Busy weeknights can be a culinary nightmare, but fear not! With these 18 flavorful and healthy skillet recipes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. From savory shrimp and quinoa to sweet and spicy pineapple chicken, we’ve got a recipe for every taste bud and dietary preference.
Skillets are a cook’s best friend – they’re easy to use, clean up quickly, and can be used to make everything from breakfast to dinner. And the best part? They’re perfect for meal prep, so you can enjoy your favorite dishes all week long without any fuss. So go ahead, get creative, and start cooking with these tasty and nutritious skillet recipes!
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Quinoa Skillet
This recipe combines succulent shrimp with nutty quinoa and flavorful garlic butter, all cooked to perfection in one skillet. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the quinoa and cook, stirring frequently, until lightly toasted, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Stir in the butter until melted and well combined with the quinoa and shrimp.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with parsley or cilantro if desired.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken with Vegetables
One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken with Vegetables
A flavorful and effortless one-pan wonder, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 lemon, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and onions)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium and add garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for 1 minute.
- Add lemon juice, mixed vegetables, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Pour in any juices released from the chicken while it rested, then add the chicken back into the pan.
- Cook until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender, about 10-12 minutes total.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Spicy Black Bean and Sweet Potato Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the bold flavors of spicy black beans, onions, and bell peppers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 large bell peppers, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, and/or chopped cilantro for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and bell peppers; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add black beans and sweet potatoes to the skillet; stir to combine.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with optional ingredients if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Chickpea and Spinach Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines the creaminess of chickpeas with the earthy flavor of spinach, all wrapped up in a flavorful Mediterranean-inspired package.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Feta cheese crumbles (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. Stir in the cumin and cook for 30 seconds.
5. Add the chickpeas, red bell pepper, and spinach leaves. Cook until the spinach has wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with crumbled feta cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Tofu and Broccoli Stir-Fry Skillet
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that combines the savory taste of teriyaki tofu with the crunch of broccoli, all cooked to perfection in one skillet.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon teriyaki sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the broccoli and cook until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and teriyaki sauce to the skillet and stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Return the tofu to the skillet and stir-fry everything together until well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Zucchini Skillet with Feta Cheese
A flavorful and healthy one-pan meal that combines the savory taste of turkey, the sweetness of zucchini, and the tanginess of feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the turkey and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the sliced zucchinis to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Return the turkey to the skillet and stir to combine with the zucchini mixture.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the turkey is cooked through.
7. Sprinkle feta cheese over the top and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Lentil and Cauliflower Skillet
A flavorful and nutritious skillet dish that combines the comforting warmth of lentils with the subtle sweetness of cauliflower, all infused with the aromatic spices of Morocco.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, 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 lentils, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the cauliflower and water or broth; bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, until the lentils are tender and the cauliflower is tender, about 20-25 minutes.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Avocado and Egg Breakfast Skillet
A delicious and nutritious breakfast option that combines creamy avocado with fluffy eggs, all cooked to perfection in a sizzling skillet.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter
Instructions:
1. Heat a medium-sized skillet over medium heat.
2. Add 1-2 teaspoons of cooking oil or butter to the skillet.
3. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until they’re cooked through, breaking up any large curds with a spatula.
4. Add the diced onion, garlic, and cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in the diced avocado and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the breakfast skillet hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Thai Peanut Chicken and Rice Skillet
A flavorful one-pot wonder that combines succulent chicken, savory rice, and creamy peanut sauce – a perfect meal for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or peanut oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp of cooking 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. In the same skillet, add the mixed bell peppers and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add cooked rice to the skillet and stir-fry until well combined with the peanut sauce.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and cook until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Chicken Skillet
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (or 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar + 1 tablespoon honey)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
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 to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the Brussels sprouts to the skillet, cut side down, in a single layer. Cook for 5 minutes, until caramelized.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic glaze (or vinegar and honey) and season with salt and pepper.
6. Pour the glaze over the Brussels sprouts and chicken. Stir to combine.
7. Return the chicken to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until cooked through.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quinoa and Kale Skillet with Tahini Dressing
This hearty skillet dish combines nutritious quinoa and kale with a creamy tahini dressing, making it a perfect weeknight meal or brunch option. The combination of textures and flavors will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced (for dressing)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
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 and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add kale to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, and minced garlic (for dressing).
6. Combine cooked quinoa, kale mixture, and tahini dressing in the skillet. Toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Street Corn and Black Bean Skillet
This vibrant skillet combines the flavors of Mexico’s famous street corn with the hearty warmth of black beans, making for a deliciously easy meal that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen black beans, thawed
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 ears corn, husked and silked
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, bell peppers, and jalapeño; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Add black beans and corn; stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, topped with queso fresco and cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Pesto Salmon and Asparagus Skillet
This flavorful skillet recipe combines the richness of salmon with the brightness of pesto, all wrapped up in a deliciously easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Line a large skillet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place the salmon fillets in the skillet, leaving some space between each.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the salmon, then spoon the pesto evenly over each fillet.
5. Arrange the asparagus spears around the salmon, slightly overlapping them.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
8. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet
Get ready for a flavorful one-pot meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch. This Cajun-inspired skillet combines succulent shrimp, spicy sausage, and savory vegetables in a rich and tangy tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through (about 5 minutes).
3. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender (about 5 minutes).
4. Add the shrimp, diced tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low; simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Garnish with parsley or scallions and serve hot over rice or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Greek Style Stuffed Pepper Skillet
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this skillet recipe combines the best of Greek cuisine with the convenience of a one-pot meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into rings
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add the sliced bell peppers, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the peppers are tender.
6. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Chicken Skillet
This flavorful one-pot wonder combines juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and spicy peppers, all cooked to perfection in a savory sauce. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or spray as needed
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet.
2. In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add pineapple chunks, red bell pepper, honey, soy sauce, cumin, and cayenne pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Return chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sweet and spicy mixture.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Ratatouille Inspired Vegetable Skillet
Savor the flavors of Provence with this colorful and nutritious vegetable skillet, inspired by the classic French dish ratatouille. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 zucchinis, sliced
– 1 eggplant, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the bell peppers, zucchinis, and eggplant; cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops with Spinach Skillet
Brighten up your dinner table with this vibrant and flavorful skillet dish, featuring succulent scallops smothered in a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce, served atop a bed of wilted spinach.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season scallops with salt and pepper.
3. Add butter to the skillet; once melted, add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add lemon juice and stir to combine.
5. Add scallops to the skillet; sear for 2-3 minutes per side or until cooked through.
6. Remove scallops from skillet; set aside.
7. Stir in spinach leaves; wilt until tender.
8. Serve scallops atop spinach, spooning some of the lemon butter sauce over the top.
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen on busy weeknights? Look no further! This collection of 18 flavorful and healthy skillet recipes has got you covered. From seafood options like Garlic Butter Shrimp and Quinoa Skillet to vegetarian delights like Spicy Black Bean and Sweet Potato Skillet, there’s something for everyone. Each recipe is quick, easy, and packed with nutritious ingredients. Whether you’re in the mood for a protein-packed breakfast or a hearty dinner, these skillet recipes will become your new go-to solution for busy weeknights.
