Chicken with summer vegetables

Summer Vegetable Chicken - a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make recipe, perfect for warm days when we want to enjoy the natural flavors of fresh ingredients. This recipe combines the juicy meat of chicken with summer vegetables, creating a dish that will not only delight your taste buds but will also bring a splash of joy to your kitchen.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Recipe history:
Dishes with chicken and vegetables have often been celebrated in kitchens around the world, as they reflect the simplicity and beauty of seasonal ingredients. This recipe is a modern interpretation of a classic dish, highlighting fresh summer ingredients. The combination of aromatic herbs and colorful vegetables not only makes the dish appetizing but also healthy.

Ingredients:
For the chicken:
- 1 chicken (approximately 900 g)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley leaves, chopped
- Sea salt, to taste

For the vegetables:
- 300 g peas
- 450 g zucchini, peeled and chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
- 4 green onions, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, chopped
- 200 ml white wine
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- Sea salt, to taste

Preparation:
1. Start by preheating the oven to 190°C. Make sure it is well heated, as a constant temperature is crucial for achieving tender and golden chicken.

2. In a bowl, mix the olive oil with the lemon zest and juice, aromatic herbs (basil, thyme, and parsley), and a pinch of sea salt. This marinade will give the chicken a fresh and delicious flavor.

3. Rub the chicken well with this mixture, ensuring that every corner of the meat is covered. This is a key step for achieving flavorful chicken.

4. Place the chicken in a heat-resistant dish and put it in the oven for 20 minutes. This will help open up the flavors and seal in the juices.

5. Meanwhile, prepare the vegetables. Boil the peas in salted water for about 15 minutes until they become soft. Once done, drain them well.

6. In a large bowl, mix the boiled peas with the chopped zucchini, red bell pepper, green onions, and garlic. Add salt to taste to enhance the flavors of the vegetables.

7. Now, prepare the sauce from the white wine, balsamic vinegar, and brown sugar. Mix well to combine the ingredients. This sauce will add a note of acidity and sweetness to the dish.

8. Remove the chicken from the oven and place it on a plate. In the same heat-resistant dish, add the mixed vegetables and pour the wine and vinegar sauce over them. Gently stir to combine the ingredients.

9. Then place the chicken on top of the vegetables and return everything to the oven for another hour. This baking time will allow the chicken to become tender and golden, while the vegetables soften and absorb the delicious flavors.

10. After the time is up, take the dish out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This step will ensure that the chicken's juices stay inside.

Serving:
This summer vegetable chicken is delicious served alongside a fresh green salad or with a portion of basmati rice. You can also add a few slices of lemon or lime for a touch of freshness on the plate. A bottle of dry white wine will perfectly complement the meal.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is rich in protein, thanks to the chicken, and contains a variety of vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables. Peas and zucchini are excellent sources of fiber, contributing to healthy digestion. Additionally, fresh herbs not only bring flavor but also important antioxidants for health.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use chicken of a different size?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe according to the size of the chicken, but make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

2. What vegetables can I add?
This recipe is versatile, and you can add vegetables such as carrots, eggplants, or potatoes, depending on your preferences.

3. Is this recipe suitable for a diet?
Yes, it is a healthy option, but it is important to control portions, considering the oil and wine.

Possible variations:
- Instead of white wine, you can use red wine for a deeper flavor.
- You can add spices like paprika or chili for a bit of heat.
- Replace some of the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.

Summer vegetable chicken is not just a recipe, but a culinary experience that will bring you joy and satisfaction. So, put on your chef's clothes and let your imagination soar, as cooking is an art that deserves to be savored every moment!