Perfectly Balanced One-Pot Chicken and Vegetables

Keyword: one-pot dinner recipes

Looking for a quick, delicious, and nutritious meal that can be prepared in just one pot? Our One-Pot Chicken and Vegetables recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. This dish combines tender chicken with an array of colorful vegetables, all cooked to perfection in a single pot. The result is a balanced meal that is both satisfying and healthy.

This one-pot dinner not only saves time but also minimizes the cleanup involved in cooking. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a hearty and flavorful meal suitable for any family member or even a quick dinner for yourself. The chicken provides essential protein while vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini add vital vitamins and minerals.

Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup water or more to cover vegetables
• 1 cup mixed vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust according to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish, optional

Instructions

1. In a large pot with a lid, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened and slightly golden (about 5 minutes).
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Pour in the can of diced tomatoes and stir to combine well with onions and garlic.
4. Stir in chicken broth, water, mixed vegetables, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Make sure all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
5. Add the chicken pieces on top of the vegetable mixture. The chicken should be fully submerged by the liquid for best results.
6. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cover with a lid and cook until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through (approximately 15-20 minutes).
7. Check periodically to ensure that the vegetables remain covered in the broth, adding more water if needed. The vegetables should be tender but not mushy when done.
8. Once the chicken and vegetables are cooked, taste for seasoning and adjust salt and pepper accordingly. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for extra flavor.

Tips for Success

• To make sure your pot is large enough to accommodate all the ingredients without crowding, it’s best to choose a Dutch oven or any other wide-bottomed pot that can hold all the items comfortably. Crowded pots can lead to uneven cooking.
• For optimal flavor and texture, sautéing onions and garlic before adding chicken and vegetables enhances the overall taste of the dish significantly.
• If you prefer a richer sauce, you may use half and half or heavy cream in place of water. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking your ingredients.

Nutritional Information

This one-pot dinner is not only delicious but also nutritious. The protein from chicken helps maintain muscle mass, while vegetables provide essential vitamins and antioxidants that support overall health. Depending on individual dietary preferences and calorie needs, this meal can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Health Benefits

The use of olive oil in cooking adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats which help to lower bad cholesterol levels while raising good cholesterol. Chicken itself is lean protein that helps in weight management and muscle building if consumed moderately with other nutritious foods.

Variations & Alternatives

• Vegetarian Option: You can make a fully vegetarian version by omitting the chicken altogether. Vegetables like cauliflower, mushrooms, and potatoes would complement this dish beautifully.
• Spicy Version: If you love spice, add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes during cooking to give it a kick.
• Creamy Sauce: For those who enjoy creamier dishes, use half and half instead of water when preparing the sauce. This will thicken the sauce for a richer consistency.

This versatile one-pot dinner recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this healthy, satisfying meal that requires minimal effort yet delivers big flavor! Whether you're looking for something quick during a busy week or want to impress guests with a simple yet delicious dish, this chicken and vegetable concoction checks all the boxes.