- Protein of choice: 1 lb ground turkey, ground beef, chicken breast cubes, or tofu
- Olive oil: 2 Tbsp (for sautéing)
- Yellow onion: 1 medium, chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Carrots: 2 medium, diced
- Zucchini: 1 medium, chopped
- Bell peppers: 2 (any color), diced
- Broccoli florets: 2 cups
- Canned diced tomatoes: 1 (14 oz) can
- Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: 2 cups
- Cooked beans (optional for extra protein): 1 cup (black beans, chickpeas, or kidney beans)
- Seasonings:
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro: 2 Tbsp, chopped (for garnish)
- Cook the protein – Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your chosen protein (ground meat, chicken, or tofu) and cook until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics – In the same skillet, add onion, garlic, and carrots. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add vegetables – Stir in zucchini, bell peppers, and broccoli. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Simmer with liquids – Add diced tomatoes, broth, and seasonings. Stir well, then return the cooked protein to the skillet.
- Optional beans – If using beans, stir them in at this stage.
- Simmer & thicken – Reduce heat to low and let everything simmer gently for 15–20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and liquid to slightly reduce.
- Serve & garnish – Sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve warm with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread.
- Spoon over brown rice or quinoa for a high-protein power bowl.
- Serve with whole-grain pasta for a hearty dinner.
- Enjoy with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
Hearty Skillet Protein & Veggie Simmer – A One-Pan Comfort Meal
