Posted in Skillet Meals

Harvest Chicken & Vegetable Skillet

A colorful one-skillet dinner that makes the most of September’s harvest.

When the farm stand is full of beautiful vegetables, this is exactly the kind of meal I want to make.

Tender pieces of chicken are cooked with sweet corn, zucchini, bell pepper, onion, and tomatoes for a simple skillet dinner that tastes like the best of late summer and early fall. A little garlic and Italian seasoning are all you need to bring everything together.

It’s colorful, filling, budget-friendly, and—best of all—there’s only one skillet to wash.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • One skillet: Everything cooks together, making cleanup easy.
  • Harvest-friendly: Perfect for using whatever fresh vegetables look best this week.
  • High in protein: Chicken makes this a satisfying main dish.
  • Mildly seasoned: Plenty of flavor without making the dish overly spicy.
  • Flexible: Swap in whatever seasonal vegetables you already have.
  • Small-batch friendly: Makes four servings, so it works well for singles and couples with leftovers for another meal.
  • Budget-conscious: Seasonal vegetables help stretch a modest amount of chicken.
simplegoodfood's avatarsimplegoodfood

Harvest Chicken & Vegetable Skillet

Tender pieces of chicken are cooked with sweet corn, zucchini, bell pepper, onion, and tomatoes for a simple skillet dinner that tastes like the best of late summer and early fall.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 330

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil divided
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • 1 medium zucchini diced
  • 1 red bell pepper chopped
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen sweet corn
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese optional

Method
 

Prepare the chicken.
  1. Pat the chicken dry and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Season lightly with the salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Brown the chicken.
  1. Heat 2 teaspoons of the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for about 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly browned and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
Cook the vegetables.
  1. Add the remaining teaspoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook for 2–3 minutes. Add the zucchini and corn and continue cooking for another 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the tomatoes and garlic.
  1. Stir in the tomatoes and garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant and the tomatoes begin to soften.
Bring it together.
  1. Return the chicken and any accumulated juices to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth and stir everything together.
Finish cooking.
  1. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the broth has reduced slightly.
Finish and serve.
  1. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and, if desired, Parmesan cheese. Serve hot.

Notes

Make It Your Own

This skillet is intentionally flexible.
Use yellow squash instead of zucchini, add a handful of spinach, substitute green beans for the bell pepper, or toss in leftover roasted vegetables. If tomatoes aren’t looking their best, a few spoonfuls of drained canned diced tomatoes work, too.
You can also change the seasoning to match what you have on hand. A little dried basil or parsley works beautifully here.

Serving Suggestions

This is a complete meal on its own, but you can stretch it a little further by serving it over:

  • Brown rice
  • Quinoa
  • Barley
  • Whole-grain pasta
  • Cauliflower rice

For a lighter meal, serve it with a simple green salad or a piece of whole-grain bread.

A Little Leftover Magic

Don’t overlook the leftovers!

The chicken and vegetables can be refrigerated and reheated for another lunch or dinner. They can also become the starting point for a rice bowl, wrap, or quick quesadilla.

And if you’re following along with our September “Put a Little Back” theme, this is also a good reminder of why preserving seasonal produce can be worthwhile. Today’s harvest doesn’t have to stay today’s dinner.

Nutrition Estimate

Per serving, without optional Parmesan: approximately 330 calories and 37g protein.

Nutrition is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used.

Food Safety Note

Cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F as measured with a food thermometer. Refrigerate leftovers promptly and use within 3–4 days.

Posted in Rice Bowls

Campground Fried Rice

Sometimes the best meals are the ones you never planned.

Campground Fried Rice is the perfect example of turning leftovers into something completely new. A little cooked chicken, yesterday’s rice, a handful of vegetables, and a few pantry staples come together in one skillet for a quick, satisfying meal that’s ready in less than 20 minutes.

This is one of those recipes that’s meant to be flexible. Use the vegetables you have, swap in whatever protein is left from the week, and don’t worry about making it exactly the same every time. It’s a delicious way to clean out the refrigerator before your next grocery trip.

simplegoodfood's avatarsimplegoodfood

Campground Fried Rice

Sometimes the best meals are the ones you never planned.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 390

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups cooked rice day-old rice works best
  • cups cooked Simple Campground Herb Chicken diced
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable or canola oil
  • 2 eggs lightly beaten
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables peas, carrots, corn, green beans, or whatever you have on hand
  • 2 green onions sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil optional, but adds great flavor
  • ¼ teaspoon ground ginger optional
  • Black pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or electric skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Scramble the eggs until just set. Remove them to a plate.
  3. Add the garlic and mixed vegetables. Cook for 3–4 minutes until tender.
  4. Stir in the cooked chicken and rice, breaking up any clumps.
  5. Add the soy sauce, sesame oil, and ground ginger, stirring until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
  6. Return the scrambled eggs to the skillet and gently fold them into the rice.
  7. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and serve immediately.

Notes

Notes
  • Day-old rice makes the best fried rice because it stays fluffy instead of becoming sticky.
  • This recipe is perfect for using up small amounts of leftover vegetables.
  • No chicken left? Try turkey, pork, beef, ham, shrimp, or make it completely vegetarian.
    Do not be afraid to try a new addition to your rice. I’ve even added a handful of grapes one time, which my husband declared “Delicious!”

Leftover & Meal Prep Tips

This recipe is less about following exact measurements and more about using what you already have.

