Top 18 Most Popular One-Pan Skillet Meals Ever Made

There’s something magical about cooking everything in one skillet. These incredible one-pan meals make weeknight dinners so much easier while delivering amazing flavors.

From creamy chicken dishes to hearty beef skillets, these recipes prove that simple cooking can create the most satisfying meals your family will love.

01. Protein-Packed Beef & Sweet Potato Skillet

Hearty ground beef and tender sweet potatoes create a satisfying one-pan dinner. This simple recipe uses just five main ingredients for maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef, 2 large sweet potatoes (diced), 1 medium onion (chopped), 1 bell pepper (chopped), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon paprika, salt and pepper to taste.

How To Make Protein-Packed Beef & Sweet Potato Skillet

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced sweet potatoes and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and develop golden edges.

2. Push sweet potatoes to one side of the skillet and add ground beef to the empty space. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.

3. Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Season everything with paprika, salt, and pepper, then stir to combine all ingredients.

4. Continue cooking for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender and sweet potatoes are fork-tender. The beef should be fully cooked and the flavors well combined throughout.

02. Rich Balsamic Chicken & Mushroom Skillet

Tender chicken cutlets swimming in a creamy balsamic sauce with earthy mushrooms. The perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors makes this dish absolutely irresistible.

Ingredients: 4 thin chicken cutlets, 8 ounces sliced mushrooms, 2 shallots (minced), 3 cloves garlic (minced), 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt and pepper.

How To Make Rich Balsamic Chicken & Mushroom Skillet

1. Season chicken cutlets with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

2. In the same skillet, add sliced mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes until they release their moisture and become golden. Add minced shallots and garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

3. Pour in balsamic vinegar and let it simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This creates incredible depth of flavor in your sauce.

4. Stir in heavy cream and fresh thyme, then return chicken to the skillet. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the chicken beautifully.

03. Cheesy Chicken & White Bean Comfort Skillet

Creamy, cheesy comfort food that comes together in one pan. White beans and tender chicken create a hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast (cubed), 2 cans white beans (drained), 1 cup pepper jack cheese (shredded), 1 jalapeño (minced), 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1 onion (diced), 3 cloves garlic (minced), 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt and pepper.

How To Make Cheesy Chicken & White Bean Comfort Skillet

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is golden brown and cooked through.

2. Add diced onion and minced jalapeño to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until onion becomes translucent, then add garlic and cook for another minute until aromatic.

3. Stir in drained white beans and heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the beans to heat through and the cream to thicken slightly.

4. Remove from heat and sprinkle pepper jack cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet for 2-3 minutes until cheese melts completely, creating a beautifully creamy and cheesy finish.

5. For less heat, substitute Monterey Jack cheese for pepper jack and skip the jalapeño. The dish will still be incredibly flavorful and family-friendly.

04. Lemon Parmesan Chicken & Spinach Pasta Skillet

Garlicky pasta with tender chicken and fresh spinach in a bright lemon sauce. This family favorite combines simple ingredients for a meal everyone will request again and again.

Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast (sliced), 12 ounces penne pasta, 4 cups fresh spinach, 4 cloves garlic (minced), 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated), 2 lemons (juiced and zested), 3 tablespoons olive oil, salt and pepper.

How To Make Lemon Parmesan Chicken & Spinach Pasta Skillet

1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water. This starchy water will help create a silky sauce that clings to every piece of pasta.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken slices with salt and pepper, then cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add cooked pasta and toss with garlic, adding pasta water gradually to create a light sauce.

4. Add fresh spinach to the skillet and toss until it wilts completely, about 1-2 minutes. Return chicken to the pan and add lemon juice, lemon zest, and grated Parmesan cheese.

5. Toss everything together for 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts and creates a creamy coating. The lemon brightens every bite while the Parmesan adds rich, nutty flavor throughout.

05. Wild Rice Mushroom & Spinach Skillet Casserole

Earthy wild rice paired with meaty mushrooms and fresh spinach creates ultimate comfort food. This wholesome one-skillet meal delivers rich, savory flavors in every bite.

Ingredients: 1 cup wild rice, 12 ounces mixed mushrooms (sliced), 4 cups fresh spinach, 1 onion (diced), 3 cups vegetable broth, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 3 cloves garlic (minced), 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt and pepper.

How To Make Wild Rice Mushroom & Spinach Skillet Casserole

1. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent, building the flavor base for your casserole.

2. Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes until they release their moisture and become golden brown. The mushrooms should be caramelized and deeply flavorful.

