Chicken with vegetables

Chicken with Vegetables – A Healthy and Colorful Delight

If you're looking for a simple, quick, and healthy recipe where chicken and vegetables intertwine in a symphony of flavors, you've come to the right place! This chicken with vegetables recipe is perfect for a family dinner, and the combination of ingredients will not only provide you with a delicious dish but also nutritional benefits. Get ready to discover how to create a savory meal that will not only delight your taste buds but also add a splash of color to your plate.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 1 chicken breast (about 400 g)
- 400 g mushrooms (e.g., champignon or shiitake)
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 medium zucchini
- 2 carrots
- 1 small bunch of broccoli
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 50 ml water
- Spicy seasoning (to taste)
- Olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)

Step-by-step Preparation:

1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by washing all the vegetables thoroughly. Slice the mushrooms thinly, cut the carrots into strips (or use a julienne peeler for more uniform strips), slice the bell pepper thinly, and cube the zucchini for even cooking. Cut the chicken breast into cubes or strips, depending on your preference.

2. Sautéing the Mushrooms
In a wok, add a splash of oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and let them sauté. You will notice they will release a bit of water. That's normal, don't worry! Once the water has evaporated, continue cooking for another 5 minutes, then remove them to a plate and set aside.

3. Cooking the Chicken
In the same pan, add another splash of oil. When the oil is hot, add the chicken cubes. Stir gently until the chicken turns white all over. This step is essential to seal in the juices, keeping the chicken tender.

4. Adding the Vegetables
Now it's time to add all the chopped vegetables – carrots, zucchini, bell pepper, and sautéed mushrooms. Mix everything well and add 50 ml of water (or as needed to help steam the vegetables). Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite spicy seasoning.

5. Thickening the Sauce
After about 10 minutes, when the vegetables start to become tender, prepare an emulsion of 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water. Add the mixture to the pan and continue to stir. This will thicken the sauce and add a creamy texture. Add the soy sauce and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.

6. Cooking the Broccoli
In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the broccoli florets. Boil them for 3 minutes until they are vibrant and slightly crunchy. Once done, transfer them to ice water. This thermal shock will preserve the bright green color of the broccoli.

7. Assembling and Serving
Once the chicken with vegetables is ready, add the boiled broccoli to the pan and stir gently to combine all the ingredients. Serve this delicious mixture alongside a side of boiled or fried rice. You can use basmati rice or even brown rice for a healthier option.

Serving Suggestions:
For an extra flavor boost, you can sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top before serving or add a few fresh coriander or parsley leaves. Additionally, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top will add a refined taste.

Tips and Variations:
- Vary the Vegetables: Don't limit yourself to these vegetables! You can add peas, cauliflower, or even spinach for an extra vitamin boost.
- Alternative Proteins: If you're not a fan of chicken, you can replace the meat with tofu or shrimp for a vegetarian or seafood dish.
- Spices: Experiment with Asian spices like ginger or garlic to add an aromatic touch.

Nutritional Information:
This recipe is an excellent source of protein due to the chicken and fresh vegetables, offering a rich mix of vitamins and minerals. It is also low in calories and fats, making it ideal for a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I prepare the recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and vegetables a few hours ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.

2. How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add chili sauce or chili flakes during cooking to enhance the spicy flavor.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or a pale ale would perfectly complement the flavors of this dish. Additionally, a chilled green tea would be an excellent choice!

Now that you have all the details for this chicken with vegetables recipe, it's time to start cooking! Enjoy every step and let your creativity shine in the kitchen. Bon appétit!