Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen every night, only to end up with a mediocre meal? Do you wish you had more time for yourself and your loved ones, rather than being stuck in front of the stove? If so, then healthy skillet recipes are just what you need! Not only do they offer a quick and easy solution to a busy weeknight dinner, but they’re also incredibly nutritious and delicious.
From classic comfort food to international-inspired dishes, there’s something for everyone in this list of 18 mouth-watering skillet recipes. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or simply looking for some inspiration for your next meal, we’ve got you covered. So grab your favorite skillet (we like cast-iron or stainless steel) and let’s get cooking!
Garlic Herb Chicken Skillet
A flavorful and satisfying one-pan meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables and herbs.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Quinoa and Black Bean Skillet
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot meal that combines the nutty goodness of quinoa with the earthy taste of black beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: avocado, sour cream, or salsa for topping
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced bell pepper and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes more.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the quinoa and water or broth to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until quinoa is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
6. Stir in the black beans and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with your choice of avocado, sour cream, or salsa.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Shrimp Skillet
Experience the bold flavors of the Mediterranean in this quick and easy shrimp skillet recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Feta cheese crumbles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in cherry tomatoes, olives, parsley, and oregano. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using feta cheese, sprinkle on top and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Potato and Kale Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of kale, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 bunch of kale, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes or until they start to brown.
5. Add the chopped kale to the skillet and stir until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. If desired, add the chicken broth and stir to combine.
8. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Salmon Skillet
A bright and citrusy twist on traditional salmon recipes, this skillet dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the salmon fillets, skin side up (if they have skin). Cook for 2-3 minutes or until browned.
4. Flip the salmon and add the lemon juice, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through.
6. Remove from the oven and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vegetable Stir-Fry Skillet
Quick and flavorful, this vegetable stir-fry skillet is a perfect solution for a weeknight dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes. With a variety of colorful vegetables and savory seasonings, you’ll love the combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 small zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the red bell pepper and zucchini; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the broccoli, soy sauce, black pepper, and salt to taste.
5. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Spinach Skillet
Quick and flavorful, this skillet dish combines juicy turkey breast with wilted spinach and crispy potatoes for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add turkey and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove turkey from skillet and set aside. Add potatoes, onion, and garlic to skillet; cook for 5-7 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
5. Return turkey to skillet and stir to combine with spinach mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cauliflower Rice Skillet with Chickpeas
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot meal that’s perfect for a quick dinner or lunch. This recipe combines the crunch of roasted cauliflower “rice” with the creaminess of chickpeas, all in one skillet.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add chickpeas, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Add cauliflower “rice” to the skillet, stirring to distribute evenly.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and lightly browned.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zucchini Noodle Skillet with Pesto
A quick and flavorful meal that combines the goodness of zucchini noodles, pesto, and chicken breast. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium zucchini
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken breast and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Spiralize the zucchini into noodles and add to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until tender.
5. Stir in the pesto sauce and combine with the zucchini noodles.
6. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asian-Inspired Tofu Skillet
A flavorful and nutritious one-pan meal that combines the savory taste of tofu with the bold flavors of Asian-inspired spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the bell peppers; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the tofu, ginger, soy sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Blackened Tilapia Skillet
This recipe brings together the bold flavors of blackening seasoning and spicy heat, all in one quick and easy skillet meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together blackening seasoning and cayenne pepper.
3. Season tilapia fillets with the spice mixture, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add bell pepper to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Place tilapia fillets in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Eggplant and Tomato Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines the flavors of roasted eggplant, juicy tomatoes, and crispy herbs for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh oregano leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the eggplant slices in batches, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side or until tender. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet, cooking for 5-7 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
5. Stir in the chopped oregano leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Return the eggplant slices to the skillet, tossing to combine with the tomato mixture.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the top is lightly browned.
8. Remove from oven and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Fajita Skillet
A flavorful and easy-to-make skillet recipe that combines tender chicken, crunchy bell peppers, and savory spices for a delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the bell peppers and onion to the skillet; cook until tender, about 8 minutes.
5. Add the garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika to the skillet; cook for 1 minute.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet; stir to combine with the vegetables and spices.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
8. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lentil and Vegetable Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines the comfort of lentils with a medley of sautéed vegetables, all in one convenient pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the bell pepper and zucchini; cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until tender.
4. Stir in the lentils, diced tomatoes, water or broth, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Broccoli and Cheddar Skillet
A delicious one-pan meal that combines the simplicity of a skillet with the flavor of broccoli and cheddar.
Ingredients:
• 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the broccoli florets and cook until tender, about 5-6 minutes.
6. Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the broccoli.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from the oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Avocado and Egg Skillet
A flavorful breakfast skillet that combines the creaminess of avocado with the richness of scrambled eggs.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro or red pepper flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium-sized cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
2. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until well-beaten. Pour the eggs into the skillet and scramble until they’re almost set.
3. Add the diced avocado to one half of the skillet and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, allowing it to warm slightly.
4. Use a spatula to gently fold the cooked eggs over the avocado.
5. Cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, until the eggs are fully set and the avocado is heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped cilantro or red pepper flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Coconut Curry Chicken Skillet
Add a flavorful twist to your weeknight dinner with this easy and aromatic Coconut Curry Chicken Skillet recipe. With the warmth of coconut milk, the richness of curry powder, and the simplicity of a one-pot meal, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, onions, and garlic; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and salt. Cook 1 minute.
4. Pour in coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low; let cook, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Add bell peppers; continue cooking until tender, about 5 minutes.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bell Pepper and Quinoa Skillet
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot meal that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the nutty goodness of quinoa.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the bell peppers and cook until tender, about 7-8 minutes.
4. Stir in the cumin and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions using the water or broth.
6. Once the quinoa is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add it to the skillet with the bell peppers and onion mixture.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a culinary revolution! In this article, we’ve gathered 18 mouthwatering and nutritious skillet recipes to elevate your busy weeknights. From protein-packed options like Garlic Herb Chicken Skillet and Lemon Garlic Salmon Skillet, to vegetarian and vegan delights such as Sweet Potato and Kale Skillet and Asian-Inspired Tofu Skillet, there’s something for everyone. These one-pot wonders are quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making them perfect for a family dinner or solo meal. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for healthy inspiration, these recipes will become your new go-to’s.