3. Stir in minced garlic and wild rice, cooking for 1 minute until the rice is lightly toasted. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

4. Cover and simmer for 45-50 minutes until rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally and add more broth if needed to prevent sticking.

5. Remove from heat and stir in fresh spinach until wilted, then fold in heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper, creating a rich and satisfying comfort meal.

06. Easy Chicken Enchilada Skillet Casserole

All the flavors of chicken enchiladas without the rolling and stuffing. Charred vegetables and tender chicken create a simplified version that’s just as delicious.

Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast (cubed), 8 corn tortillas (cut into strips), 2 cups enchilada sauce, 1 cup Mexican cheese blend, 1 bell pepper (sliced), 1 onion (sliced), 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt and pepper.

How To Make Easy Chicken Enchilada Skillet Casserole

1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced bell pepper and onion, cooking for 6-8 minutes until vegetables are charred and softened.

2. Add cubed chicken to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is golden brown and cooked through completely.

3. Layer tortilla strips over the chicken and vegetables, then pour enchilada sauce evenly over everything. The tortillas will soften and absorb the delicious sauce as it bakes.

4. Sprinkle Mexican cheese blend over the top and transfer skillet to the oven. Bake for 15-18 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly, and tortillas are tender throughout.

07. Plant-Based Protein Enchilada Skillet

Black beans and crumbled tofu create a protein-packed vegetarian meal with bold enchilada flavors. Corn tortillas soften into the sauce for a satisfying one-pan dinner.

Ingredients: 1 block firm tofu (crumbled), 2 cans black beans (drained), 6 corn tortillas (torn), 2 cups green enchilada sauce, 1 cup Mexican cheese blend, 1 onion (diced), 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon cumin, salt and pepper.

How To Make Plant-Based Protein Enchilada Skillet

1. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened, then add crumbled tofu and cumin.

2. Cook tofu for 6-8 minutes, stirring frequently, until it becomes golden and slightly crispy. The tofu will absorb flavors beautifully and develop great texture.

3. Add black beans and torn tortilla pieces to the skillet, stirring gently to combine. Pour enchilada sauce over everything, making sure tortillas are well-coated.

4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes until tortillas begin to soften. Sprinkle cheese on top and bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

08. Southwestern Quinoa & Black Bean Skillet

Protein-rich quinoa and black beans with southwestern flavors and melted cheddar cheese. This nutritious one-skillet meal is both filling and incredibly flavorful.

Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa, 1 can black beans (drained), 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded), 1 bell pepper (diced), 1 onion (diced), 2 cups vegetable broth, 1 can diced tomatoes, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon chili powder.

How To Make Southwestern Quinoa & Black Bean Skillet

1. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and bell pepper, cooking for 5-6 minutes until vegetables are softened and lightly caramelized.

2. Stir in quinoa and chili powder, toasting the quinoa for 2 minutes until it becomes fragrant. This step adds depth and nuttiness to the final dish.

3. Add vegetable broth and diced tomatoes, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until quinoa is tender and liquid is absorbed.

4. Stir in black beans and half the cheddar cheese. Top with remaining cheese and bake at 375°F for 10 minutes until cheese is melted and golden brown on top.

09. Quick Garlicky Salmon & Broccoli Skillet

Flaky salmon with crisp-tender broccoli and bell peppers in a garlicky sauce. This healthy 20-minute dinner delivers omega-3s and vegetables in one delicious pan.

Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets, 4 cups broccoli florets, 1 bell pepper (sliced), 4 cloves garlic (minced), 3 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes, salt and pepper.

How To Make Quick Garlicky Salmon & Broccoli Skillet

1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then cook skin-side up for 4-5 minutes until golden brown.

2. Flip salmon carefully and cook for another 3-4 minutes until fish flakes easily with a fork. Remove salmon from skillet and cover with foil to keep warm.

3. Add remaining olive oil to the same skillet. Add broccoli florets and bell pepper slices, cooking for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender and bright green.

4. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Drizzle with lemon juice and return salmon to the skillet to warm through before serving.

10. Sweet Orange Chicken & Broccoli Skillet

Juicy chicken thighs with fresh broccoli and brown rice in a sweet orange glaze. This vibrant skillet meal combines protein and vegetables for a complete dinner.

Ingredients: 6 chicken thighs (boneless), 4 cups broccoli florets, 2 cups cooked brown rice, 1/2 cup orange juice, 2 tablespoons orange zest, 2 tablespoons honey, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 cloves garlic (minced).

