish, I sometimes add Parmesan cheese. It melts into the dish and makes it even tastier. Chop the ingredients before you start cooking. This way, you can easily add them all to the skillet. Using fresh herbs like parsley at the end brightens the meal and makes it look nice. {{ingredient_image_2}} To start, heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet. Set the heat to medium-high until the oil shimmers. This step helps to avoid sticking and ensures even cooking. Next, cut the two boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet. Season it well with sea salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes, stirring often. You want it to be golden brown and fully cooked. After the chicken is browned, it’s time to add flavor. Toss in two cloves of finely minced garlic. Stir the garlic in for one more minute, allowing it to become fragrant without burning. This adds a lovely aroma to your dish. Now comes the fun part: adding fresh veggies! Slice one medium zucchini into half-moons. Chop one bell pepper into small cubes. Also, prepare one cup of fresh broccoli florets. Add all these vegetables to the skillet, mixing them well with the chicken. Pour in ¼ cup of low-sodium chicken broth. This will give depth to your dish and keep everything moist. Cover the skillet with a lid, turn down the heat to medium, and let it simmer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the veggies are tender but still bright in color. For a creamy finish, sprinkle ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Cover the skillet again for a minute or two. This allows the cheese to melt perfectly into the dish. Finally, remove the skillet from the heat. Take a moment to garnish with freshly chopped parsley. This adds a pop of color and flavor. Your high protein low carb chicken skillet is ready to serve! Perfectly Cooking Chicken To cook chicken well, start with bite-sized pieces. This helps the chicken cook evenly. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook it in olive oil over medium-high heat. Stir often to avoid burning. The chicken should take about 5-6 minutes. Check that it's no longer pink inside. This ensures it's safe to eat. Sautéing Vegetables When sautéing vegetables, use high heat to keep them crisp. Add garlic after the chicken is cooked. This way, garlic gets fragrant but doesn’t burn. Then, add your veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and broccoli. Stir them well to coat with seasoning. Cover with a lid and simmer for 5-7 minutes. This keeps the color bright and the texture just right. Additional Seasoning Options You can play with flavors! Try adding crushed red pepper for heat. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can add depth. A splash of lemon juice brightens the dish. You can also swap the Italian seasoning for a taco blend for a twist. Substituting Ingredients If you don’t have zucchini, consider using asparagus or green beans. For protein, turkey or tofu works well. You can use vegetable broth if you want a vegetarian option. Each swap can change the dish while keeping it healthy. Experiment to find what you love best! Pro Tips Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. Prep Your Veggies Ahead: Chop your vegetables in advance to save time during cooking. This allows for a quicker and smoother cooking process. Customize Your Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give your dish an extra kick! Let It Rest: After cooking, let the skillet sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. {{image_4}} You can change the chicken for other meats. Try turkey or lean pork. If you prefer plant-based options, tofu or tempeh work well. Just cut them into small pieces and cook them like chicken. Each protein brings a unique taste and texture. This keeps your meals fresh and exciting. Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables. Asparagus, green beans, or cauliflower can all shine in this dish. Roasted or sautéed mushrooms add a rich flavor. Mix and match to suit your tastes. The key is to keep the veggies colorful and crunchy. Experiment with different spices to change the flavor. Try cumin for a warm, earthy taste. Chili powder adds a nice kick. You can also use fresh herbs like basil or cilantro. These can give your dish a whole new vibe. For extra flavor, consider adding sauces. A splash of soy sauce or teriyaki sauce can bring a sweet and salty touch. Hot sauce adds heat if you like spice. For a creamy twist, use a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Each sauce offers a new way to enjoy your chicken skillet. To keep your High Protein Low Carb Chicken Skillet fresh, store leftovers in the fridge. Use an airtight container. It will stay good for up to three days. Make sure to let it cool before sealing. This helps prevent moisture from building up. When you’re ready to eat, reheating is easy. The best way is to use a skillet. Heat over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir frequently for even heating. You can also use a microwave. Place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it with a lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small gap for steam. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between. Enjoy your tasty meal! A high protein low carb diet offers many benefits. It helps with weight loss by reducing hunger. Eating more protein boosts muscle growth and repair. You may also notice more energy throughout the day. This diet helps maintain steady blood sugar levels, which can improve overall health. Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Cook the chicken and vegetables as directed. Let it cool before storing it in an airtight container. It will last in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove until warm. This recipe is perfect for meal prep. It yields four servings, which makes it easy to divide. Pack each serving in a container for easy lunches or dinners. The flavors blend well over time, enhancing the taste. Plus, it’s quick to make and reheat, saving you time during the week. This blog covered a tasty recipe that combines chicken and veggies. You learned about preparing and cooking each ingredient step-by-step. You now have tips to enhance flavor and make swaps if needed. I shared storage advice to keep leftovers fresh and FAQs to clear up any questions. Cooking can be fun and easy with these steps. Enjoy making this dish your own, and don't forget to experiment!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Looking for a tasty meal that is high in protein and low in carbs? You’ve landed in the right spot! My High Protein Low Carb Chicken Skillet Delight is packed with flavor and nutrition. This dish features juicy chicken and vibrant veggies, all cooked in one skillet for easy cleanup. Stick around as I break down the ingredients and instructions to help you whip up this scrumptious meal in no time!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. High Protein Content: This dish is packed with protein from the chicken, making it a perfect choice for muscle recovery and satiety.
  2. Low Carb Delight: With a focus on vegetables and lean protein, this recipe is ideal for those following a low-carb diet.
  3. Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a great option for busy weeknights when you need a healthy meal fast.
  4. Flavorful and Colorful: The combination of vibrant vegetables and aromatic spices makes this dish not only tasty but visually appealing.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– Chicken and Vegetables

– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

– 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons

– 1 bell pepper, chopped into small cubes

– 1 cup fresh broccoli florets

– Seasonings and Broth

– 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

– 2 cloves garlic, finely minced

– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend

– ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

– Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

– ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth

– Optional Ingredients

– ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

– Fresh parsley, chopped

When I make this dish, I love the blend of fresh veggies and tender chicken. The chicken breasts provide lean protein, making this meal filling yet low in carbs. Zucchini and bell peppers add color and crunch, while broccoli gives it a healthy boost.

The olive oil starts everything off with a rich flavor. Garlic adds a nice kick. Italian seasoning and smoked paprika bring warmth and depth. For a creamier finish, I sometimes add Parmesan cheese. It melts into the dish and makes it even tastier.

Chop the ingredients before you start cooking. This way, you can easily add them all to the skillet. Using fresh herbs like parsley at the end brightens the meal and makes it look nice.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

To start, heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet. Set the heat to medium-high until the oil shimmers. This step helps to avoid sticking and ensures even cooking.

Next, cut the two boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet. Season it well with sea salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes, stirring often. You want it to be golden brown and fully cooked.

After the chicken is browned, it’s time to add flavor. Toss in two cloves of finely minced garlic. Stir the garlic in for one more minute, allowing it to become fragrant without burning. This adds a lovely aroma to your dish.

Cooking the Vegetables

Now comes the fun part: adding fresh veggies! Slice one medium zucchini into half-moons. Chop one bell pepper into small cubes. Also, prepare one cup of fresh broccoli florets. Add all these vegetables to the skillet, mixing them well with the chicken.

Pour in ¼ cup of low-sodium chicken broth. This will give depth to your dish and keep everything moist. Cover the skillet with a lid, turn down the heat to medium, and let it simmer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the veggies are tender but still bright in color.

Finishing Touches

For a creamy finish, sprinkle ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Cover the skillet again for a minute or two. This allows the cheese to melt perfectly into the dish.

Finally, remove the skillet from the heat. Take a moment to garnish with freshly chopped parsley. This adds a pop of color and flavor. Your high protein low carb chicken skillet is ready to serve!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Techniques

Perfectly Cooking Chicken

To cook chicken well, start with bite-sized pieces. This helps the chicken cook evenly. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook it in olive oil over medium-high heat. Stir often to avoid burning. The chicken should take about 5-6 minutes. Check that it’s no longer pink inside. This ensures it’s safe to eat.

Sautéing Vegetables

When sautéing vegetables, use high heat to keep them crisp. Add garlic after the chicken is cooked. This way, garlic gets fragrant but doesn’t burn. Then, add your veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and broccoli. Stir them well to coat with seasoning. Cover with a lid and simmer for 5-7 minutes. This keeps the color bright and the texture just right.

Flavor Enhancements

Additional Seasoning Options

You can play with flavors! Try adding crushed red pepper for heat. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can add depth. A splash of lemon juice brightens the dish. You can also swap the Italian seasoning for a taco blend for a twist.

Substituting Ingredients

If you don’t have zucchini, consider using asparagus or green beans. For protein, turkey or tofu works well. You can use vegetable broth if you want a vegetarian option. Each swap can change the dish while keeping it healthy. Experiment to find what you love best!

Pro Tips

  1. Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
  2. Prep Your Veggies Ahead: Chop your vegetables in advance to save time during cooking. This allows for a quicker and smoother cooking process.
  3. Customize Your Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give your dish an extra kick!
  4. Let It Rest: After cooking, let the skillet sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

Different Proteins

You can change the chicken for other meats. Try turkey or lean pork. If you prefer plant-based options, tofu or tempeh work well. Just cut them into small pieces and cook them like chicken. Each protein brings a unique taste and texture. This keeps your meals fresh and exciting.

