One pot meals are a game changer, especially when it comes to busy weeknights. There’s something incredibly satisfying about tossing together fresh ingredients, letting them simmer in a single pot, and ending up with a flavorful, hearty dish that requires minimal cleanup.
Chicken and vegetable one pot recipes are particularly popular because they combine lean protein with nutritious veggies, making for a balanced and delicious meal.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are approachable, versatile, and perfect for meal prep or family dinners. The magic lies in layering flavors and using simple techniques that bring out the best in every ingredient.
Plus, with endless variations, you can tailor these dishes to your taste preferences or whatever you have on hand.
In this post, you’ll discover not just one but several fantastic chicken and veg one pot recipes that will simplify your cooking routine and elevate your dinner table. Ready to dive into easy, wholesome meals that everyone will love?
Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One pot chicken and vegetable recipes offer a perfect balance of convenience and nutrition. You save time by cooking everything together, which means fewer dishes and more time to relax or spend with loved ones.
These recipes are also incredibly flexible. You can swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust seasonings to suit your mood or dietary needs.
The chicken remains tender and juicy, absorbing the flavors of the herbs and broth, while the veggies cook to just the right softness without losing their nutrients.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or making a quick dinner, these dishes are full of vibrant colors, textures, and tastes that will keep you coming back for more. Plus, by cooking everything in one pot, you retain more flavor and reduce waste.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts if preferred)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and halved
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Equipment
- Large deep skillet or Dutch oven with lid
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Ladle (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and dried thyme.
- Heat the oil: In your large deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken thighs. Sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics: Lower the heat to medium. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Stir frequently and cook until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Add the vegetables: Toss in the sliced carrots, chopped red bell pepper, zucchini, and green beans. Stir well to combine and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the veggies to soften slightly.
- Deglaze and simmer: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits. Return the chicken thighs to the pot, nestling them in among the vegetables. Cover with the lid and reduce heat to low.
- Cook thoroughly: Let everything simmer gently for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
- Finish with tomatoes: Add the cherry tomatoes during the last 5 minutes of cooking to allow them to soften without losing their shape.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top before serving. Adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed.
Tips & Variations
“One pot meals are all about flexibility—don’t hesitate to swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables or add some spices like cumin or chili flakes for a kick!”
Tip: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking.
Variation: Try adding rice or small pasta (like orzo) to the pot. Add about 1 cup of rinsed rice or pasta with the broth, and increase the liquid by 1 cup.
Cook until the grains are tender for a more filling, one-pot meal.
Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas and increase the vegetable broth to 2 cups. Cook vegetables and tofu together until heated through.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 320 kcal |
Protein | 32 g |
Carbohydrates | 15 g |
Fiber | 4 g |
Fat | 12 g |
Saturated Fat | 2 g |
Sodium | 480 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This one pot chicken and vegetable dish is delicious on its own, but you can also pair it with a simple green salad or crusty bread to soak up any delicious juices.
For a heartier meal, serve alongside quinoa or couscous to add some extra grains to your plate. If you’re looking for a refreshing contrast, a side of tangy pickles like our Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe works beautifully.
Looking for more chicken inspiration? Check out our Pcos Chicken Recipes for wholesome and flavorful ideas that cater to specific dietary needs.
More Delicious Chicken and Veg One Pot Recipes
Mediterranean Chicken and Veggie One Pot
This vibrant recipe uses chicken breasts, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist. Season with oregano and lemon for a fresh, bright flavor.
Spicy Cajun Chicken and Vegetable Stew
Infuse your one pot meal with bold Cajun spices, bell peppers, okra, and tomatoes. Serve over rice or enjoy as a stew for a warming, spicy dinner.
Creamy Mushroom and Chicken One Pot
Perfect for mushroom lovers, this recipe combines chicken thighs, cremini mushrooms, garlic, and a splash of cream to create a luscious, comforting dish.
Each of these recipes follows the same simple principles: sauté, add veggies and broth, simmer, and enjoy. Feel free to explore and experiment to find your favorite version!
Conclusion
One pot chicken and vegetable recipes are a fantastic way to create nourishing, flavorful meals without the fuss of multiple pots and pans. They save time on prep and cleanup while delivering wholesome nutrition that satisfies both body and soul.
With just a handful of fresh ingredients and simple seasonings, you can make a variety of dishes that fit your lifestyle and taste preferences. Whether you choose a classic herb-infused version or spice it up with international flavors, these recipes are sure to become staples in your kitchen.
Don’t forget to explore other exciting recipes on our site, like the Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe or the hearty Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe, to keep your menu diverse and delicious. Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Chicken and Veg One Pot
Description: A hearty and healthy one pot meal combining tender chicken with fresh vegetables. Easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT35M
Total Time: PT50M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups baby spinach
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then brown on both sides.
- Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Stir in carrots, bell pepper, and zucchini; cook for 5 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and add thyme; bring to a simmer.
- Cover and cook for 25 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Add cherry tomatoes and spinach; cook for 5 more minutes.
- Adjust seasoning and serve warm.
Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 35 g | Fat: 15 g | Carbs: 20 g
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