Spring Chicken Skillet with Asparagus and Snap Peas

This Spring Chicken Skillet with Asparagus and Snap Peas is a light, fresh, and flavorful one-pan dish that celebrates the best of seasonal ingredients. With juicy chicken pieces, crisp asparagus, and sweet snap peas, it comes together quickly and makes a perfect dinner for busy weeknights or relaxed spring evenings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Features fresh, vibrant spring vegetables
• Quick and easy to prepare in just one skillet
• Balanced and nutritious without sacrificing flavor
• Ideal for busy weeknights
• Customizable with different vegetables or seasonings
• Clean-up is minimal thanks to one-pan cooking
• Delicious on its own or served over rice, pasta, or quinoa
• Kid-friendly and suitable for the whole family
• Great for meal prepping lunches
• Brings the brightness of spring to your table

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ½ bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 cup sugar snap peas
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped chives for garnish

Directions

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.
2. Toss the chicken pieces in cornstarch until evenly coated.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the red onion, asparagus, and snap peas. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for 4–5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Stir in the garlic and Italian seasoning and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Stir and let simmer for 2–3 minutes.
7. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat everything in the sauce.
8. Cook for an additional minute, then remove from heat and garnish with chopped chives. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add a splash of cream or a spoonful of crème fraîche for a richer sauce
• Swap in green beans, peas, or zucchini if asparagus or snap peas are unavailable
• Use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra juiciness
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for mild heat
• Substitute Italian seasoning with fresh herbs like thyme or tarragon
• Add mushrooms for an earthy flavor
• Serve over pasta, rice, couscous, or mashed potatoes
• Make it vegetarian by replacing chicken with tofu or chickpeas
• Try a squeeze of orange juice instead of lemon for a twist
• Use garlic-infused oil to deepen the flavor

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water if needed to maintain moisture.
• Freezing: Not recommended due to the change in texture of the asparagus and snap peas after thawing.

FAQs

What kind of chicken works best for this skillet?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work well. Thighs will offer a juicier texture, while breasts remain lean.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead or fully cook the dish and store it for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

How do I keep the vegetables crisp?

Avoid overcooking and sauté the asparagus and snap peas just until they are tender but still slightly firm.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, thaw them first and pat them dry to avoid excess water in the skillet.

What can I use instead of cornstarch?

Arrowroot powder or all-purpose flour can be used as substitutes for coating the chicken.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free cornstarch and make sure your chicken broth is gluten-free.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely. Bell peppers, peas, zucchini, and mushrooms are all good additions.

What sides go well with this meal?

Serve with rice, couscous, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or even a fresh salad.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce will add a nice kick.

How long does it keep in the fridge?

Leftovers will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in a sealed container.

Conclusion

This Spring Chicken Skillet with Asparagus and Snap Peas is a celebration of freshness, simplicity, and great taste. With a quick cook time, seasonal ingredients, and minimal cleanup, it’s a reliable go-to recipe for any day of the week. Whether you serve it as-is or customize it with your favorite vegetables, it’s sure to bring brightness to your table.

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