One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken & Veggies – A Quick & Flavorful Dinner

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a meal that comes together effortlessly in just one pan. Whether you’re short on time, looking for a healthy dinner, or simply want to avoid a sink full of dishes, One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken & Veggies is the perfect solution. This dish combines juicy, golden-seared chicken with tender, flavorful vegetables, all coated in a rich, garlicky butter sauce that brings everything together. It’s quick, packed with protein and nutrients, and easy to customize based on what you have in your kitchen.

I’ve always loved meals that are big on flavor but light on effort, and this garlic butter chicken skillet has become one of my go-to weeknight dinners. It’s the kind of dish that doesn’t require fancy ingredients, yet every bite tastes like something special. The buttery garlic sauce is the real star here, infusing the chicken and veggies with deep, savory goodness that makes this meal feel comforting yet fresh. Whether you want to serve it over rice, toss it with pasta, or enjoy it on its own, this recipe is a keeper for anyone who loves quick, delicious, and wholesome meals.

garlic butter chicken with rice and veggies and a fork

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One pan, easy cleanup – A complete meal with minimal dishes.
Garlic butter magic – A rich, flavorful sauce that ties everything together.
Healthy and well-balanced – High in protein, loaded with veggies, and customizable to your dietary needs.
Perfect with rice, pasta, or potatoes – A meal that pairs beautifully with different sides.
Flexible ingredients – Works with fresh or frozen chicken and vegetables.

The Secret to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken & Veggies

One of the biggest challenges with a one-pan meal is making sure that everything cooks evenly. Since chicken takes longer to cook than most vegetables, it’s important to layer the cooking process correctly. First, the chicken needs to develop a beautiful golden crust, locking in juices while adding depth of flavor. The vegetables go in next, absorbing all those delicious pan drippings before getting tossed in that irresistible garlic butter sauce. The result? A well-balanced meal with the perfect texture and flavor in every bite.

Key Technique	Why It Matters
Searing the Chicken First	Locks in moisture and develops flavor
Cooking Vegetables Separately	Prevents overcooking and keeps them crisp
Garlic Butter Sauce at the End	Ensures the best flavor absorption
Using Fresh & Frozen Ingredients	Makes the recipe flexible and convenient

How to Make the Best One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken & Veggies

1. Choose Your Protein

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for this recipe, depending on your preference. Chicken thighs provide a richer, juicier bite, while chicken breasts offer a leaner option. If using frozen chicken, be sure to thaw it completely before cooking or increase the cook time accordingly.

2. Pick Your Veggies

The best vegetables for this dish are ones that cook quickly but hold their texture well. Some great options include zucchini, bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, asparagus, and green beans. If using frozen vegetables, add them later in the cooking process to prevent them from becoming too soft.

A close-up shot of seasoned chicken pieces sizzling in a hot pan, developing a golden-brown crust. The background is softly blurred, with a plate of raw vegetables waiting to be added next.

3. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

This sauce is what makes the dish so incredible. Melt 3 tablespoons butter in a pan and sauté 4 cloves minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper for an extra layer of flavor.

4. Sear the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken pieces and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown. Once cooked, remove and set aside to rest.

5. Cook the Vegetables

In the same pan, add more butter and olive oil if needed. Toss in your chopped vegetables and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning as needed.

6. Combine Everything & Finish with Garlic Butter

Return the chicken to the pan, pour in the garlic butter sauce, and toss everything together. Let it cook for another 2 minutes, ensuring everything is well coated and heated through.

A skillet filled with fresh, colorful vegetables sautéing in garlic butter, with a wooden spatula tossing them gently. The vibrant greens, reds, and oranges contrast beautifully against the rich, golden pan juices.

What to Serve with Garlic Butter Chicken & Veggies?

This dish is delicious on its own, but it pairs beautifully with:

Steamed rice or quinoa – Perfect for soaking up the buttery garlic sauce.
Mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes – A hearty and comforting addition.
Pasta or orzo – Toss everything together for an easy pasta dish.
Crusty bread – Ideal for scooping up every last drop of sauce.

Recipe Variations

Variation	How to Make It
One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken & Veggies and Rice	Stir in 1 cup cooked rice at the end to make it a complete meal.
Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken	Add ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken	Sprinkle with grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella before serving.
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Veggies	Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream for a richer sauce.

Classic Chicken & Dumplings – For another cozy chicken dinner, this creamy, hearty dish is a must-try!

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze in meal-sized portions for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight and reheat on the stove.
Meal Prep: Divide into meal prep containers with rice, quinoa, or pasta for easy grab-and-go lunches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes! Just be sure to thaw it before cooking for even results. If cooking from frozen, extend the cook time by a few minutes.

Q: What vegetables work best?
A: Zucchini, bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and green beans work great. Frozen vegetables should be added towards the end to avoid overcooking.

Q: Can I use a different protein?
A: Absolutely! Shrimp, salmon, or tofu are great alternatives. Adjust cook times accordingly.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes! Simply swap butter for olive oil or dairy-free butter alternatives.

Save This Recipe for Later

A steaming skillet filled with golden-seared chicken, bright vegetables, and glistening garlic butter sauce, captured at an angle that highlights the rich textures and deep flavors of the dish. A wooden spoon is stirring the mixture, with steam rising from the pan. The background is softly blurred for a home-cooked, inviting aesthetic.

This One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken & Veggies is the answer to quick, easy, and flavorful dinners. Whether you serve it over rice, with pasta, or on its own, it’s a meal that satisfies every time. Save this recipe to your “Easy Dinners” board on Pinterest so you can make it anytime you need a stress-free, delicious meal!