Easy One Pan Sazon Chicken Skillet Dinner
If you’re searching for a dinner that’s bursting with vibrant flavors, quick to make, and requires just one pan, you’re going to love this One Pan Sazon Chicken Skillet Dinner. Combining tender chicken seasoned with fragrant sazon spices alongside colorful veggies, this dish comes together in a snap and delivers a satisfying meal without the mess. Whether you’re new to cooking or need a reliable go-to for busy weeknights, this recipe fits the bill perfectly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for hectic evenings.
- One Pan Convenience: Cuts down cleanup time significantly by cooking everything in a single skillet.
- Bold Flavor Profile: Authentic sazon seasoning infuses every bite with rich, warm spices and a hint of smokiness.
- Nutritious and Balanced: Includes protein and vegetables for a wholesome, satisfying meal.
- Family-Friendly: Mild yet flavorful, making it appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on simple, everyday ingredients that work harmoniously to create that classic sazon taste and a perfect texture in every bite. Each component plays a vital role, from seasoning to freshness, completing the dish beautifully.
- Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Choose boneless for quicker cooking and tender results.
- Sazon Seasoning Packet: The star of the recipe, providing the signature blend of garlic, coriander, and annatto.
- Bell Peppers: Adds sweetness and vibrant color, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
- Onion: Offers a slight crunch and savory depth.
- Olive Oil: Helps sear the chicken beautifully and keeps veggies tender.
- Garlic Cloves: Infuses aromatic earthiness into the dish.
- Tomatoes: Adds acidity and moisture for a well-rounded taste.
- Fresh Cilantro (optional): Garnishes and adds a fresh herbal touch.
Variations for One Pan Sazon Chicken Skillet Dinner
Feel free to customize this One Pan Sazon Chicken Skillet Dinner to suit your pantry, dietary needs, or flavor preferences. These easy swaps and additions allow you to make the recipe your own every time you cook it.
- Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts: For juicier, more flavorful meat that stays tender.
- Add Black Beans or Corn: To boost fiber and create a more filling meal.
- Swap Veggies: Green beans, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes work great for a change in texture.
- Make it Spicy: Include a chopped jalapeño or sprinkle red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Ensure your sazon seasoning is gluten-free or use a homemade blend.
How to Make One Pan Sazon Chicken Skillet Dinner
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by slicing your bell peppers and onions into even strips and mincing the garlic. Make sure your chicken is patted dry to allow better browning once it hits the pan.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Generously coat both sides of the chicken pieces with the sazon seasoning, pressing it gently to stick well. This helps lock in the bold flavors during cooking.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add the chicken and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and nearly cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Vegetables
In the same pan, add more olive oil if needed, sauté the onions, bell peppers, and garlic until softened and aromatic, stirring often to prevent burning.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the vegetables. Add diced tomatoes, cover, and let everything simmer on low heat for about 8-10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top before serving for a burst of freshness and color. Enjoy hot for the best experience.
Pro Tips for Making One Pan Sazon Chicken Skillet Dinner
- Pat Your Chicken Dry: Ensures a nice sear instead of steaming, resulting in better texture.
- Use a Heavy Skillet: A cast iron or stainless steel pan retains heat well for even cooking.
- Don’t Rush the Simmer: Allow the chicken and veggies to meld so the flavors deepen perfectly.
- Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you cook and add more sazon or salt if needed for balance.
- Let It Rest Briefly: Rest the chicken once cooked for juicy, tender bites.
How to Serve One Pan Sazon Chicken Skillet Dinner
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro leaves and a squeeze of lime juice brighten the dish beautifully. You can also add sliced avocado or a sprinkle of queso fresco for a creamy contrast.
Side Dishes
This One Pan Sazon Chicken Skillet Dinner pairs wonderfully with fluffy white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or warm tortillas for a complete meal that soaks up every delicious drop of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve it family-style straight from the skillet for a cozy sharing experience. For a fun twist, plate over a bed of quinoa or top with a dollop of sour cream and chopped green onions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover One Pan Sazon Chicken Skillet Dinner in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining its delicious flavors.
Freezing
Freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out if needed.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor, making them a fantastic alternative for this recipe.
Is sazon seasoning gluten-free?
Most sazon seasonings are gluten-free, but it’s important to check the label to ensure there are no hidden gluten-containing ingredients.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, try substituting the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas and adjust cooking times accordingly for a tasty vegetarian version.
How spicy is this dish?
This dish is typically mild, but you can easily control the heat by adding or omitting spicy peppers or chili flakes to your preference.
What can I serve with this skillet dinner?
Serve with rice, crusty bread, or warm tortillas. Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad also complement the dish nicely.
Final Thoughts
This One Pan Sazon Chicken Skillet Dinner is truly a lifesaver for simple, flavorful meals that bring joy without the fuss. I can’t wait for you to try it and add your own twists. Once you make this recipe, it will become one of your favorite weeknight dinners to share with family and friends!
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One Pan Sazon Chicken Skillet Dinner
A vibrant and flavorful One Pan Sazon Chicken Skillet Dinner that combines tender, sazon-seasoned chicken with colorful vegetables cooked together in one skillet. Ready in under 30 minutes, this easy-to-make, nutritious, and family-friendly meal requires minimal cleanup and delivers bold Latin-inspired flavors perfect for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Latin American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Protein
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 packet sazon seasoning
Vegetables
- 2 bell peppers, sliced into strips
- 1 medium onion, sliced into strips
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
Other Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Slice the bell peppers and onions into even strips and mince the garlic. Pat the chicken dry to ensure better browning when cooking.
- Season the Chicken: Generously coat both sides of the chicken pieces with the sazon seasoning, pressing gently so it adheres well.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and almost cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add more olive oil if necessary. Sauté the onions, bell peppers, and garlic until softened and fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Combine and Simmer: Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it among the vegetables. Add the diced tomatoes, cover, and simmer on low heat for 8-10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and flavors meld together.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the dish before serving for brightness and a fresh herbal touch. Serve hot for the best taste experience.
Notes
- Pat your chicken dry before cooking to achieve a nice sear instead of steaming.
- Use a heavy skillet such as cast iron or stainless steel for even heat retention and cooking.
- Do not rush the simmer step; allow the flavors to meld fully for the best depth of taste.
- Taste as you cook and adjust seasoning gradually by adding more sazon or salt if needed.
- Rest cooked chicken briefly before serving to keep it juicy and tender.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: One Pan, Sazon Chicken, Skillet Dinner, Quick Dinner, Weeknight Meal, Gluten Free, Latin Inspired, Easy Recipe, Chicken Skillet