Chicken Breast with Veggies
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A healthy and delicious meal featuring tender chicken breast paired with a colorful array of vegetables.
This chicken breast with veggies is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor and nutrients. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Juicy chicken breast cooked to perfection
- Vibrant vegetables that add color and crunch
- Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
Nutritional Benefits
Chicken breast is a lean protein source, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain or build muscle without excess fat. It's rich in essential amino acids, which are crucial for muscle repair and growth. Incorporating chicken breast into your meals can also help keep you feeling full and satisfied, making it easier to manage portion sizes.
The colorful vegetables in this dish not only enhance its visual appeal but also boost its nutritional profile. Red bell peppers are high in vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports the immune system and promotes healthy skin. Zucchini is low in calories and packed with vitamins A and C, while broccoli offers a wealth of fiber and essential nutrients, including vitamin K and folate.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This Chicken Breast with Veggies recipe is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts. You can easily double the recipe and store the leftovers in the refrigerator for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Simply divide the cooked chicken and veggies into meal containers, and they'll be ready to go when you need them.
Not only does this dish save you time during busy weekdays, but it also allows you to control your ingredients and portions. By preparing your meals in advance, you can avoid the temptation of unhealthy takeout options and ensure that you have nutritious, home-cooked meals at your fingertips.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, consider serving this chicken and veggie dish over a bed of quinoa or brown rice. These whole grains add extra fiber and nutrients, making your meal even more satisfying. You can also drizzle a little balsamic glaze or lemon juice over the top for an added burst of flavor.
If you're looking to add variety, feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on the season or your personal preferences. Asparagus, snap peas, or carrots all make excellent additions. This flexibility ensures that you can customize the dish to suit your taste while still keeping it healthy and delicious.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Gather all your ingredients before starting to make the cooking process smoother.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Then, add the red bell pepper, zucchini, and broccoli. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until tender.
Combine and Serve
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the veggies. Toss to combine and heat through. Serve warm.
Enjoy your meal with a side of rice or quinoa for a complete dish.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. This will help maintain the dish's moisture and flavor, making it taste just as delicious the second time around.
For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken and veggies. Portion them into freezer-safe containers or bags, and they'll last for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed.
Variations to Try
Feel free to adapt this recipe based on your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. For a Mediterranean twist, add olives and feta cheese before serving. If you're looking for a spicy kick, toss in some red pepper flakes or drizzle with sriracha sauce.
For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu. Both alternatives provide a good source of protein and can absorb the flavors of the Italian seasoning and garlic beautifully. This way, everyone can enjoy a delicious, nutritious meal that fits their dietary needs.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
→ What other vegetables can I add?
You can add carrots, snap peas, or asparagus for variety.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and veggies in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Chicken Breast with Veggies
A healthy and delicious meal featuring tender chicken breast paired with a colorful array of vegetables.
Created by: Hallie Foster
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: Serves 4
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 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.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Then, add the red bell pepper, zucchini, and broccoli. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until tender.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the veggies. Toss to combine and heat through. Serve warm.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 35g