Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy meal that's also quick to prepare? Then look no further! This Zucchini Tomato Chicken recipe is your answer. It's a fantastic blend of fresh summer flavors, packed with protein and vegetables, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game with this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prep the Veggies: Start by washing and preparing all your vegetables. Slice the zucchini, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. Mince the garlic cloves. Having everything prepped before you start cooking will make the process much smoother.
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Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the cubed chicken with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the seasonings.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sliced red onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break up any larger chunks of chicken to ensure even cooking.
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Add Zucchini and Tomatoes: Add the sliced zucchini and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir everything together gently to combine.
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Simmer & Serve: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the sauce has slightly thickened. Give it a good stir halfway through to ensure even cooking. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
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Garnish & Enjoy: Once cooked, garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. This delicious and healthy dish pairs perfectly with a side of quinoa, rice, or a simple green salad.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a large amount of chicken, cook it in batches to ensure even browning and cooking.
- Adjust seasonings to your liking: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile. A pinch of lemon zest would be a great addition!
- Add some cheese: For a richer flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the dish during the last few minutes of cooking.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to this recipe.
- Use different protein: Substitute the chicken with shrimp, sausage, or tofu for a different twist.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream at the end for a creamy sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of lean protein and fiber. Nutritional values will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. A general estimate for one serving is around 300-350 calories, with moderate amounts of fat, carbohydrates, and protein. This makes it a great option for a healthy and delicious meal.
This Zucchini Tomato Chicken recipe is a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful meal. It's perfect for busy weeknights when you want a healthy and delicious dinner on the table fast. Enjoy!