Chicken breast with sautéed vegetables
Chicken Breast with Stewed Vegetables – A Light and Delicious Dinner
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
On a quiet evening when you crave something light, healthy, and quick to prepare, chicken breast with stewed vegetables is the perfect choice. This simple recipe will not only help you prepare a delicious dinner but will also bring a burst of flavor to every bite. From the refined taste of herbs de Provence to the crunchy texture of the vegetables, this dish will surely become a favorite in your culinary routine.
A Bit of History
Chicken with vegetables is a recipe that has been adapted over the years in many kitchens around the world. Each culture has its own approach, but the basic ingredients remain similar: chicken meat and fresh vegetables. This dish is not only tasty but also healthy, being low in calories and rich in nutrients, making it ideal for a light dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 chicken breast (about 500 g)
- 2 large carrots
- 1 medium onion
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 can of red beans (about 400 g)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 cup of water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons of herbs de Provence
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Preparing Chicken Breast with Vegetables
1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by washing the chicken breast thoroughly under cold running water. Pat it dry with paper towels and slice it thinly so it cooks evenly. Peel the vegetables: carrots, onion, and bell pepper. Cut the carrots into rounds, the onion into small cubes, and the bell pepper into strips.
2. Sautéing the Vegetables
In a large skillet, add the two tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become slightly translucent and fragrant. This step is essential as it will give the vegetables a delicious texture and intense flavor.
3. Adding the Chicken Breast
Once the vegetables are sautéed, add the slices of chicken breast to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs de Provence. These herbs are an aromatic blend that adds a note of freshness and an inviting fragrance. Let the chicken sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is lightly browned.
4. Cooking the Dish
After the chicken is browned, add a cup of water to the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer on low heat. It is important to cook the dish on low heat to allow the flavors to develop without evaporating the liquid too quickly. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until all the liquid has reduced and the chicken is well cooked.
5. Adding the Beans
When the water has evaporated, add the drained red beans from the can. Mix well to combine all the ingredients and let them heat together for about 5 minutes. The red beans not only add extra protein but also a pleasant texture to this dish.
6. Serving
Once everything is well combined, remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top. This will add a note of freshness and color. Serve the chicken breast with vegetables warm, alongside a green salad or a portion of basmati rice for a complete meal.
Practical Tips
- Variations: If you want to add other vegetables, you can try zucchini, summer squash, or even mushrooms. These will enrich the taste and texture of the dish.
- For a stronger flavor: You can add a few minced garlic cloves along with the onion at the beginning of cooking. Garlic will give a superb aroma to the dish.
- Reducing calories: Use skinless chicken breast to lower the fat content. You can also replace the olive oil with a cooking spray to better control the amount of fat.
- Preparing in advance: You can chop all the ingredients a few hours before cooking to save time on cooking night.
Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken breast and contains fiber from the vegetables and beans. Additionally, carrots provide essential vitamins like vitamin A, and herbs de Provence contribute to an antioxidant intake. It is a balanced meal that provides energy and necessary nutrients for an active evening.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I replace chicken breast with another type of meat?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs or even turkey meat if you prefer. Cook them a bit longer to ensure they are fully cooked.
- What other side dishes go well with this recipe?
Basmati rice or quinoa are excellent options, but you can also try mashed potatoes or a raw vegetable salad.
Delicious Combinations
To complement this light dinner, I recommend serving it with a glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade. Also, a simple dessert like a fruit salad or yogurt with honey would be a perfect ending to a delicious meal.
Whether you are preparing this recipe for an everyday dinner or a special occasion, chicken breast with stewed vegetables is an excellent choice. With its rich flavor and healthy ingredients, every bite will be a celebration for the senses. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 1 chicken breast, 2 large carrots, 1 onion, 1 bell pepper (red), 1 can of red kidney beans, 2 tablespoons of oil, 1 cup of water, salt and pepper to taste, herbs de Provence, chopped fresh parsley
Tags: chicken chicken with vegetables chicken breast reduced vegetables