Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen every night, only to end up with a messy kitchen and a tired body? Do you wish you had more time to focus on your family, friends, or personal interests? Look no further! We’ve got just the solution for you: 20 delicious healthy skillet recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights.
Skillets are the ultimate time-saving tool in the kitchen. They allow you to cook a complete meal in one pan, using minimal ingredients and effort. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile – whether you’re in the mood for something classic like chicken and vegetables or something more exotic like Moroccan-spiced chickpeas, there’s a skillet recipe out there for you.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, showcasing 20 mouth-watering skillet recipes that are not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients. From hearty one-pot meals to quick and flavorful stir-fries, these recipes are sure to become your new go-to solutions for busy weeknights.
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Quinoa Skillet
This flavorful skillet dish combines succulent shrimp, nutty quinoa, and aromatic garlic butter for a quick and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
3. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add garlic, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add butter to skillet and stir until melted. Stir in cooked quinoa and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Return shrimp to skillet and toss to combine with quinoa mixture. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken with Vegetables
A bright and flavorful one-pan dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines juicy chicken, tender vegetables, and a zesty lemon herb sauce in just one pan!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan.
4. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini to pan. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
5. Stir in thyme, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Return chicken to pan.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the pan and transfer to the oven.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and sauce has thickened.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Black Bean and Sweet Potato Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the spicy kick of black beans, all wrapped up in a flavorful and nutritious meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sweet potato and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until slightly softened.
4. Stir in the black beans, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Chickpea and Spinach Skillet
Mediterranean Chickpea and Spinach Skillet Recipe
A flavorful and nutritious one-pan meal, this Mediterranean Chickpea and Spinach Skillet combines the comforting warmth of chickpeas with the vibrant freshness of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the chickpeas, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the chickpeas are heated through.
6. Add the fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and stir until wilted.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, topped with crumbled feta cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Salmon with Broccoli and Rice
This classic Asian-inspired dish combines the flavors of sweet teriyaki sauce, crispy salmon, and tender broccoli, served over fluffy white rice. With minimal prep time and simple cooking steps, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
4. Drizzle teriyaki sauce over the salmon, making sure each piece is coated.
5. Toss broccoli florets in vegetable oil and spread evenly on a separate baking sheet.
6. Bake salmon for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve with steamed broccoli and white rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Zucchini Skillet with Feta Cheese
A flavorful and nutritious one-pan wonder that combines the savory taste of turkey, the freshness of zucchini, and the tanginess of feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, zucchini, and parsley; cook, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the feta cheese until melted and well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegan Lentil and Kale Skillet with Tahini Drizzle
This hearty skillet dish combines the comforting warmth of lentils and kale with the creamy richness of tahini, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and discarded, leaves coarsely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, lentils, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the kale and stir to combine. Cook until the kale is wilted, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the tahini, lemon juice, and water. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Chicken and Orzo Skillet with Olives
A flavorful and hearty one-pot dish that combines the essence of Greece: juicy chicken, tender orzo, and savory olives. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and parsley)
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the orzo pasta and cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the chicken back to the skillet, along with the mixed greens and olives. Stir to combine and cook until the greens have wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Eggplant and Chickpea Harissa Skillet
This North African-inspired skillet combines the creamy richness of eggplant with the comforting warmth of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a spicy harissa sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup harissa sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
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 eggplant slices in batches, cooking until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
4. Remove the cooked eggplant from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium and add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and harissa sauce. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Add the chickpeas and stir to combine.
7. Return the cooked eggplant to the skillet and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Chicken and Asparagus Skillet
A flavorful and healthy one-pan meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch. This recipe combines the richness of pesto with the tenderness of chicken and the crunch of asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the pesto and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the asparagus to the skillet and cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quinoa-Stuffed Bell Pepper Skillet
This vibrant skillet dish is a flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers. Quinoa and savory vegetables add texture and depth to the sweet bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers, removing seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in cooked quinoa, cumin, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mexican Cauliflower Rice Skillet with Avocado
This recipe combines the flavors of Mexico with the nutritious benefits of cauliflower rice, all in one delicious and easy-to-make skillet. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Pulse cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add bell pepper and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add cumin and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in cauliflower “rice” and diced tomatoes. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until cauliflower is tender.
6. Serve hot, topped with sliced avocado and your choice of optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Chicken Skillet
This hearty skillet dinner combines tender chicken, caramelized Brussels sprouts, and a tangy balsamic glaze for a flavorful and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet.
4. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add Brussels sprouts and cook until caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.
6. Stir in balsamic vinegar and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer.
7. Return chicken to skillet and stir to coat with glaze.
8. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes.
Coconut Curry Tofu and Vegetable Skillet
A flavorful and nutritious skillet dish that combines the richness of coconut curry with the tenderness of tofu and a variety of colorful vegetables. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 teaspoons curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and carrot to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the coconut milk and curry powder. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return the tofu to the skillet and stir to coat with the curry sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Chickpea and Tomato Skillet
Moroccan Spiced Chickpea and Tomato Skillet
This flavorful skillet dish combines the warmth of Moroccan spices with the simplicity of chickpeas and fresh tomatoes, perfect for a quick and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz)
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cinnamon. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors are fragrant and the tomatoes start to release their juices.
3. Add the chickpeas and stir to combine with the tomato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the chickpeas are coated in the spiced tomato sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Healthy Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Skillet
A nutrient-packed and flavorful stir-fry that’s ready in under 20 minutes. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the garlic and broccoli. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return the beef to the skillet and stir in soy sauce and honey. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Scallops with Spinach Skillet
Lemon Garlic Scallops with Spinach Skillet Recipe
This recipe combines the bright flavors of lemon and garlic with the tender sweetness of scallops, all wrapped up in a vibrant spinach skillet. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 bunch fresh spinach, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the scallops and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
4. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside.
5. Pour in the lemon juice and stir to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any browned bits.
6. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
7. Return the scallops to the skillet and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Chicken Skillet
This skillet dish combines the sweetness of pineapple with a kick of spice, all in one convenient and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, sliced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of cooking spray or oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. Add remaining ingredients to the skillet, including pineapple, bell pepper, brown sugar, soy sauce, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Return chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the sweet and spicy mixture.
6. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ratatouille-Inspired Vegetable Skillet
This flavorful vegetable skillet is inspired by the classic Provençal dish Ratatouille, but with a quick and easy twist. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the sliced bell peppers and zucchinis; cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the diced tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 10-15 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Southwest Quinoa and Black Bean Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the creamy texture of black beans, all wrapped up in a flavorful Southwestern-inspired package. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro for topping
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups water.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, red bell pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in black beans and cooked quinoa. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with sour cream, shredded cheese, and cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cook up some delicious and healthy meals with these 20 skillet recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From seafood options like Garlic Butter Shrimp and Quinoa Skillet and Teriyaki Salmon with Broccoli and Rice, to vegetarian choices like Spicy Black Bean and Sweet Potato Skillet and Vegan Lentil and Kale Skillet, there’s something for everyone. Also featured are chicken and turkey dishes, as well as meatless options like Pesto Chicken and Asparagus Skillet and Coconut Curry Tofu and Vegetable Skillet. These easy-to-make recipes are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
