Description
Cheesy Ravioli Skillet with Chicken and Veggies
Ingredients
3 chicken breasts, seasoned with salt and pepper
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium zucchini, sliced
1 cup sweet corn (fresh or frozen)
2 cups refrigerated cheese ravioli
1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and sear until golden brown on both sides (about 3-4 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
Cook the Veggies:
In the same skillet, add zucchini and corn. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
Add Sauce & Ravioli:
Pour in marinara sauce and chicken broth, then add the ravioli. Stir to combine, making sure the ravioli is submerged in the sauce.
Simmer with Chicken:
Place the chicken back into the skillet. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning. Cover and simmer on medium-low heat for 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the ravioli is tender.
Finish with Cheese:
Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the dish. Let it melt for 1-2 minutes.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm straight from the skillet!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 420 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof one-pan meal. Start by patting your chicken breasts dry with a paper towel before seasoning; this ensures a better sear. Use a large, deep skillet or braiser with a tight-fitting lid. After searing the chicken and setting it aside, don’t clean the skillet—the browned bits add flavor. When adding the ravioli, gently nestle them into the sauce in a single layer to promote even cooking. During the simmering stage, keep the heat at a gentle bubble to prevent the ravioli from breaking apart. Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken has reached 165°F internally.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty skillet meal is a complete dish on its own, but you can elevate it with simple sides. Serve with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A side of garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce. For a lighter option, pair it with steamed green beans or roasted asparagus. To round out the meal, consider a glass of Chianti or Pinot Noir.
How-to Summary
Sear seasoned chicken breasts and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté zucchini and corn. Add marinara, broth, and ravioli, then return the chicken to the pan. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, cover, and simmer until the chicken is cooked through and ravioli is tender. Finish with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen ravioli? Yes, you can use frozen cheese ravioli. There’s no need to thaw them first; just add 2-3 minutes to the simmering time.
What can I use instead of chicken broth? Vegetable broth or even water with an extra pinch of salt are fine substitutes. The marinara provides most of the flavor.
How can I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a covered skillet with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Can I make this dish vegetarian? Absolutely. Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. You can add extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for heartiness.
My sauce is too thick. What should I do? If the sauce reduces too much during simmering, simply stir in an additional 1/4 cup of chicken broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: Searing too many chicken breasts at once steams them instead of creating a golden crust. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Overcooking the Ravioli: Simmer just until the ravioli are tender. Overcooking will make them mushy and fall apart.
- Using High Heat to Simmer: A rapid boil can break the ravioli and toughen the chicken. Maintain a gentle simmer.
- Skipping the Sear on the Chicken: This step builds foundational flavor for the entire dish. Don’t rush it.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Ravioli Skillet is the ultimate solution for a delicious, comforting, and quick weeknight dinner. Combining protein, veggies, and pasta in one pan, it maximizes flavor while minimizing cleanup. With the detailed steps, tips, and substitutions provided, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste and pantry. It’s a versatile, family-friendly meal that proves impressive dinners don’t require complicated techniques or a sink full of dishes.