Are you craving a mouthwatering meal that combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a zesty Italian twist? Look no further! This quick and easy recipe will transform your weeknight dinner from ordinary to extraordinary in just 45 minutes. Imagine succulent chicken pieces perfectly seared and tossed with crisp, colorful vegetables, all brought to life by a tantalizing Italian dressing that will make your taste buds dance with joy!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts
- 2 cups mixed vegetables
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by cutting chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes, approximately 1-inch pieces. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
- Wash and chop mixed vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. Recommended vegetables include bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and broccoli.
- Heat a large skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Add chicken cubes to the heated pan, cooking for 5-6 minutes while stirring occasionally. Ensure chicken is golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove cooked chicken from pan and set aside on a clean plate. Keep warm.
- In the same pan, add mixed vegetables and sauté for 4-5 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
- Return chicken to the pan with vegetables, then pour Italian dressing over the mixture.
- Stir and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is well-coated and heated through.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
- Serve hot, potentially over rice or pasta, and enjoy your Italian-style chicken and vegetable dish.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy results.
- Vegetable Prep Matters: Cut vegetables into uniform sizes to guarantee even cooking and a professional-looking dish.
- Pan Heat Management: Use medium-high heat to achieve a beautiful golden-brown sear on chicken without burning.
- Dressing Hack: For extra flavor, use a high-quality Italian dressing or make your own from scratch.
- Don't Overcook Vegetables: Keep them crisp-tender by sautéing briefly to retain nutrients and texture.
- Resting Time: Let the dish rest for a couple of minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve over rice, pasta, or with a side salad to make it a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
