Oven-baked chicken with eggplant, zucchini, and tomatoes

Oven-baked chicken with eggplant, zucchini, and tomatoes – a delicious and healthy recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Introduction
Cooking is an art that brings people together, and the recipe for oven-baked chicken with eggplant, zucchini, and tomatoes is the perfect example of a dish that not only delights your taste buds but also brings your family to the table. This recipe is a superb combination of protein, fresh vegetables, and Mediterranean flavors, making it ideal for a tasty and healthy dinner. Whether you are a beginner cook or a kitchen master, the steps below will guide you to a perfect result.

Recipe History
Over time, chicken and vegetable recipes have been appreciated for their versatility and flavor. Chicken, as the main ingredient, is an excellent source of protein and pairs perfectly with seasonal vegetables. Eggplants and zucchinis are vegetables that frequently appear in Mediterranean dishes, bringing not only a pleasant texture but also a rich taste. This recipe is a tribute to the simplicity and joy of cooking, emphasizing fresh ingredients and accessible cooking techniques.

Ingredients
- 4 large skinless chicken breasts (about 1 kg)
- 2 medium eggplants, diced
- 2 zucchinis, diced
- 2 small green onions, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, chopped
- 4-5 plum tomatoes, peeled, seeded, and chopped (or 1 can of canned tomatoes)
- 1 glass (330 ml) of dry white wine
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil
- A handful of fresh thyme
- A handful of fresh rosemary
- Sea salt and pepper, to taste
- A little fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparing the Ingredients
1. Preparing the eggplant: Start by sprinkling salt on the diced eggplant and placing them in a strainer. Let them sit for 30 minutes. This step is essential to remove the bitterness specific to eggplants. After draining, rinse them under cold water and dry them with a paper towel.

2. Preheating the oven: Preheat the oven to 190 degrees Celsius. This will ensure even baking of the dish.

Cooking the Chicken
3. Preparing the chicken: Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet. Add the 4 tablespoons of olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on all sides. If desired, you can also add two chicken thighs for an even richer flavor and texture.

4. Browning the chicken: Place the chicken in the skillet skin-side down. Brown it for 4 minutes, then turn it and fry it on the other side until golden. Transfer the meat to a platter and let it rest.

Preparing the Vegetables
5. Sautéing the vegetables: If necessary, add a little olive oil to the skillet. Add the onion, garlic, diced eggplant, rosemary, and thyme. Sauté the vegetables for 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and the eggplant softens.

6. Adding zucchini and wine: Season the vegetables with salt and pepper to taste. Add the diced zucchini, pour in the white wine, and let everything simmer on low heat until the wine reduces by half. This step will intensify the flavors and create a delicious sauce.

Assembling the Dish
7. Preparing the baking dish: Meanwhile, heat a greased baking dish in the oven.

8. Combining the ingredients: Mix the tomatoes with the sautéed vegetables, then place everything in the baking dish. Arrange the browned chicken breasts on top of the vegetables.

9. Baking: Drizzle the dish with a little olive oil and bake for 20 minutes. Check if the chicken is cooked through, considering the thickness of the meat.

10. Finalizing: Once the dish is ready, sprinkle a little fresh parsley on top for a colorful and fresh appearance.

Serving
Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving on warm plates. It is delicious served alongside crusty bread that will soak up the savory sauce. A fresh green salad or a side of basmati rice perfectly complements this dish.

Suggestions and Variations
- If you wish, you can replace the chicken breast with turkey meat or fish fillets for a lighter option.
- Experiment with other vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to add variety to the recipe.
- Instead of white wine, you can use soy sauce for an Asian twist.

Nutritional Information
This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken and is packed with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables used. It is an excellent choice for a healthy meal, considering that each serving contains approximately 400-500 calories, depending on the amount of oil and other added ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen vegetables? While it is recommended to use fresh vegetables for the best flavors, you can also use frozen vegetables. Make sure to thaw and drain them well before use.
- How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked? Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should be at least 75 degrees Celsius in the center.
- What drinks pair well with this dish? A dry white wine or a cocktail with fresh fruits perfectly complements the flavors of the dish.

Conclusion
Oven-baked chicken with eggplant, zucchini, and tomatoes is a simple yet special dish that combines fresh ingredients and delicious flavors. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or to impress guests, this recipe will surely be a success. Don’t forget to experiment with the ingredients and add your personal touch! Enjoy your meal!