Chicken breast with a side of vegetables

Chicken Breast with Vegetable Side - A Tasty and Healthy Recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Introduction:
Welcome to our kitchen, where today we will prepare a delicious chicken breast with a vegetable side, a simple and healthy recipe perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends. This recipe is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, thanks to the combination of fresh vegetables. Let's embark together on a culinary adventure where each ingredient has its own story!

Necessary Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or sunflower oil)
- 400 g chickpeas (can be canned or boiled)
- 150 g butter
- 2 carrots
- 1 onion
- 1 small cauliflower
- 2 tablespoons of pine nuts
- 1 sweet potato
- Half a broccoli
- 1 red bell pepper
- A bunch of fresh parsley
- Cumin (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- Paprika (sweet or hot, to preference)
- Coriander (optional)

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the Chicken Breast:
Start by removing the skin from the chicken breast. Use a sharp knife to slice it thinly, similar to schnitzel, but without pounding it. This technique will help retain the juiciness of the meat.

2. Marinating the Chicken:
In a bowl, combine the slices of chicken breast with a tablespoon of olive oil, salt, paprika, coriander, and chopped parsley. Make sure each slice is well coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate for 30 minutes. This step will add intense flavor and make the meat more tender.

3. Preparing the Vegetable Side:
Meanwhile, clean all the vegetables. Cut the cauliflower into small florets and place them in a bowl. Add the remaining olive oil, salt, pepper, and cumin. Mix well to coat the cauliflower with the spices. Place the cauliflower on a baking tray and roast it for 30 minutes at 180°C.

4. The Remaining Vegetables:
In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and diced sweet potato. Sauté them for about 10 minutes until they become slightly golden and soft. When they are almost done, add the broccoli florets and continue cooking for 5 minutes.

5. Finalizing the Dishes:
After 30 minutes, add the drained chickpeas and pine nuts to the baking tray with the cauliflower. Let it bake for another 15 minutes so that all the flavors blend perfectly.

6. Cooking the Chicken Breast:
Meanwhile, remove the chicken breast from the marinade. You can wrap each slice in parchment paper to retain the juiciness. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the slices of chicken breast. Cook each slice for 2 minutes on each side or until golden and fully cooked.

7. Serving:
Serve the chicken breast on a bed of colorful vegetables. It’s a vitamin-packed meal, perfect to enjoy alongside a fresh green salad or a side of quinoa.

Serving Suggestions:
A squeeze of lemon juice over the dish can enhance the flavors, and an arugula salad with cherry tomatoes and feta cheese will add a touch of freshness.

Possible Variations:
You can replace the chicken breast with fish fillets or tofu for a vegetarian option. Additionally, the vegetables can be adjusted according to the season or your personal preferences. Broccoli can be swapped for zucchini or asparagus for a variety of flavors.

Nutritional Benefits:
This recipe is not only delicious but also rich in nutrients. Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, and the vegetables provide important fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Chickpeas are a good source of plant-based protein and iron, while pine nuts add essential fatty acids.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other vegetables?
Yes, you can substitute the vegetables with your favorites, such as zucchini or eggplant.

- How can I make the recipe spicier?
You can add a bit of hot paprika or chopped chili pepper to the marinade.

- How long can I store the dish?
The dish can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container.

We hope this chicken breast with vegetable side recipe quickly becomes one of your favorites! With each bite, you will feel the joy of cooking at home and the satisfaction of enjoying healthy and delicious meals. Enjoy!