Alternative Vegetables

Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables. Asparagus, green beans, or cauliflower can all shine in this dish. Roasted or sautéed mushrooms add a rich flavor. Mix and match to suit your tastes. The key is to keep the veggies colorful and crunchy.

Flavor Profiles

Changing Up Seasonings

Experiment with different spices to change the flavor. Try cumin for a warm, earthy taste. Chili powder adds a nice kick. You can also use fresh herbs like basil or cilantro. These can give your dish a whole new vibe.

Adding Sauces

For extra flavor, consider adding sauces. A splash of soy sauce or teriyaki sauce can bring a sweet and salty touch. Hot sauce adds heat if you like spice. For a creamy twist, use a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Each sauce offers a new way to enjoy your chicken skillet.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

To keep your High Protein Low Carb Chicken Skillet fresh, store leftovers in the fridge. Use an airtight container. It will stay good for up to three days. Make sure to let it cool before sealing. This helps prevent moisture from building up.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to eat, reheating is easy. The best way is to use a skillet. Heat over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir frequently for even heating. You can also use a microwave. Place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it with a lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small gap for steam. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between. Enjoy your tasty meal!

FAQs

What are the nutritional benefits of a high protein low carb diet?

A high protein low carb diet offers many benefits. It helps with weight loss by reducing hunger. Eating more protein boosts muscle growth and repair. You may also notice more energy throughout the day. This diet helps maintain steady blood sugar levels, which can improve overall health.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Cook the chicken and vegetables as directed. Let it cool before storing it in an airtight container. It will last in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove until warm.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

This recipe is perfect for meal prep. It yields four servings, which makes it easy to divide. Pack each serving in a container for easy lunches or dinners. The flavors blend well over time, enhancing the taste. Plus, it’s quick to make and reheat, saving you time during the week.

This blog covered a tasty recipe that combines chicken and veggies. You learned about preparing and cooking each ingredient step-by-step. You now have tips to enhance flavor and make swaps if needed. I shared storage advice to keep leftovers fresh and FAQs to clear up any questions. Cooking can be fun and easy with these steps. Enjoy making this dish your own, and don’t forget to experimen

