BBQ Chicken Skillet: 5 Reasons You’ll Love This Dish

Name: BBQ Chicken Skillet: 5 Reasons You'll Love This Dish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 chicken fillets, diced; 1 cup BBQ sauce; 1 cup bell peppers, sliced; 1 cup onion, sliced; 1 cup shredded cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil

By:

Christina R. Jones

August 11, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: the BBQ chicken skillet! This dish is a total lifesaver when I’m short on time but still want something delicious and satisfying. Picture this: juicy, tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and sweet onions all smothered in tangy BBQ sauce, topped off with gooey, melted cheese. It’s like a cozy hug in a skillet! And the best part? You can whip it up in just about 30 minutes! Seriously, it’s so quick and easy, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner. Plus, it’s super versatile—perfect for using up leftover chicken or whatever veggies you have in your fridge. Trust me, once you make this BBQ chicken skillet, it’s going to become a regular on your dinner rotation. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!

bbq chicken skillet - detail 1

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering BBQ chicken skillet:

2 chicken fillets, diced: Make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
1 cup BBQ sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade for that extra kick of flavor.
1 cup bell peppers, sliced: Any color works! Red, green, or yellow add a nice pop of color and sweetness.
1 cup onion, sliced: A medium onion should do the trick; it brings a lovely depth of flavor to the dish.
1 cup shredded cheese: I love using sharp cheddar, but feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack or mozzarella!
2 tablespoons olive oil: This is what you’ll use to sauté everything to perfection.

Gathering these ingredients will set you up for a delicious meal that’s both comforting and quick to prepare!

How to Prepare BBQ Chicken Skillet

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! This BBQ chicken skillet comes together quickly, so be prepared to savor the wonderful aromas filling your kitchen.

Heat the olive oil: Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sizzle when you add the chicken, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
Cook the chicken: Add the diced chicken fillets to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re nicely browned and cooked through. You’ll know they’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Add the veggies: Toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté everything together for another 3-4 minutes until the veggies soften and the onions turn translucent. This step adds great flavor to the dish!
Pour in the BBQ sauce: Now it’s time to add that delicious BBQ sauce! Pour in 1 cup of your favorite sauce and stir everything together, making sure the chicken and veggies are well coated.
Cheese it up: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the top of the mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, just until the cheese melts into a gooey, delicious layer.

And there you have it! Your BBQ chicken skillet is ready to be devoured. Just serve it up and enjoy the flavors of this easy, crowd-pleasing meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights!
Flavor-packed: The combination of BBQ sauce, tender chicken, and sautéed veggies creates a mouthwatering harmony of flavors.
Healthy ingredients: With lean chicken and colorful bell peppers, you’re getting a nutritious meal without sacrificing taste.
Versatile: Use leftover chicken or whatever veggies you have on hand for a customized twist every time.
Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting, cheesy dish that’s sure to please everyone!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of this delicious BBQ chicken skillet. Remember, these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used:

Calories: 350
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 12g
Protein: 28g

This hearty meal not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a good balance of protein and nutrients, making it a great choice for any meal!

Tips for Success

To ensure your BBQ chicken skillet turns out perfectly every time, here are some tried-and-true tips that I swear by:

Don’t overcrowd the pan: If your skillet is too crowded, the chicken won’t brown. Cook in batches if needed to achieve that golden, crispy texture.
Use a meat thermometer: This is a game-changer! Checking for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) guarantees your chicken is cooked through without being dry.
Customize the veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like zucchini or corn. Just make sure they’re cut evenly for consistent cooking.
Let it rest: After cooking, let the skillet sit covered for a couple of minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and makes the cheese extra gooey!
Adjust the BBQ sauce: Not a fan of sweet BBQ sauce? Try a spicy or smoky variety for a different flavor twist. Trust me, it’s worth experimenting!

These simple tips will help you master this dish and impress your family or guests with your culinary skills!

Variations

If you’re looking to shake things up with your BBQ chicken skillet, here are some fun variations to try that will keep your taste buds excited!

Switch up the veggies: Don’t be afraid to experiment! Try adding zucchini, corn, or even black beans for extra nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to adjust cooking times for softer veggies like zucchini.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chili flakes for a kick! If you love the smoky flavor, consider using smoked paprika or chipotle powder in your BBQ sauce.
Use leftover chicken: Got some rotisserie chicken lying around? Shred it and toss it in the skillet with the veggies and BBQ sauce for a super quick meal!
Change the cheese: While I adore sharp cheddar, you could try pepper jack for a spicy twist or even a creamy mozzarella for that gooey goodness. Mix and match to find your favorite combo!
Add some fruits: For a sweet touch, consider throwing in some pineapple chunks or diced peaches. The sweetness pairs wonderfully with the BBQ sauce!

These variations not only add excitement to your BBQ chicken skillet but also let you tailor the dish to your family’s preferences. Enjoy the journey of flavors!

Serving Suggestions

To really elevate your BBQ chicken skillet experience, consider serving it alongside a few delicious side dishes! I often pair it with fluffy white rice or quinoa to soak up all that incredible BBQ sauce. A fresh garden salad with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the dish. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, homemade cornbread or buttery garlic bread makes a fantastic accompaniment. And don’t forget a side of coleslaw for that creamy, crunchy contrast that brings everything together. Trust me, these sides will make your meal unforgettable!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers? Don’t worry, this BBQ chicken skillet stores beautifully for your next meal! Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Storing leftovers: Allow the skillet to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing options: If you want to save it for longer, this dish freezes well! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. It should last about 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Now, for reheating:

Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or wrap, and heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Make sure it’s heated all the way through!
Stovetop: For the best texture, reheat in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or extra BBQ sauce to keep it moist, and stir occasionally until warmed through, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the BBQ chicken skillet in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

Following these storage and reheating tips will ensure you enjoy every last bite of this delicious dish! Happy eating!

FAQ Section

Got questions about the BBQ chicken skillet? No worries, I’ve got you covered with some common inquiries that might pop into your mind!

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before dicing and cooking. If you’re in a pinch, you can cook it from frozen, but it’ll take longer to reach that perfect golden brown.
Q2: What can I substitute for BBQ sauce?
If you’re not a fan of BBQ sauce, you can use teriyaki sauce or even a honey mustard glaze for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the taste will change, but it can still be delicious!
Q3: Is this BBQ chicken skillet gluten-free?
Yes, it is! As long as you choose a gluten-free BBQ sauce, this dish is perfect for those following a gluten-free diet. Always check the label to be sure!
Q4: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the chicken and veggies in advance, then just add the BBQ sauce and cheese when you’re ready to cook. It’ll save you time on busy nights!
Q5: How can I make this dish spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a few shakes of hot sauce when you pour in the BBQ sauce. Another option is to use spicy BBQ sauce to kick it up a notch!

These FAQs should help clear up any doubts and make your BBQ chicken skillet experience even better. Enjoy cooking!