Weeknight Dinner Recipes: Quick, Easy, and Delicious Meal!

Name: Weeknight Dinner Recipes: Quick, Easy, and Delicious Meal!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt, to taste; Pepper, to taste; Fresh basil, for garnish

June 27, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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We all know how hectic weeknights can get, right? After a long day, the last thing I want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That’s why I’m so excited to share this quick and flavorful weeknight dinner recipe with you! It features juicy sautéed chicken paired with vibrant seasonal vegetables that not only taste amazing but also come together in just about 30 minutes. Trust me, you won’t believe how easy it is to whip up a meal that’s both satisfying and healthy.

weeknight dinner recipes - detail 1

What I love most about this dish is the balance of colors and flavors — the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, the crispness of bell peppers, and the tenderness of zucchini all meld beautifully with the savory chicken. Plus, it’s versatile! You can easily swap in whatever veggies you have on hand, making it perfect for those last-minute meals. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple cooking technique, you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table without breaking a sweat. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make this delightful weeknight dinner together!

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delightful weeknight dinner. I’ve made sure to include precise measurements so you won’t miss a beat!

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
Fresh basil, for garnish

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. Trust me, it makes everything flow so much smoother! I like to slice my vegetables right before cooking to keep them fresh and vibrant. And don’t forget, you can always adjust the seasonings to your preference! Happy cooking!

How to Prepare Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to whip up your delicious weeknight dinner in no time.

First things first, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sizzle but not so hot that it smokes, so keep an eye on it!
While the oil is heating, season the 2 chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Make sure to coat them evenly — this is where the flavor starts!
Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 6–7 minutes on one side until it’s golden brown. Resist the urge to move it around too much; you want that nice sear!
Flip the chicken over and cook for another 6–7 minutes on the other side. It should be cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). When it’s done, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy!
In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, or it’ll turn bitter!
Next, add the sliced bell pepper, zucchini, and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for about 5–7 minutes until the veggies are tender but still vibrant. You want them to have a bit of crunch left!
Once the vegetables are cooked to your liking, return the sliced chicken to the skillet. Toss it all together so the chicken is coated with those delicious veggie juices.
Finally, plate the dish and sprinkle with fresh basil for a burst of flavor and color. And voilà! Your quick and flavorful weeknight dinner is ready to serve.

Enjoy the delightful colors and aromas as you dig in, and remember, cooking is all about having fun and making it your own. Bon appétit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This weeknight dinner recipe is a game changer! It’s not just about getting food on the table; it’s about enjoying a delicious meal that brings joy and satisfaction after a busy day. Here’s why I think you’ll absolutely adore it:

Quick and Easy

With just a 10-minute prep time and 20 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a mouthwatering dinner ready in about 30 minutes! Perfect for those busy evenings when you want something homemade but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
Minimal cleanup is another win! Since we’re using one skillet, you can spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.

Flavorful and Healthy

The balance of fresh, vibrant vegetables with the savory chicken creates a delightful medley of flavors. Each bite is bursting with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, the crunch of bell peppers, and the tenderness of zucchini, all perfectly seasoned!
It’s a healthy option packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a great choice for anyone looking to eat well without sacrificing taste. Plus, it’s low in fat, so you can feel good about what you’re serving!

Trust me, you’re going to love the way this recipe makes you feel — satisfied, nourished, and ready to tackle whatever comes next!

Tips for Success

To make sure your sautéed chicken and vegetables turn out perfectly every time, I’ve got some expert tips for you. These little nuggets of wisdom will elevate your weeknight dinner to a whole new level!

Prep Ahead: Take a few minutes to chop and measure all your ingredients before you start cooking. This not only saves time but also helps you stay organized in the kitchen. Trust me, it makes the cooking process so much smoother!
Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This way, you won’t have to worry about undercooking or drying it out.
Don’t Skimp on the Sear: When cooking the chicken, resist the urge to flip it too soon. Letting it sear properly on one side creates a flavorful crust that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Season Gradually: Start with a little salt and pepper, then taste as you go! You can always add more, but it’s tough to fix an over-seasoned dish. Plus, this allows the natural flavors of the veggies and chicken to shine through.
Experiment with Cooking Times: Every stovetop is a little different, so keep an eye on your chicken and veggies. If you prefer your vegetables a bit crunchier, feel free to adjust the cooking time to suit your taste. You want them tender but still vibrant!
Fresh Herbs Matter: Don’t skip the fresh basil at the end! It adds a burst of flavor and a lovely aroma that elevates the whole dish. You can also mix in other herbs like parsley or oregano for a different twist.
Let It Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite juicy and flavorful. No one wants a dry piece of chicken!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious and satisfying weeknight dinner that everyone will love. Happy cooking!

