If you’re looking for an easy, yet satisfying dinner that’s both hearty and nutritious, this one-pot chicken recipe is exactly what you need. Tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and melted mozzarella come together in a rich tomato sauce, creating a delicious meal for the whole family. The best part? It’s a breeze to make and clean up afterward! Ready to create a dinner that everyone will enjoy? Let’s dive in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to get started. With these simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious, balanced meal in no time.
For the Chicken:
- 1 kg chicken breast (boneless, skinless)
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 4 tbsp flour (for coating the chicken)
For the Vegetables and Sauce:
- 6 medium potatoes
- 1 onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 red bell peppers (Kapia peppers)
- 100g cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup tomato puree
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 tsp thyme
- 1/2 tsp basil
- 1/2 tsp rosemary
- 3/4 tsp salt
For the Topping:
- 200g mozzarella cheese (grated or sliced)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Simple Step-by-Step Instructions
This recipe is as easy as it gets! Follow these clear steps to prepare a delicious one-pot chicken dinner that’s packed with flavor.
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by washing and patting dry the chicken breasts with a paper towel. This step ensures that the chicken gets a nice golden-brown sear.
Next, season both sides of the chicken with salt and black pepper. Lightly coat the chicken in flour—this will help create a delicious, crispy crust when frying.
2. Fry the Chicken
Heat a little oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and fry them until they’re golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Prepare the Vegetables
While the chicken is frying, get the vegetables ready:
- Peel and cut the potatoes into halves or quarters, depending on their size.
- Slice the onion thinly and mince the garlic.
- Remove the seeds from the red bell peppers (Kapia) and slice them into strips.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes to add a burst of sweetness to the dish.
4. Cook the Vegetables
In the same skillet you used for the chicken, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant—this should take about 3 minutes.
Next, add the red bell peppers and cook for another 2 minutes. Then, toss in the potatoes and cherry tomatoes and let everything cook together for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
5. Prepare the Sauce
Now it’s time to make the sauce. Pour in the tomato puree and water. Stir to combine all the ingredients. Then, add the thyme, basil, rosemary, and salt. Stir everything well to ensure that the herbs and seasoning are evenly distributed.
6. Combine the Chicken and Vegetables
Return the fried chicken breasts to the skillet with the vegetables and sauce. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let everything cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the potatoes are tender.
7. Add the Mozzarella
Once the chicken and vegetables are cooked, it’s time for the mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle it evenly over the chicken and vegetables. Cover the skillet again and let the cheese melt, which should take about 5 minutes.
8. Serve and Enjoy
Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, transfer the dish to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Now, serve and enjoy your delicious, nutritious one-pot dinner!
Cooking Tips to Enhance Your Dish
Here are a few helpful tips to make this dish even better:
Use Fresh Herbs
If possible, opt for fresh thyme, basil, and rosemary. Fresh herbs provide a richer, more vibrant flavor compared to dried ones.
Cheese Variations
While mozzarella is the classic choice for this recipe, you can experiment with other cheeses to suit your taste. Cheddar, Gouda, or even Parmesan would add different flavor profiles to the dish.
Veggie Substitutions
Feel free to swap out some of the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Zucchini or eggplant can be a great addition, or you could even use carrots for added sweetness.
Control the Heat
Be mindful of the heat while cooking the chicken. Medium heat is ideal to avoid burning the outside while ensuring the inside stays juicy and tender.
Nutritional Benefits of This Dish
This chicken dish isn’t just tasty—it’s packed with nutrients. Here’s why it’s a great choice for a healthy dinner:
High in Protein
Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health.
Rich in Vitamins
The combination of bell peppers, tomatoes, and potatoes provides a wealth of vitamins, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium, which support immune function, eye health, and heart health.
Healthy Fats
The mozzarella cheese adds a dose of healthy fats, as well as calcium, which is great for bone health.
Low Carb Option
If you’re looking to reduce carbs, you can adjust the amount of potatoes in the recipe to make it more keto-friendly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This one-pot chicken dinner is simple, quick, and packed with flavor. It’s a family-friendly meal that can easily become a staple in your weekly dinner rotation. Here’s why it’s so great:
Easy to Make
With just a few straightforward steps, this dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
One-Pot Wonder
Since everything is cooked in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze—leaving you with more time to relax.
Balanced Nutrition
This recipe offers a complete meal that includes lean protein, healthy fats, and plenty of vegetables, making it a balanced choice for the whole family.
Dietary Adjustments
This recipe is versatile and can be easily adjusted to fit different dietary needs.
Gluten-Free Option
For a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free flour to coat the chicken.
Dairy-Free Substitute
If you’re avoiding dairy, swap the mozzarella cheese for a dairy-free cheese alternative or leave it out entirely.
Low-Sodium Adjustments
If you need to reduce sodium, cut back on the salt and rely on the herbs to bring out the flavors.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of tender chicken, tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella creates a rich and comforting dish. The aromatic herbs like thyme, rosemary, and basil bring layers of flavor, while the sweetness of the bell peppers and cherry tomatoes balances the savory elements. This simple method of cooking ensures that all the ingredients retain their fresh, natural flavors.
Conclusion: Your New Favorite Chicken Dinner
This simple, quick chicken dinner is perfect for any night of the week. With flavorful chicken, creamy mozzarella, and a medley of vegetables, it’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s easy to adjust to suit your tastes, so you can make it your own.
Give it a try and watch it become a favorite in your home!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are a great choice for a juicier and more flavorful option.
What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese?
Try cheddar, Gouda, or even Parmesan cheese for a unique twist.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
You don’t have to peel the potatoes; the skin is rich in fiber and nutrients.
Can this be made vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the chicken for tofu or chickpeas to make this dish vegetarian.
Can I use tomato sauce instead of tomato puree?
Yes, you can. Just be sure to adjust the seasonings to balance the flavors.
How long does this dish last?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated easily when you’re ready to eat.
Can I add more veggies like spinach or broccoli?
Yes, add spinach or broccoli during the last 10 minutes of cooking to prevent them from overcooking.
