Chicken Breast with Vegetables

Chicken Breast with Vegetables: A Tasty and Nutritious Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to the world of culinary delights! Today, I invite you to prepare a delicious recipe for chicken breast with vegetables, a dish that combines flavors and textures in a delightful way. This recipe is not only simple but also full of colors and nutrients, making it perfect for a healthy family dinner or to impress friends at a festive meal.

The history of this dish is straightforward, based on easily accessible ingredients and the technique of frying, which has been used since ancient times. This recipe brings together tender chicken breast, fresh vegetables, and a splash of pineapple, creating a combination of flavors that blends sweet, salty, and tangy.

Ingredients

- 2 pieces of chicken breast (about 500 g)
- 2 whole leeks
- 5-6 medium potatoes
- 2-3 tablespoons of canned corn
- 4-5 slices of pineapple
- 4-5 cloves of garlic
- 1/2 head of garlic
- 1 onion
- 1/2 cup red wine
- Thyme
- Oil (preferably olive)
- Salt, pepper, chili powder (to taste)

Instructions

1. Preparing the Marinade:
Start by preparing the marinade for the chicken breast. In a bowl, combine 1/2 head of crushed garlic, finely chopped onion, red wine, and a few thyme leaves. Mix well and add the chicken breast cut into cubes of about 3-4 cm. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate for an hour in the refrigerator. This is the stage where the meat absorbs the flavors, becoming more tasty.

2. Preparing the Vegetables:
Meanwhile, clean and wash the vegetables. Cut the leeks into pieces of 3-4 cm and the potatoes into cubes of approximately the same size. These sizes ensure even cooking.

3. Cooking the Leeks:
In a heated skillet with a little oil, add the leeks and let them sauté until they become soft, about 5-7 minutes. Once ready, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

4. Cooking the Potatoes:
In the same skillet, add the cut potatoes. Cook them until they become golden and crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove them from the skillet and let them rest on the paper towel alongside the leeks.

5. Cooking the Chicken Breast:
Drain the marinade from the chicken breast and add it to the skillet, cooking until it turns golden and well-done, about 8-10 minutes. It is important not to overcrowd the skillet to allow the chicken to brown evenly.

6. Adding the Pineapple:
Cut the pineapple slices into triangles or cubes. Add them to the skillet and let them cook for 2-3 minutes until they become slightly caramelized.

7. Combining the Ingredients:
In a baking dish, layer the leeks, potatoes, and chicken breast, adding 3-4 tablespoons of pineapple juice. Gently mix to combine all the ingredients. This step will add a touch of sweetness and acidity to the dish.

8. Finalizing the Dish:
Place the dish in the preheated oven at 180°C for 10-15 minutes. This time will allow the ingredients to meld and develop a delicious aroma.

9. Serving:
Remove the dish from the oven and garnish with thin strips of leeks, cut lengthwise, and optionally, a few leaves of green salad for a fresh look. Serve the dish warm, alongside a simple salad or a side of rice.

Useful Tip

For an extra burst of flavor, you can add some spices like smoked paprika or a pinch of chili to intensify the taste. Also, feel free to experiment with different seasonal vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to diversify the recipe.

Nutritional Benefits

This chicken breast with vegetables recipe is not only tasty but also nutritious. Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, while the vegetables provide important vitamins and minerals. Additionally, pineapple adds a healthy dose of vitamin C and antioxidants.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use another meat instead of chicken breast?
Yes, this recipe can also be adapted with turkey meat or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

- How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven or skillet before serving.

- What drinks pair well with this recipe?
A dry white wine or a refreshing fruit cocktail would perfectly complement this meal.

Possible Variations

To customize this recipe, you can add spices like curry or soy sauce for an Asian twist. You can also substitute pineapple with mango or peaches for a different flavor.

I hope this chicken breast with vegetables recipe brings you joy in the kitchen and at your tables! Experiment with the ingredients and feel free to share the results with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!