Zucchini dish with chicken

Zucchini and Chicken Dish: A Classic and Comforting Recipe

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

Are you looking for a simple and healthy recipe to delight your family? Zucchini and chicken dish is the perfect choice! This recipe combines the delicate taste of zucchini with the savory aroma of chicken, resulting in a dish that will not only satisfy your taste buds but also bring a touch of freshness to your plate.

The history of this recipe dates back to ancient times, being a traditional dish in many cultures, appreciated for its versatility. Zucchini, an easy-to-grow vegetable rich in nutrients, has been used for centuries in various dishes. Combining it with chicken provides a perfect balance of protein and fiber, offering a delicious and healthy lunch or dinner.

Next, I will present the necessary steps to prepare this delicious dish, along with some useful tips.

Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1.5 kg young zucchini
- 2 garlic cloves
- 500 g fresh tomatoes
- 70 ml sunflower or olive oil
- 150 ml water
- 2 tablespoons white wine (optional, but recommended for extra flavor)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- Salt, to taste
- Peppercorns, to taste

Preparation Instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by preparing all the ingredients. Wash the zucchini under cold running water and peel them. Cut them into pieces of about 3-4 cm. The fresh tomatoes should also be peeled. A quick method is to blanch them: make a few shallow cuts on the skin and dip them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer them to cold water. The skin will come off easily. Cut the tomatoes into quarters.

2. Preparing the meat
In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook them until golden brown on all sides. This step is essential for achieving a delicious crust. Once the meat is browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Sautéing the garlic
In the same skillet, add the halved garlic cloves. Sauté the garlic for 5-10 seconds until it turns golden, being careful not to burn it, as it can become bitter.

4. Adding the zucchini and tomatoes
Add the cut zucchini to the skillet along with the blanched tomatoes. Mix well and cook for 5-7 minutes until the zucchini starts to soften. Here you can also add a pinch of salt to help release the juices from the vegetables.

5. Returning the meat to the skillet
Put the chicken thighs back in the skillet next to the zucchini. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Then add the water and white wine (if using) to create a flavorful sauce. This will help cook the meat and add depth to the dish.

6. Simmering
Chop some of the parsley and dill and add them to the skillet. These herbs not only add flavor but also color to the dish. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is well cooked and the juices reduce. Check occasionally and stir gently.

7. Serving
Once the dish is ready, I recommend serving it immediately, sprinkling fresh chopped parsley on top. You can accompany this dish with a side of rice or fresh bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A green salad on the side will perfectly complete your meal.

Practical tips:
- Use young zucchini, as they have a finer texture and a sweeter taste.
- If you want to add extra flavor, you can experiment with other herbs, such as basil or oregano.
- You can replace chicken thighs with chicken or turkey fillets, depending on your preferences.
- If you want a vegetarian option, you can use tofu or tempeh instead of meat.

Nutritional benefits:
This dish is rich in protein due to the chicken and contains plenty of vitamins and minerals from the zucchini and tomatoes. Zucchini is an excellent source of fiber, which contributes to healthy digestion, while tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, such as lycopene, which is beneficial for heart health.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen zucchini? While it's better to use fresh zucchini, you can use frozen zucchini if necessary. Make sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking.
- What type of wine should I use? A dry white wine is ideal, but you can omit the wine if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.
- Can I keep the dish for the next day? Yes, the dish keeps well in the refrigerator and can be reheated.

Pairing suggestions:
This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of white wine or a warm herbal tea. Additionally, a summer salad recipe with tomatoes and cucumbers would add a fresh note to your meal.

I hope this zucchini and chicken dish brings you joy and pleasant moments with your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!