Spicy chicken with vegetables

Spicy Chicken with Vegetables - a delicious and easy-to-make recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Introduction

The kitchen is a magical place where flavors intertwine, and simple ingredients transform into extraordinary dishes. The spicy chicken with vegetables recipe I will share today combines the intense flavor of spices with the freshness of vegetables, providing a healthy and tasty meal. This recipe is perfect for a quick family dinner or to impress guests with a colorful and flavorful choice. Whether you are a novice cook or an experienced chef, this recipe will help you discover a delicious and healthy combination.

Ingredients

To make this spicy chicken with vegetables, you need the following ingredients:

- 600 g chicken breast (opt for fresh, high-quality meat)
- 1 yellow onion (adds sweetness and flavor)
- 1 red bell pepper (adds a crunchy note and color)
- 4 tomatoes (choose juicy ones, ideal for sauce)
- 2 carrots (contribute natural sweetness and vitamins)
- 2 tablespoons of oil (olive oil or sunflower oil)
- 2 tablespoons of sweet paprika (for a deep flavor!)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon curry (for an exotic taste)
- 1 bunch of parsley/dill (fresh greens add freshness)
- 1 hot pepper (optional, for spice lovers)
- 1/2 lemon (juice adds acidity and intensifies flavors)

Precious details about the ingredients

Chicken breast is an excellent source of protein, and by cooking it with vegetables, you achieve a nutritionally balanced meal. Carrots, tomatoes, and bell peppers are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy diet. If you don't have fresh dill, no worries! Dried dill is an excellent alternative, retaining its flavor.

Step by step - Cooking the spicy chicken

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing all the vegetables. Cut the chicken breast into cubes of about 2-3 cm, so it cooks evenly. You can cut the onion and pepper into large pieces, and the carrots into rounds. Dice the tomatoes, and chop the dill and parsley finely. If you like it spicy, chop the hot pepper as well.

2. Seasoning the chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken cubes with salt, pepper, sweet paprika, and curry. Mix well to ensure each piece is coated with spices. This step is essential for getting flavorful chicken.

3. Cooking the chicken: Heat the oil in a large pan over high heat. Add the chicken breast and fry for 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked on the outside. Don't forget to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. Adding the vegetables: Once the chicken is fried, add the onion, red pepper, carrot, and tomatoes to the pan. Stir everything for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and release their flavors.

5. Creating the sauce: Add the lemon juice and 100 ml of water to the pan. Mix well and add the hot pepper (if using). Cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes until the vegetables are cooked and the chicken is tender.

6. Serving: Once the dish is ready, remove the pan from the heat. Sprinkle the chopped dill and parsley over the spicy chicken. You can serve this dish with a spoonful of sour cream, which will add a creamy note and balance the spiciness.

Customized version

For a unique twist, you can add some green or black olives to the vegetable mix, which will bring a Mediterranean flavor. You can also replace the chicken breast with turkey for a lighter option.

Delicious pairings

This spicy chicken with vegetables pairs wonderfully with plain rice or a quinoa side for a healthy meal. You can also combine this dish with a fresh summer salad for a refreshing contrast.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is not only delicious but also offers numerous nutritional benefits. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, while the vegetables provide a significant amount of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. This dish is rich in antioxidants, contributing to a healthy immune system.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can use turkey or even pork, but the cooking time will change.
2. How can I make this dish spicier? Add more hot pepper or a few flakes of hot pepper during cooking.
3. What can I do with the leftovers? The spicy chicken with vegetables keeps well in the fridge and can be enjoyed the next day, either warm or cold, in sandwiches.

Useful tips

- Buy seasonal vegetables for a more intense flavor and better taste.
- Cook over high heat to achieve a beautiful crust on the chicken.
- Don't rush to stir the vegetables too much; let them caramelize slightly for a deeper flavor.

In conclusion, spicy chicken with vegetables is a simple and flavorful recipe that can quickly become a family favorite. With a bit of patience and experimentation, you can create a dish that blends tradition with culinary creativity. Enjoy your meal!