- Chicken and Vegetables - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces - 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons - 1 bell pepper, chopped into small cubes - 1 cup fresh broccoli florets - Seasonings and Broth - 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil - 2 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika - Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste - ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth - Optional Ingredients - ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese - Fresh parsley, chopped When I make this dish, I love the blend of fresh veggies and tender chicken. The chicken breasts provide lean protein, making this meal filling yet low in carbs. Zucchini and bell peppers add color and crunch, while broccoli gives it a healthy boost. The olive oil starts everything off with a rich flavor. Garlic adds a nice kick. Italian seasoning and smoked paprika bring warmth and depth. For a creamier finish, I sometimes add Parmesan cheese. It melts into the dish and makes it even tastier. Chop the ingredients before you start cooking. This way, you can easily add them all to the skillet. Using fresh herbs like parsley at the end brightens the meal and makes it look nice. {{ingredient_image_2}} To start, heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet. Set the heat to medium-high until the oil shimmers. This step helps to avoid sticking and ensures even cooking. Next, cut the two boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet. Season it well with sea salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes, stirring often. You want it to be golden brown and fully cooked. After the chicken is browned, it’s time to add flavor. Toss in two cloves of finely minced garlic. Stir the garlic in for one more minute, allowing it to become fragrant without burning. This adds a lovely aroma to your dish. Now comes the fun part: adding fresh veggies! Slice one medium zucchini into half-moons. Chop one bell pepper into small cubes. Also, prepare one cup of fresh broccoli florets. Add all these vegetables to the skillet, mixing them well with the chicken. Pour in ¼ cup of low-sodium chicken broth. This will give depth to your dish and keep everything moist. Cover the skillet with a lid, turn down the heat to medium, and let it simmer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the veggies are tender but still bright in color. For a creamy finish, sprinkle ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Cover the skillet again for a minute or two. This allows the cheese to melt perfectly into the dish. Finally, remove the skillet from the heat. Take a moment to garnish with freshly chopped parsley. This adds a pop of color and flavor. Your high protein low carb chicken skillet is ready to serve! Perfectly Cooking Chicken To cook chicken well, start with bite-sized pieces. This helps the chicken cook evenly. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook it in olive oil over medium-high heat. Stir often to avoid burning. The chicken should take about 5-6 minutes. Check that it's no longer pink inside. This ensures it's safe to eat. Sautéing Vegetables When sautéing vegetables, use high heat to keep them crisp. Add garlic after the chicken is cooked. This way, garlic gets fragrant but doesn’t burn. Then, add your veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and broccoli. Stir them well to coat with seasoning. Cover with a lid and simmer for 5-7 minutes. This keeps the color bright and the texture just right. Additional Seasoning Options You can play with flavors! Try adding crushed red pepper for heat. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can add depth. A splash of lemon juice brightens the dish. You can also swap the Italian seasoning for a taco blend for a twist. Substituting Ingredients If you don’t have zucchini, consider using asparagus or green beans. For protein, turkey or tofu works well. You can use vegetable broth if you want a vegetarian option. Each swap can change the dish while keeping it healthy. Experiment to find what you love best! Pro Tips Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. Prep Your Veggies Ahead: Chop your vegetables in advance to save time during cooking. This allows for a quicker and smoother cooking process. Customize Your Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give your dish an extra kick! Let It Rest: After cooking, let the skillet sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. {{image_4}} You can change the chicken for other meats. Try turkey or lean pork. If you prefer plant-based options, tofu or tempeh work well. Just cut them into small pieces and cook them like chicken. Each protein brings a unique taste and texture. This keeps your meals fresh and exciting. Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables. Asparagus, green beans, or cauliflower can all shine in this dish. Roasted or sautéed mushrooms add a rich flavor. Mix and match to suit your tastes. The key is to keep the veggies colorful and crunchy. Experiment with different spices to change the flavor. Try cumin for a warm, earthy taste. Chili powder adds a nice kick. You can also use fresh herbs like basil or cilantro. These can give your dish a whole new vibe. For extra flavor, consider adding sauces. A splash of soy sauce or teriyaki sauce can bring a sweet and salty touch. Hot sauce adds heat if you like spice. For a creamy twist, use a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Each sauce offers a new way to enjoy your chicken skillet. To keep your High Protein Low Carb Chicken Skillet fresh, store leftovers in the fridge. Use an airtight container. It will stay good for up to three days. Make sure to let it cool before sealing. This helps prevent moisture from building up. When you’re ready to eat, reheating is easy. The best way is to use a skillet. Heat over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir frequently for even heating. You can also use a microwave. Place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it with a lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small gap for steam. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between. Enjoy your tasty meal! A high protein low carb diet offers many benefits. It helps with weight loss by reducing hunger. Eating more protein boosts muscle growth and repair. You may also notice more energy throughout the day. This diet helps maintain steady blood sugar levels, which can improve overall health. Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Cook the chicken and vegetables as directed. Let it cool before storing it in an airtight container. It will last in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove until warm. This recipe is perfect for meal prep. It yields four servings, which makes it easy to divide. Pack each serving in a container for easy lunches or dinners. The flavors blend well over time, enhancing the taste. Plus, it’s quick to make and reheat, saving you time during the week. This blog covered a tasty recipe that combines chicken and veggies. You learned about preparing and cooking each ingredient step-by-step. You now have tips to enhance flavor and make swaps if needed. I shared storage advice to keep leftovers fresh and FAQs to clear up any questions. Cooking can be fun and easy with these steps. Enjoy making this dish your own, and don't forget to experiment!

High Protein Low Carb Chicken Skillet Delight

A delicious and healthy chicken skillet dish packed with protein and low in carbs, featuring fresh vegetables and Italian flavors.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
  • 1 piece bell pepper, chopped into small cubes
  • 1 cup fresh broccoli florets
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend
  • 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 to taste sea salt
  • 1 to taste freshly ground black pepper
  • 0.25 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese, optional
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions
 

  • In a large, non-stick skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  • Add the diced chicken pieces to the skillet. Season the chicken generously with sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
  • Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for an additional minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant and golden.
  • Next, introduce the sliced zucchini, chopped bell pepper, and broccoli florets into the skillet. Stir all the ingredients together until they are well combined and coated with the seasoning.
  • Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, covering the skillet with a lid. Reduce the heat to medium and allow to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender yet vibrant.
  • If you'd like to enhance the dish with creaminess, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Cover the skillet again for a minute or two, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully into the dish.
  • Once everything is beautifully combined and cooked, remove from the heat. Garnish with a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley to brighten the dish before serving.

Notes

For an eye-catching presentation, serve the chicken skillet in shallow bowls, and sprinkle extra Parmesan and parsley on top. Pair with a side of fresh mixed greens for a well-rounded meal.
Keyword chicken, healthy, high protein, low carb, skillet

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