Healthy Mediterranean Chicken & Peppers Skillet
This Healthy Mediterranean Chicken & Peppers Skillet is proof that simple ingredients can create an incredible dinner. Juicy chicken breast, colorful bell peppers, garlic, herbs, and a light balsamic glaze come together in one pan for a meal that's fresh, flavorful, and perfect for busy evenings.
Recipe
Healthy Mediterranean Chicken & Peppers Skillet
Tender chicken breast is sautéed with colorful bell peppers, garlic, herbs, and a light balsamic glaze, then finished with fresh basil and shaved Parmesan. This simple one-pan dinner is packed with flavor and comes together in about 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 small shallot, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp shaved Parmesan cheese
- Breadsticks or whole grain bread, optional for serving
Instructions
- Season the chicken with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until golden brown and nearly cooked through.
- Add the bell peppers and shallot. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until slightly tender.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Whisk together the balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard, then pour into the skillet.
- Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce lightly coats the chicken.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and garnish with basil leaves and shaved Parmesan.
- Serve immediately with whole grain bread, brown rice, or roasted vegetables.
Equipment
- Large nonstick skillet
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Notes
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet so the chicken browns instead of steams.
- Fresh basil should be added just before serving.
- Use freshly shaved Parmesan for the best flavor.
- A splash of fresh lemon juice can brighten the finished dish.
- This recipe pairs well with roasted asparagus or quinoa.
Nutrition Estimate
- Calories
- 338
- Protein
- 43g
- Carbohydrates
- 10g
- Fat
- 14g
- Fiber
- 2g
- Sugar
- 5g
- Sodium
- 365mg
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredient brands, preparation methods, and portion sizes. Values are not exact unless calculated from a verified nutrition database.
Why You'll Love This
- Ready in about 30 minutes.
- High in lean protein.
- One pan means easy cleanup.
- Packed with colorful vegetables.
- Naturally low in carbohydrates.
- Perfect for meal prep.
Ingredient Tips
- Cut the chicken into evenly sized cubes so it cooks consistently.
- Use fresh basil instead of dried for the garnish.
- Bell peppers add natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Freshly shaved Parmesan melts beautifully over the warm chicken.
- Good-quality balsamic vinegar makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
Tips
- Cook the chicken in a single layer for the best browning.
- Don't overcook the peppers—they should remain slightly crisp.
- Let the chicken rest for a minute before serving.
- Taste the sauce before serving and adjust with extra balsamic if desired.
- Garnish generously with fresh basil for a restaurant-quality presentation.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Freeze for up to 2 months if desired.
Variations
- Add mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
- Serve over brown rice or quinoa.
- Add zucchini or asparagus.
- Replace chicken with turkey breast.
- Use mozzarella pearls instead of Parmesan for a different finish.
Substitutions
- Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- Replace shallots with sweet onion.
- Swap balsamic vinegar for red wine vinegar and a teaspoon of honey.
- Use Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan.
- Replace basil with fresh oregano.
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. It reheats well and is excellent for meal prep lunches.
What can I serve with this dish?
Brown rice, quinoa, roasted potatoes, whole wheat pasta, or roasted vegetables all pair well.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Absolutely. Boneless skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully and remain very juicy.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use a certified gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make the recipe gluten-free.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes. Zucchini, mushrooms, spinach, asparagus, or broccoli all work well in this skillet.
If you're looking for a quick dinner that's healthy without sacrificing flavor, this Mediterranean Chicken & Peppers Skillet is a recipe you'll make again and again. Fresh herbs, juicy chicken, colorful vegetables, and a light balsamic glaze make every bite satisfying.
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