Creamy Chicken & Veg Skillet
When you need something comforting but not complicated, this creamy chicken and vegetable skillet delivers. It’s a one-pan meal that brings together tender seared chicken, colorful vegetables, garlic, herbs, and a silky cream sauce that pulls everything together. It feels hearty enough for a family dinner but simple enough for a busy weeknight.
The combination of broccoli, mushrooms, and sweet peppers gives you texture and color, while thyme adds a subtle earthy note. Serve it over rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or enjoy it as a low-carb option on its own.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 40–45 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
4 chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup broccoli, mushrooms, red & yellow pepper mix (chopped)
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup cream (or coconut milk)
½ cup chicken broth
1 tsp thyme
Salt & pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the chicken.
Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and half the thyme.
Heat the skillet.
Place a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
Sear the chicken.
Cook chicken breasts for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside. They do not need to be fully cooked yet.
Sauté the garlic.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Cook the vegetables.
Add broccoli, mushrooms, and peppers. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until slightly tender but still vibrant.
Deglaze the pan.
Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Add the cream.
Stir in the cream (or coconut milk) and remaining thyme. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Return the chicken.
Place chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning sauce over them.
Simmer until done.
Cover and cook for 8–10 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) and sauce thickens.
Garnish and serve.
Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top and serve warm.
Tips
Pound thick chicken breasts slightly for even cooking.
Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing; cook in batches if needed.
Use heavy cream for a richer sauce or light cream for fewer calories.
Coconut milk adds a subtle sweetness and dairy-free option.
Keep vegetables slightly crisp for better texture.
Let the sauce simmer gently, not boil, to prevent curdling.
Taste and adjust salt at the end since broth levels vary.
Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness before serving.
If sauce is too thin, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
Rest the chicken 5 minutes before serving for juicier results.
Variations
Add spinach during the last few minutes for extra greens.
Stir in grated Parmesan for a cheesy finish.
Use Italian seasoning instead of thyme for a different herb profile.
Add red chili flakes for a subtle kick.
Swap broccoli for asparagus or green beans.
Slice chicken before returning to the pan for faster cooking.
Add sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.
Use half-and-half instead of cream for a lighter version.
Stir in Dijon mustard for a slight tang.
Turn it into a pasta dish by tossing with cooked fettuccine.
Q&A
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless thighs work well and stay very juicy.
Is coconut milk very noticeable?
It adds mild sweetness but blends nicely with garlic and thyme.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, store in the fridge up to 3 days.
How do I reheat it?
Warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, but cream-based sauces may separate slightly after thawing.
What sides go best?
Rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or crusty bread.
How do I thicken the sauce more?
Simmer longer uncovered or add a small cornstarch slurry.
Can I make it low-carb?
It already is low in carbs. Serve without grains for a keto-friendly option.
Why is my chicken dry?
It may be overcooked. Use a thermometer to check doneness.
Can I double the vegetables?
Absolutely. Just adjust seasoning slightly.
Nutrition
(Approximate per serving)
Calories: 420–500 kcal
Protein: 40–45 g
Carbohydrates: 8–12 g
Fat: 28–32 g
Fiber: 2–3 g
Sodium: Varies depending on broth used
Values may vary depending on cream choice and portion size.
Conclusion
Creamy Chicken & Veg Skillet is one of those reliable recipes that feels comforting without being heavy. The seared chicken locks in flavor, the vegetables add freshness and color, and the creamy garlic thyme sauce brings everything together beautifully.
It’s flexible, family-friendly, and easy to adapt to what you have on hand. Whether you serve it over rice for a hearty meal or keep it simple and low-carb, this one-pan dish is bound to become part of your regular dinner rotation.