Variations

The beauty of this weeknight dinner recipe is its versatility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences, dietary needs, or whatever veggies you have lurking in your fridge. Here are some fun variations to consider:

Vegetarian Delight: If you want to make this dish vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh. Cube the tofu and sauté it until golden brown, then follow the same steps for adding the vegetables. You’ll still get that satisfying texture and flavor!
Protein-Packed Alternatives: Instead of chicken, try using shrimp or even sliced beef. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly! Shrimp cooks quickly, so add it to the skillet during the last few minutes of vegetable cooking for a delicious twist.
Seasonal Veggie Swap: Feel free to mix up the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Asparagus, broccoli, or even spinach can be great additions. Just remember to adjust the cooking times for different veggies to keep them at their best!
Herb Variations: Switch up the herbs to create new flavor profiles! Fresh thyme, rosemary, or cilantro can add a whole new depth of flavor. Experiment with different seasonings to find your perfect blend!
Spice It Up: For those who love a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños when cooking the vegetables. This will give your dish a nice kick and wake up those taste buds!
Grain Bowl Option: Turn this dish into a hearty grain bowl by serving the chicken and veggies over a bed of quinoa, brown rice, or farro. This adds a filling component and makes it even more nutritious!
One-Pan Wonder: If you want to keep it super simple, consider roasting the chicken and vegetables together on a sheet pan. Just toss everything with olive oil and seasonings, spread it out on a baking sheet, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes.

With these variations, you can keep this recipe fresh and exciting week after week. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this dish your own — after all, cooking is all about experimenting and enjoying the process!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

If you happen to have leftovers from this delicious weeknight dinner (which is rare in my house!), you’ll want to store them properly to maintain their flavor and texture. Here’s how to keep your sautéed chicken and veggies fresh for another meal:

Storing Leftovers: Allow the chicken and vegetables to cool to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation, which can make everything soggy. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: If you want to save leftovers for a later date, you can freeze them! Just pack the cooled chicken and veggies in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, and they’ll last for about 2-3 months. Be sure to label the container with the date so you can keep track of it.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, here’s how to reheat them without losing that lovely quality:

Thawing: If frozen, transfer the container to the fridge the night before to let it thaw slowly. This helps maintain the texture of the chicken and veggies. If you’re short on time, you can also use the microwave’s defrost setting.
Reheating on the Stovetop: For the best results, reheat the chicken and vegetables in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil or a little water to prevent sticking and keep everything moist. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
Microwave Option: If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat in the microwave. Place the chicken and veggies in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a lid or microwave-safe wrap (leaving a small vent), and heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. Just be careful not to overcook!

And there you have it — simple storage and reheating instructions to ensure your tasty weeknight dinner is just as delightful the second time around. Enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown for this vibrant weeknight dinner recipe. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. But it gives you a great idea of what you’re serving up!

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 500mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 40g

This dish not only fills you up but also provides a healthy balance of protein and fiber, making it a fantastic choice for a nutritious weeknight meal. Enjoy knowing that you’re fueling your body with wholesome ingredients!

FAQ Section

Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! The beauty of this weeknight dinner recipe is its versatility when it comes to vegetables. You can easily swap in whatever seasonal veggies you have on hand. Think about using asparagus in the spring, fresh green beans in the summer, or root vegetables like carrots and parsnips in the fall. Just keep in mind that different vegetables have different cooking times, so adjust accordingly to ensure they stay tender yet crisp. Don’t be afraid to get creative and mix things up!

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish is wonderfully flexible, and there are plenty of great side options to complement your sautéed chicken and vegetables. You could serve it over a fluffy bed of quinoa or brown rice for a heartier meal. A simple side salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette would add a refreshing crunch. If you’re in the mood for something warm, garlic bread or roasted potatoes can also make a delightful pairing. Whatever you choose, just know that this chicken and veggie combo is sure to shine on your dinner table!

How can I make this a vegetarian dish?

Going vegetarian with this recipe is super easy! Simply substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh for a protein-packed alternative. Cut the tofu into cubes and sauté it until it’s golden brown, just like you would with the chicken. You can also use chickpeas for an extra boost of flavor and texture. Feel free to keep all the same veggies and seasonings, as they will still complement the dish beautifully. This way, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying vegetarian meal that everyone can enjoy!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.