Why You Should Make Chicken with Mixed Vegetables
This chicken with mixed vegetables recipe is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while still getting a good dose of protein. It’s also a great option for those who are gluten-free or following a low-carb diet. The dish is easy to make, takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, and is perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cups of broccoli florets
- 1 cup of sliced carrots
- 1/2 cup of chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon of cornstarch
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side or until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet and sauté onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes or until onion is translucent.
- Add sliced bell peppers, broccoli florets, and sliced carrots to the skillet and sauté for another 5-6 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
- In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, soy sauce, and cornstarch until well combined.
- Pour the sauce over the vegetables and stir well. Cook for another 1-2 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Variations
Vegetarian Option
If you’re a vegetarian, you can easily make this dish by substituting the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Simply marinate the tofu or tempeh in the sauce for 15-30 minutes before cooking it in the same way as the chicken.
Vegan Option
To make this recipe vegan, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh.
Spicier Version
If you like your food spicy, you can add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the skillet when sautéing the vegetables.
Mediterranean Version
For a Mediterranean twist, add some sliced kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese to the dish before serving.
Stir-Fry Version
You can turn this recipe into a stir-fry by slicing the chicken and vegetables into smaller pieces and stir-frying them together in a wok or large skillet. Add some sesame oil and sesame seeds for extra flavor.
FAQ
Can I use frozen mixed vegetables instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen mixed vegetables instead of fresh ones. Just make sure to thaw them before adding them to the dish.
How long should I cook the chicken for?
Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side on medium heat or until it’s no longer pink in the middle. However, the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?
Yes, you can use other types of meat such as beef or pork. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Do I need to marinate the chicken before cooking?
No, you don’t need to marinate the chicken before cooking. However, if you like you can marinate the chicken for a few hours before cooking to enhance the flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
Yes, you can add other vegetables such as broccoli, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I use other types of seasoning instead of salt and pepper?
Yes, you can use other types of seasoning such as garlic powder, paprika, or cumin. However, we recommend using salt and pepper as a base seasoning and adding other seasonings to taste.
Can I use olive oil instead of vegetable oil?
Yes, you can use olive oil instead of vegetable oil. However, olive oil has a lower smoke point than vegetable oil, so make sure to use it on medium heat.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly as chicken thighs take longer to cook than chicken breasts.
Can I use canned vegetables instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use canned vegetables instead of fresh ones. However, fresh vegetables are healthier and have a better texture than canned ones.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.