Description
This Colorful One-Pot Chicken & Veggie Delight is a feast for the eyes and taste buds! Juicy, seasoned chicken is cooked alongside vibrant bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and cherry tomatoes in a rich, aromatic sauce. It’s a quick, wholesome meal perfect for busy weeknights, requiring just one pan and 30 minutes to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs – Cut into bite-sized pieces.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the chicken’s natural flavor.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds mild heat.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Brings warmth and depth.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Boosts flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For searing.
For the Veggies:
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced – Sweet and vibrant.
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced – Adds another layer of color.
- 1 zucchini, diced – Tender and slightly crisp.
- 1 large carrot, thinly sliced – A touch of sweetness and crunch.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – Bursts with juicy flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for bold taste.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – For a little heat.
For the Sauce:
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth – Keeps everything moist and flavorful.
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or lemon juice – Adds brightness and balance.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Brings Mediterranean flair.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme – Complements the chicken and veggies.
For Garnish:
- ¼ cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped – A fresh finishing touch.
- Grated Parmesan (optional) – For extra richness.
Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
- Add the chicken to the pan and sear for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed, then sauté the carrots and bell peppers for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
- Stir in the zucchini, cherry tomatoes, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Simmer Everything Together
- Pour in the chicken broth, balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice), oregano, and thyme. Stir to combine.
- Return the chicken to the pan, nestling it into the veggies.
- Cover and simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender.
Step 4: Garnish & Serve
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil and optional Parmesan.
- Serve warm over rice, quinoa, couscous, or enjoy as-is!
Notes
- Use Chicken Thighs for Juicier Results – Thighs stay tender, while chicken breasts may dry out if overcooked.
- Cut Veggies Evenly – This ensures they cook at the same rate.
- Deglaze the Pan for Extra Flavor – Use broth, balsamic vinegar, or lemon juice to lift the browned bits.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pot Cooking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Healthy, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 75mg