Colorful One-Pot Chicken & Veggie Delight (A Healthy Feast)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is packed with flavor and color, making it as visually appealing as it is tasty. The combination of juicy chicken and fresh veggies like broccoli, zucchini, and bell peppers creates a nutrient-dense meal that’s low in calories but high in flavor. The spices elevate the dish, while the one-pot method ensures easy preparation and minimal cleanup. It’s a balanced and wholesome option for anyone looking for a healthy and delicious dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch pieces)
• Salt and fresh ground black pepper (to taste)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ to ½ teaspoon chili powder (adjust to heat preference)
• 1 small yellow onion (thinly sliced)
• 3 cups bite-size broccoli florets
• 1 zucchini (thinly sliced and cut into half-moons)
• 1 small yellow bell pepper (cut into 1-inch chunks)
• 1 small red bell pepper (cut into 1-inch chunks)
• ¼ cup low sodium chicken broth (or dry white wine, apple juice, or water)
• Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Season the chicken:
   In a bowl, season the chicken breast pieces with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, paprika, and chili powder. Toss well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices.
2. Cook the chicken:
   Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables:
   In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced yellow onion, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
4. Add the remaining vegetables:
   Add the broccoli florets, zucchini, yellow bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Stir well and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly while still retaining their color and crunch.
5. Deglaze the pan:
   Pour in the chicken broth (or your preferred liquid) and stir to deglaze the bottom of the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the skillet. Bring the broth to a simmer and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
6. Combine chicken and veggies:
   Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and the flavors meld together.
7. Garnish and serve:
   Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Serve the colorful one-pot chicken and veggie delight immediately, either as a standalone dish or over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for a more filling meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add more veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Make it spicy: If you like more heat, increase the amount of chili powder or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the dish.
• Make it low-carb: For a low-carb version, serve this dish over cauliflower rice or enjoy it as is without a grain base.
• Herb variations: You can substitute the dried thyme and rosemary with fresh herbs like basil or oregano for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover chicken and veggie delight in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the dish in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent it from drying out. You can also microwave it for a quicker option.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work well in this recipe. They will be juicier and slightly more flavorful, though you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

Can I add other types of vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, peas, or green beans, depending on what you have on hand or your personal preference.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth or other liquids. Just make sure the seasonings don’t contain any hidden gluten.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and vegetables up to 2 days ahead of time and store them separately. When ready to serve, simply combine them in a skillet and warm through.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, you can swap the chicken for a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh. Adjust the cooking times accordingly.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add more spice, increase the amount of chili powder or add fresh chopped jalapeños or other chili peppers to the mix.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

While fresh vegetables will provide the best texture and flavor, frozen vegetables can be used if fresh ones are unavailable. Just be sure to cook them until heated through but not mushy.

Can I add a grain to this dish?

Yes, this dish pairs wonderfully with grains like brown rice, quinoa, or couscous. Simply serve it over the grain of your choice for a more substantial meal.

How do I prevent the vegetables from becoming too soft?

To retain the vegetables’ crispness, avoid overcooking them. Sauté them until they are just tender but still vibrant in color.

Can I freeze leftovers?

You can freeze the chicken and vegetable mixture for up to 1 month. When reheating, add a little broth to keep it moist.

Conclusion

Colorful One-Pot Chicken & Veggie Delight is a quick, easy, and healthy meal packed with flavor, nutrients, and vibrant colors. This dish is perfect for those looking to enjoy a wholesome dinner with minimal cleanup. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs makes this a go-to recipe for any weeknight feast. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be customized with your favorite veggies or proteins!

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