How To Make Sweet Orange Chicken & Broccoli Skillet

1. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then cook skin-side down for 6-7 minutes until skin is crispy and golden.

2. Flip chicken and cook for another 5-6 minutes until cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside, leaving the flavorful drippings in the pan.

3. Add broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender. Add cooked brown rice and toss to combine with the vegetables.

4. Whisk together orange juice, orange zest, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Pour over the rice and broccoli, then nestle chicken back into the skillet.

5. Transfer to a 400°F oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until chicken is heated through and the orange glaze has thickened beautifully around everything.

11. Creamy Tomato Salmon Skillet in 20 Minutes

Tender salmon fillets in a luscious creamy tomato sauce with zucchini and Italian herbs. This restaurant-quality dinner comes together in just 20 minutes for busy weeknights.

Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets, 2 medium zucchini (sliced), 1 can diced tomatoes, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 3 cloves garlic (minced), 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt and pepper.

How To Make Creamy Tomato Salmon Skillet in 20 Minutes

1. Season salmon fillets generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook salmon for 4 minutes per side until golden brown and flaky.

2. Remove salmon from skillet and set aside. Add sliced zucchini to the same pan and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender and lightly golden, absorbing all those delicious salmon flavors.

3. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, then stir in diced tomatoes with their juice. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes to develop rich flavors.

4. Pour in heavy cream and remaining Italian seasoning, stirring to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Return salmon to the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes until heated through and sauce thickens perfectly.

12. One-Pan Lemon Chicken with Potatoes & Kale

Juicy chicken thighs with golden potatoes and nutritious kale in bright lemon flavors. This complete one-pan meal makes cleanup easy while delivering incredible taste.

Ingredients: 6 chicken thighs (bone-in), 1.5 pounds small potatoes (halved), 4 cups kale (chopped), 2 lemons (juiced and sliced), 4 cloves garlic (minced), 3 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, salt and pepper.

How To Make One-Pan Lemon Chicken with Potatoes & Kale

1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and oregano, then cook skin-side down for 6-8 minutes until crispy.

2. Flip chicken and cook for another 4-5 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and add halved potatoes to the same pan, cooking for 5-6 minutes until they start to golden.

3. Add minced garlic and chopped kale to the skillet, tossing with the potatoes for 2-3 minutes until kale begins to wilt and become bright green.

4. Nestle chicken back into the skillet among the vegetables. Add lemon slices and drizzle everything with fresh lemon juice for bright, zesty flavor throughout.

5. Transfer to the oven and roast for 25-30 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F internally and potatoes are fork-tender. The lemon slices will caramelize beautifully, adding incredible depth.

13. Teriyaki Chicken & Broccoli Skillet Casserole

Quick teriyaki chicken with broccoli and rice in one satisfying skillet. Perfect for using leftover chicken and rice, or start fresh with rotisserie chicken for extra convenience.

Ingredients: 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded), 2 cups cooked brown rice, 4 cups broccoli florets, 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce, 2 tablespoons sesame oil, 2 cloves garlic (minced), 2 green onions (sliced), 1 tablespoon sesame seeds.

How To Make Teriyaki Chicken & Broccoli Skillet Casserole

1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add broccoli florets and cook for 4-5 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender, stirring frequently to ensure even cooking.

2. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in cooked rice, breaking up any clumps and mixing with the broccoli and garlic.

3. Add shredded chicken and teriyaki sauce, tossing everything together until well-coated. Cook for 3-4 minutes until chicken is heated through and sauce is absorbed.

4. Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. The combination creates a perfect balance of sweet teriyaki flavors with fresh, crunchy toppings.

14. Hearty Ground Beef & Potato Skillet

Ground beef and tender potatoes with colorful vegetables including kale, tomatoes, and peppers. This healthy one-pan meal builds incredible layers of flavor while minimizing cleanup.

Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef, 4 medium potatoes (diced), 2 cups kale (chopped), 1 bell pepper (diced), 1 onion (diced), 2 tomatoes (diced), 3 cloves garlic (minced), 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt and pepper.

How To Make Hearty Ground Beef & Potato Skillet

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced potatoes and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they develop golden brown edges and become tender.

2. Push potatoes to one side of the skillet and add ground beef to the empty space. Break up the meat and cook for 5-6 minutes until browned and cooked through.

3. Add diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet, mixing with the beef and potatoes. Cook for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are softened and aromatic.

