10 Delicious One Skillet Dinners for Easy Weeknight Meals

If you’re looking to simplify your dinner routine without sacrificing flavor, One Skillet Dinners have got you covered. These recipes are designed to be fuss-free, requiring minimal cleanup while still delivering hearty and tasty meals that the whole family will enjoy. From savory stir-fries to comforting casseroles, these one-pan dishes will make weeknight cooking a breeze. Dive in and discover how easy and satisfying cooking can be!

1. One-Pan Lemon Garlic Pasta

One-Pan Lemon Garlic Pasta is a delightful dish that perfectly balances zingy lemon flavors with the comforting richness of garlic. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also requires minimal cleanup, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

The bright and fresh taste of lemon pairs beautifully with the savory garlic and herbs, creating a light yet satisfying meal. This dish is simple enough for any home cook and can be adapted to include your favorite proteins or veggies. Enjoy a burst of sunshine on your plate with every bite!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add Broth and Pasta: Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, stirring occasionally.
3. Finish the Dish: Once the pasta is cooked, remove from heat. Stir in lemon juice, zest, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your meal!

2. Skillet Chicken Fajitas

Skillet chicken fajitas bring a burst of flavor and color to your dinner table. Tender chicken strips, vibrant bell peppers, and zesty onions come together in one pan for a meal that’s as simple as it is satisfying. The combination of spices gives it a nice kick, while the sautéed veggies add a sweet crunch that balances the dish.

Making fajitas in a skillet is not only quick, but it also means less cleanup! Just toss everything together in one pan, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 30 minutes. Serve it with warm tortillas, and let everyone build their own fajitas for a fun, interactive dining experience.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortillas, for serving
• Cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced chicken and season with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the sliced bell pepper and onion to the skillet. Stir occasionally and cook until the veggies are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Once everything is cooked, remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro.
4. Serve with warm tortillas, letting everyone fill their own fajitas with the chicken and veggie mixture.

3. One-Pan Creamy Tuscan Chicken

This One-Pan Creamy Tuscan Chicken is a delightful combination of flavors that transports you straight to Italy. The tender chicken breasts are enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce, complemented by sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. It’s not only tasty but also easy to whip up, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.

 

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
3. Stir in the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and spinach. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Add the chicken back to the skillet and coat it with the creamy sauce. Heat everything together for another 2 minutes.
5. Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy!

 

4. One Skillet Beef And Broccoli

One Skillet Beef and Broccoli is a delightful dish that combines tender beef with crisp broccoli in a savory sauce. The flavors are rich and satisfying, making it a delicious meal that’s easy to whip up. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick but still packed with flavor.

This dish is all about convenience and taste. With everything cooked in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze. The tender beef absorbs the sauce beautifully, while the broccoli adds a fresh crunch. Serve it over rice or noodles for a filling, comforting meal that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the beef: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch. Add the sliced beef, mixing well to coat. Let it marinate for 15-30 minutes.
2. Cook the beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and cook for about 3-4 minutes until browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the broccoli: In the same skillet, add a splash of beef broth and the broccoli florets. Stir-fry for about 3-5 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still crisp.
4. Combine: Return the beef to the skillet and pour in the remaining beef broth. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Serve: Top with sliced green onions and serve hot over rice or noodles.

5. One-Pan Shrimp Scampi

One-Pan Shrimp Scampi is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the sea right to your dinner table. This recipe combines succulent shrimp with buttery garlic sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, creating a deliciously satisfying meal. The taste is light yet rich, making it a fantastic choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

What makes this dish stand out is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and all cooked in one pan, cleanup is a breeze! It’s quick to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a flavorful meal without the fuss. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Shrimp: Stir in the shrimp, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Combine Ingredients: Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and then add the cooked pasta, tossing everything together until well mixed.
5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

6. One-Pan Spanish Rice And Chicken

One-Pan Spanish Rice and Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken and flavorful rice, all cooked in one skillet. The combination of spices, veggies, and savory chicken creates a warm and inviting meal that’s full of life. It’s simple to make and requires minimal cleanup, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.

This dish has a lovely balance of flavors, with the earthiness of the rice complemented by the juicy chicken and a medley of vegetables. You’ll enjoy the comforting taste of home-cooked food without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve it up with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a bright finish!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Season the chicken thighs with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken to the skillet, skin-side down, and cook for about 6-7 minutes until browned. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the diced bell pepper and cook until soft, about 3 minutes. Stir in the rice and cook for another 2 minutes until the rice is slightly toasted.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, add the chicken back to the skillet, and cover. Simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the chicken is done.
5. Stir in the frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Once done, garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

7. One-Pan Caprese Chicken

One-Pan Caprese Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic basil. The flavors are vibrant and comforting, making it a fantastic meal for any night of the week. What’s more, it’s simple to prepare and requires minimal cleanup, perfect for busy evenings.

This recipe is all about harmony in taste. The chicken is seasoned and seared until golden, while the fresh ingredients add a touch of brightness. A drizzle of balsamic glaze ties everything together beautifully. Serve this dish with some crusty bread or over a bed of greens to soak up the delicious juices!

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• Balsamic glaze, for drizzling

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add Tomatoes: In the same skillet, add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
4. Combine Ingredients: Return the chicken to the skillet, top with mozzarella slices, and cover the skillet for a few minutes until the cheese melts.
5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh basil leaves, and drizzle balsamic glaze over the top before serving.

8. One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken And Rice

One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken thighs and fluffy rice, all infused with a rich garlic butter flavor. This recipe is not only satisfying but also incredibly simple to prepare, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights.

The combination of golden-brown chicken and perfectly cooked rice creates a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, the one-pan aspect means less cleanup, allowing you to focus on savoring your delicious dinner.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Season the Chicken: Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken thighs.
2. Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook until golden brown, about 6-8 minutes. Flip and cook for another 6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Cook the Rice: Stir in the rice, chicken broth, and thyme. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add Chicken Back: Nestle the chicken thighs back into the skillet, skin-side up. Cover and cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with green onions, and enjoy your meal!

9. One-Pan Ratatouille

One-Pan Ratatouille is a colorful and hearty dish that’s full of fresh vegetables and bold flavors. It features layers of zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and tomatoes, all infused with herbs like thyme and oregano. This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the palate, making it a perfect option for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.

This recipe is simple to make and requires minimal cleanup since everything cooks in one skillet. It’s a great way to incorporate seasonal vegetables and can easily be adapted to include your favorites. Serve it as a side or make it the main event with some crusty bread or a side salad.

Ingredients

• 1 medium eggplant, sliced
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 2 large tomatoes, sliced
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
3. Arrange the sliced vegetables in a circular pattern, alternating colors.
4. Sprinkle with thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Cover the skillet with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
6. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

10. One-Pan Sausage And Veggies

This one-pan sausage and veggies dish is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. With juicy sausage spirals nestled among vibrant vegetables, it’s not only visually appealing but also packed with taste. It combines the savory richness of the sausage with the freshness of bell peppers, zucchini, and onions, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and hearty.

Easy to prepare, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. You can pop everything into a skillet, let it cook, and enjoy a wholesome dinner with minimal cleanup. It’s a great way to incorporate veggies into your diet while savoring the bold flavors of sausage. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients

• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
• 2 bell peppers, sliced (red and yellow)
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 small red onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, toss together the sausage, bell peppers, zucchini, and onion with olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange the sausage and vegetables evenly in the pan.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the sausage is browned and the veggies are tender.
5. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious one-pan meal!