Chicken Breast with Veggies
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A delicious and healthy chicken breast dish loaded with fresh vegetables.
This Chicken Breast with Veggies recipe is a perfect weeknight dinner option. It's packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for the whole family.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Tender and juicy chicken breasts cooked to perfection
- Vibrant veggies that add both flavor and nutrition
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
A Healthy Choice for Any Meal
Chicken breast is a fantastic source of lean protein, making it an ideal choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. It is low in fat and high in essential nutrients, providing your body with the fuel it needs for an active lifestyle. By incorporating a variety of colorful vegetables, this dish not only becomes visually appealing but also packs a nutritional punch, ensuring you get a balanced meal in every bite.
The combination of chicken and vegetables in this recipe allows you to explore different flavors and textures. Each ingredient plays a role in enhancing the overall taste, making it a delightful experience for your palate. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or a meal prep for the week, this dish is versatile and satisfying.
Perfect for Busy Weeknights
In today’s fast-paced world, finding the time to cook healthy meals can be a challenge. This Chicken Breast with Veggies recipe is designed with busy schedules in mind. With a cooking time of just under 30 minutes, you can have a nutritious and delicious meal on the table without sacrificing quality or flavor.
The straightforward steps make it easy for anyone to whip up this dish, even if you’re not an experienced cook. Simply season, sauté, and serve! Plus, this recipe can be easily adapted to include your favorite vegetables or to use up leftovers in your fridge, making it as convenient as it is tasty.
Tips for Best Results
For the juiciest chicken breasts, consider marinating them for at least 30 minutes before cooking. A simple mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs can enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat. Additionally, using a meat thermometer can help you ensure the chicken is cooked to perfection, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
When it comes to vegetables, feel free to mix and match based on your preferences or seasonal availability. Zucchini, asparagus, or snap peas can all make excellent additions. Just remember to cook them until they're tender yet still crisp to retain their nutrients and vibrant colors.
Ingredients
Gather all the fresh ingredients before you start cooking.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Make sure to wash all the veggies thoroughly before use.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create a delicious chicken breast dish.
Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Sauté the Veggies
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the mixed bell peppers and broccoli, cooking until tender.
Cook the Chicken
Push the veggies to the side of the skillet and add the chicken breasts. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
Combine and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked, mix it with the veggies, and serve hot.
Enjoy your healthy meal!
Nutritional Benefits
Incorporating chicken breast into your diet provides numerous health benefits. It is rich in protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Additionally, the vitamins and minerals found in the accompanying vegetables, such as vitamin C from bell peppers and fiber from broccoli, contribute to overall health, supporting your immune system and promoting digestive health.
This dish is not just filling; it's also low in calories, making it a great option for those mindful of their weight. With the right balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, you can enjoy a meal that satisfies your hunger without compromising your dietary goals.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate this dish, consider serving it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice. These whole grains will add an extra layer of texture and make the meal even more filling. You could also top it with a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added flavor.
For a complete dining experience, pair this chicken and veggies dish with a side salad or some whole grain bread. A light vinaigrette or a simple lemon dressing can complement the flavors beautifully, providing a refreshing balance to the meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes for a great lunch option for the following days. When reheating, be sure to do so gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to maintain the chicken's tenderness and the vegetables' crispness.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken and veggies in freezer-safe bags. Just make sure to label them with the date. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed for a quick and convenient meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, just ensure to thaw them completely before cooking.
→ What other vegetables can I add?
You can add zucchini, carrots, or any of your favorite veggies.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I grill the chicken instead of sautéing it?
Absolutely! Grilling will add a nice smoky flavor.
Chicken Breast with Veggies
A delicious and healthy chicken breast dish loaded with fresh vegetables.
Created by: Arielle Baxter
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
How-To Steps
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the mixed bell peppers and broccoli, cooking until tender.
Push the veggies to the side of the skillet and add the chicken breasts. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
Once the chicken is cooked, mix it with the veggies, and serve hot.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 40g