4. Stir in minced garlic and chopped kale, cooking for 2-3 minutes until kale wilts and becomes bright green. Add diced tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.

5. Season everything with salt and pepper, tasting and adjusting as needed. The vegetables should be tender and the flavors well-combined throughout this hearty, satisfying meal.

15. Summer Chicken with Corn, Tomato & Basil

Light and fresh chicken with sweet summer corn, ripe tomatoes, and aromatic basil. This 20-minute recipe celebrates seasonal flavors in a creamy, tangy sauce.

Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts (sliced thin), 2 cups fresh corn kernels, 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved), 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped), 1/2 cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt and pepper.

How To Make Summer Chicken with Corn, Tomato & Basil

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season sliced chicken with salt and pepper, then cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

2. Remove chicken from skillet and add fresh corn kernels. Cook for 4-5 minutes until corn is tender and lightly caramelized, stirring occasionally for even browning.

3. Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices, creating a natural sauce base.

4. Stir in heavy cream and lemon juice, then return chicken to the skillet. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens slightly and chicken is heated through.

5. Remove from heat and stir in fresh chopped basil. The herbs will wilt slightly from the heat, releasing their aromatic oils throughout this bright, summery dish.

16. Creamy Garlic Chicken Skillet with Spinach

Quick-cooking chicken cutlets in a rich garlic cream sauce with fresh spinach. This easy one-skillet recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort and maximum taste.

Ingredients: 4 chicken cutlets, 4 cups fresh spinach, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 4 cloves garlic (minced), 1/4 cup chicken broth, 2 tablespoons butter, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated), salt and pepper.

How To Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Skillet with Spinach

1. Season chicken cutlets with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

2. Remove chicken from skillet and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

3. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes until it begins to thicken into a rich, velvety sauce.

4. Add fresh spinach to the skillet and stir until completely wilted, about 1-2 minutes. The spinach adds beautiful color and nutrition to this indulgent dish.

5. Return chicken to the skillet and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Cook for 1-2 minutes until cheese melts and chicken is heated through, creating the perfect creamy coating.

17. Spinach Artichoke Chicken Skillet Supreme

Classic spinach artichoke dip flavors elevated to main dish status with tender chicken cutlets. This sophisticated yet comforting one-pan meal comes together quickly for busy nights.

Ingredients: 4 chicken cutlets, 4 cups fresh spinach, 1 can artichoke hearts (drained and chopped), 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened), 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated), 3 cloves garlic (minced), 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt and pepper.

How To Make Spinach Artichoke Chicken Skillet Supreme

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken cutlets with salt and pepper, then cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through completely.

2. Remove chicken from skillet and add minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, then add fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.

3. Rinse chopped artichoke hearts thoroughly to remove excess sodium, then add them to the skillet with the spinach. Stir in softened cream cheese until it melts and becomes smooth.

4. Pour in heavy cream and add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly to create a rich, creamy sauce. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.

5. Return chicken to the skillet, spooning the spinach artichoke mixture over each piece. Cook for 2-3 minutes until chicken is heated through and sauce is bubbly and perfect.

18. Vegetarian White Bean Enchilada Skillet

Classic enchilada flavors with white beans and vegetables, topped with melted cheese. Tortillas bake right into the skillet for a perfect weeknight dinner without the rolling.

Ingredients: 2 cans white beans (drained), 6 corn tortillas (cut into strips), 2 cups green enchilada sauce, 1 cup Mexican cheese blend, 1 bell pepper (diced), 1 onion (diced), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt and pepper.

How To Make Vegetarian White Bean Enchilada Skillet

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and bell pepper, cooking for 5-6 minutes until vegetables are softened and lightly caramelized.

2. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in drained white beans and season with salt and pepper, cooking for 2-3 minutes to heat through.

3. Layer tortilla strips over the bean and vegetable mixture, then pour green enchilada sauce evenly over everything. The tortillas will absorb the sauce and become tender as it bakes.

4. Sprinkle Mexican cheese blend over the top and transfer to the oven. Bake for 18-20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly, and tortillas are perfectly tender.

5. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. You can substitute red enchilada sauce if you prefer, but the tangy green sauce really complements the mild white beans beautifully.

Final Thoughts

These incredible skillet recipes prove that one-pan cooking doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or variety. From creamy chicken dishes to hearty vegetarian meals, there’s something perfect for every taste.

Keep these recipes handy for those busy weeknights when you want delicious, satisfying meals without the fuss. Your family will love these easy, flavorful dinners!