Easy 15-Minute Ranch Chicken and Vegetable Skillet

Imagine coming home after a long day, and within 15 minutes, you have a delicious, wholesome meal on the table. This Easy 15-Minute Ranch Chicken and Vegetable Skillet is not just quick to prepare; it’s bursting with flavor and packed with nutritious ingredients. With tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a zesty ranch dressing, this one-pan dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you simply want a fuss-free dinner. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe a must-have in your meal rotation!

Why It’s My Go-To

This Easy 15-Minute Ranch Chicken and Vegetable Skillet has quickly become my go-to recipe for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it ideal for those evenings when time is of the essence. Second, the use of ranch seasoning not only enhances the flavor of the chicken but also adds a creamy, herby touch to the vegetables. Lastly, it’s versatile; you can easily swap in your favorite veggies or adjust the recipe based on what you have at home. It’s a meal that satisfies, nourishes, and delights, all in under 15 minutes!

Your Shopping Guide

Before you get started, here’s what you’ll need to gather from the grocery store:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil – This will be your cooking fat; it adds richness and helps to brown the chicken.
• 1 ¼ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts – Diced into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
• 2 cups broccoli – Cut into bite-sized pieces; both florets and stalks work great!
• 1 cup zucchini – Diced into ¼-inch pieces; it adds a lovely texture.
• 1 packet Hidden Valley Original Ranch Salad Dressing & Seasoning Mix – The star ingredient that brings all the flavors together.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice – Freshly squeezed for a zesty kick.
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves – Add them in for a burst of color and nutrients; chop if necessary.

Gear Checklist

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following kitchen essentials on hand:

• Large skillet or frying pan – A good quality, non-stick pan works best for this recipe.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring and ensuring even cooking.
• Measuring spoons – To measure out your olive oil and lemon juice accurately.
• Knife and cutting board – For chopping your chicken and vegetables.

From Start to Finish: Easy 15-Minute Ranch Chicken and Vegetable Skillet

Ready to bring your skillet to life? Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Heat the skillet

Start by heating 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to warm up for about a minute until it shimmers.

Step 2: Cook the chicken

Add the diced chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. It should no longer be pink in the center.

Step 3: Add the vegetables

Once the chicken is cooked, add the broccoli and zucchini to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet still vibrant.

Step 4: Season with ranch

Sprinkle the Hidden Valley Original Ranch Salad Dressing & Seasoning Mix over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Add lemon juice and spinach

Pour in the 2 tablespoons of lemon juice and toss in the fresh spinach leaves. Cook for an additional minute or until the spinach is wilted and bright green.

Step 6: Serve and enjoy

Remove the skillet from the heat and serve your Easy 15-Minute Ranch Chicken and Vegetable Skillet warm. Enjoy it on its own or with some crusty bread or a side of rice for a complete meal.

International Equivalents

If you’re cooking from outside the United States, here are some equivalents to help you out:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil – Approximately 45 ml.
• 1 ¼ pounds chicken breasts – About 570 grams.
• 2 cups broccoli – Approximately 150 grams.
• 1 cup zucchini – About 130 grams.
• 1 packet ranch seasoning – Approximately 30 grams.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice – About 30 ml.
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves – Approximately 60 grams.

Author’s Commentary

This Easy 15-Minute Ranch Chicken and Vegetable Skillet is not just a recipe; it’s a lifesaver for those busy evenings. I love how it combines protein and vegetables in one dish, making dinner not only quick but also nutritious. Plus, if you have little ones, they love the ranch flavor, making it easier to get them to eat their veggies! Feel free to customize this dish; adding bell peppers or swapping out the veggies based on seasonal produce can make this meal even more delightful.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

If you have leftovers (though I doubt you will!), here’s how to store them:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: You can freeze this dish in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing.
• Reheat: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use frozen vegetables instead?

Absolutely! Frozen vegetables can work well; just add them to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking to ensure they don’t get overcooked.

What other proteins can I use?

Feel free to substitute chicken with diced turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! The ranch seasoning is typically dairy-free, but always check the label to make sure. You can also use a dairy-free yogurt as a substitute if you want a creamier texture.

What should I serve with this dish?

This dish is hearty enough to serve on its own, but you can pair it with brown rice, quinoa, or a side salad for a more complete meal.

Cook This Next

If you enjoyed this Easy 15-Minute Ranch Chicken and Vegetable Skillet, you might also like:

• Margherita Pizza
• Easy Pasta Salad
• Easy Chickpea Curry

In Closing

This Easy 15-Minute Ranch Chicken and Vegetable Skillet is a fantastic addition to your weeknight dinner lineup. It’s a meal that brings together fresh ingredients, robust flavors, and the ease of a one-pan dish. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick cooking time, you can enjoy a nourishing and satisfying dinner that the whole family will love. So, grab your skillet and give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!