Some great additions include:

  • Leftover broccoli
  • Mushrooms
  • Bell peppers
  • Spinach
  • Cabbage
  • Zucchini
  • Water chestnuts
  • Bean sprouts

If it’s sitting in the refrigerator waiting to be used, chances are it’ll be delicious in fried rice.


Food Storage & Preservation

Cool cooked rice quickly and refrigerate it promptly. Fried rice should always be reheated until steaming hot before serving. If you’re freezing cooked rice or preserving ingredients for future meals, be sure to follow the latest USDA recommendations for safe food storage and preservation practices.

Posted in Arrival Day Dinner, Breakfast

Campground Ham & Cheddar Breakfast-for-Dinner Skillet

After a long day of driving, checking in, and setting up camp, the last thing you want is a complicated dinner. This Campground Ham & Cheddar Breakfast-for-Dinner Skillet comes together in one pan with simple ingredients that are easy to keep in the cooler.

It’s hearty enough for supper, quick enough for arrival day, and just as delicious for breakfast the next morning.

simplegoodfood's avatarsimplegoodfood

Campground Ham & Cheddar Breakfast-for-Dinner Skillet

It's hearty enough for supper, quick enough for arrival day, and just as delicious for breakfast the next morning.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Breakfast, Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 390

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 cups frozen hash browns or refrigerated shredded potatoes
  • 1 cup diced cooked ham
  • ½ cup diced onion
  • ½ cup diced bell pepper
  • 6 large eggs
  • ¼ cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish optional

Method
 

  1. Heat the butter in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the hash browns and cook for 8–10 minutes until lightly browned.
  3. Stir in the ham, onion, and bell pepper. Cook another 4–5 minutes.
  4. Whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  5. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the skillet.
  6. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook until the eggs begin to set.
  7. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the top.
  8. Cover with a lid for 3–4 minutes until the cheese melts and the eggs are fully cooked.
  9. Garnish with parsley or green onions before serving.

Notes

Easy Substitutions
  • Ham: Cooked bacon, breakfast sausage, turkey sausage, or leftover grilled chicken all work well.
  • Hash Browns: Diced potatoes or leftover roasted potatoes make a great substitute.
  • Cheddar: Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, Swiss, or Pepper Jack (for those who like a little heat).
  • Vegetables: Mushrooms, spinach, tomatoes, or zucchini can be added depending on what’s in the cooler.
Camp Cook’s Tips
  • Cook the hash browns until they’re nicely browned before adding the eggs for the best texture.
  • Covering the skillet helps the eggs cook evenly without burning the bottom.
  • A cast-iron skillet retains heat well, making it ideal for camp cooking.
  • Prep the onion and pepper at home to make arrival-day cooking even faster.
Serving Suggestions
  • Buttered toast or English muffins
  • Fresh fruit
  • Orange juice
  • Camp coffee
  • Salsa or hot sauce on the side
Storage
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
🥪 Leftover Lunch Idea
Slice leftover skillet into wedges and tuck one into an English muffin or tortilla for an easy breakfast sandwich before heading out for the day’s adventures.
Stretch Your Camping Dollar
This recipe is perfect for using up leftover holiday ham or the last few slices from sandwich lunches. You can also toss in vegetables that need to be used before heading home, making it a great way to reduce food waste while creating a filling meal.

#GoodFoodGoodMeat, #SimplePracticalMeals, #RealFoodRealLife,
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Posted in Skillet Meals

Creamy Ranch Chicken Pasta

When you’re camping, sometimes you just want a comforting meal that’s quick to make and easy to clean up. This Creamy Ranch Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken, pasta, a rich ranch-seasoned cream sauce, and melted cheddar cheese into one satisfying skillet meal that’s perfect after a day outdoors.

Best of all, it comes together in about 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy campground evenings.

simplegoodfood's avatarsimplegoodfood

Creamy Ranch Chicken Pasta

This easy Creamy Ranch Chicken Pasta comes together in about 30 minutes and is the perfect comfort food after a day of camping adventures.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 495

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked chicken diced or shredded
  • 8 ounces rotini or penne pasta
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup milk
  • 4 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese softened
  • 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Chopped parsley for garnish optional

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  3. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the chicken broth, milk, cream cheese, ranch seasoning, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Stir until smooth.
  5. Add the cooked chicken and simmer for 3–4 minutes.
  6. Stir in the cooked pasta.
  7. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
  8. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Easy Substitutions
  • Chicken: Leftover grilled chicken, rotisserie chicken, or turkey all work well.
  • Pasta: Penne, rotini, shells, or bow ties can be used interchangeably.
  • Cheese: Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or mozzarella can replace cheddar.
  • Milk: Evaporated milk makes an extra creamy sauce and stores well in the pantry until opened.
Cream Cheese: Neufchâtel cheese is a lighter substitute with a similar texture.
Serving Suggestions
  • Garlic bread
  • Steamed broccoli
  • Green beans
  • Garden salad
  • Sliced tomatoes
  • Fresh fruit for dessert
Storage
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture.
🥪 Leftover Lunch Idea
Warm leftovers for an easy lunch, or spoon the creamy chicken pasta into a tortilla, sprinkle with a little extra cheddar, and toast it in a skillet for a crispy chicken ranch wrap.

#GoodFoodGoodMeat, #SimplePracticalMeals, #RealFoodRealLife,
#SummerCampgroundMeals, #CookingForOneOrTwo,

#ChickenPasta, #CreamyPasta, #CampgroundCooking, #OneSkilletMeal, #EasyCampingMeals, #ChickenRecipes, #ComfortFood, #RVRecipes,
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