Chicken Breast with Veggies
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A delightful and healthy dish featuring tender chicken breast paired with vibrant, sautéed vegetables.
This Chicken Breast with Veggies recipe is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrition. A perfect meal for busy weeknights!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Juicy chicken breast cooked to perfection
- Colorful and nutritious veggies for a balanced meal
- Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for weeknight dinners
Nutritional Benefits
This Chicken Breast with Veggies recipe not only delights the palate but also nourishes the body. Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Incorporating mixed vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli adds a wealth of vitamins and minerals. Each vegetable contributes unique health benefits, from the vitamin C in bell peppers to the antioxidants found in broccoli, making this dish a powerhouse of nutrition.
Moreover, using olive oil as a cooking fat provides healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases. This combination of lean protein and colorful vegetables ensures you are fueling your body with what it needs to thrive. Enjoying a balanced meal like this can support overall health and wellness.
Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the standout features of this Chicken Breast with Veggies recipe is its suitability for meal prep. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can prepare a week's worth of nutritious meals in one go. This is particularly beneficial for anyone with a busy lifestyle who wants to maintain healthy eating habits without spending hours in the kitchen.
To meal prep, cook the chicken and veggies as directed, then divide them into individual containers. Store them in the fridge for up to four days or freeze for longer storage. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. This approach not only saves time but also helps you avoid unhealthy takeout options.
Customization Ideas
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the mixed vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Feel free to swap in asparagus, carrots, or even snap peas to create your perfect veggie medley. Additionally, if you prefer a different flavor profile, try adding spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken breasts in your favorite sauce or dressing for a few hours before cooking. This not only infuses the chicken with delicious flavors but also enhances the overall dish. Whether you prefer it spicy, tangy, or herbaceous, the adaptability of this recipe ensures it will never get boring.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Veggies
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, broccoli)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Make sure to wash and chop your vegetables before starting the cooking process.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Veggies
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and mixed vegetables. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the veggies are tender but still crisp.
Combine and Serve
Return the chicken to the skillet with the vegetables, stir to combine, and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Serve hot.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy chicken breast with veggies!
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Breast with Veggies dish is delightful on its own, but it can be paired with a variety of sides to create a more filling meal. Consider serving it alongside a bed of quinoa or brown rice for added fiber and nutrients. Both options complement the flavors of the chicken and vegetables without overshadowing them.
For a fresh twist, a side salad with a light vinaigrette can enhance the meal's overall appeal. The crisp greens and tangy dressing offer a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory chicken and veggies. Alternatively, a slice of whole-grain bread can be a great accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any residual juices.
Storage Tips
To keep this dish fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This ensures you can enjoy the flavors without compromising food safety. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to maintain the chicken's tenderness and the vegetables' crispness.
If you opt to freeze this dish, it's best to separate the chicken and veggies before freezing, as they may have different reheating times. When you're ready to enjoy your meal, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat until hot. This makes it a convenient option for those busy weeknights when you crave a home-cooked meal without the prep.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be used. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before cooking.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-frying?
Absolutely! Grilling the chicken will add a nice smoky flavor.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
Chicken Breast with Veggies
A delightful and healthy dish featuring tender chicken breast paired with vibrant, sautéed vegetables.
Created by: Perrie Lawson
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken and Veggies
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, broccoli)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
How-To Steps
Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and mixed vegetables. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the veggies are tender but still crisp.
Return the chicken to the skillet with the vegetables, stir to combine, and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Serve hot.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 40g