Hearty Vegetable Lasagna: A Healthy Twist on an Italian Classic

Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup cream
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Steps and instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  2. Add the chicken breasts to the pan and cook until golden and no longer pink in the center, about 7-8 minutes on each side. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions become translucent.
  4. Add the sliced bell peppers and mushrooms to the pan. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
  5. Pour the chicken broth into the pan and bring to a simmer.
  6. Stir in the cream, salt, black pepper, oregano, and paprika. Let the sauce simmer until it begins to thicken.
  7. Return the chicken breasts to the pan. Cover and let simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
  8. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and sauce. Stir until the cheese is melted and well incorporated.
  9. Garnish the dish with the chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Tools for making

  • Cutting board - Used for chopping and preparing ingredients.
  • Knife - Essential for cutting and slicing the chicken and vegetables.
  • Large pan - Used for cooking the chicken and sauce.
  • Spatula - For flipping and stirring the chicken and vegetables.
  • Measuring spoons - Needed to accurately measure the salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika.
  • Grater - Used to grate the Parmesan cheese.
  • Saucepan - Required to simmer the chicken broth and cream.
  • Wooden spoon - Used to stir and mix the ingredients in the saucepan.
  • Tongs - Useful for transferring the cooked chicken breasts.
  • Plates - To serve the finished dish.

Recipe variations

  • Replace chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
  • Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a meat-free version.
  • Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
  • Include different colored bell peppers (green, orange) to add variety and more vibrant colors to the dish.
  • Use coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free and lighter option.
  • Add a handful of spinach or kale for added greens and nutrients.
  • Sprinkle some grated cheddar or mozzarella cheese on top before serving for a cheesy twist.
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, or cayenne pepper to customize the flavor profile.
  • Serve the dish over cooked rice, quinoa, or pasta to make it a complete meal.
  • For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickening agent.

Recipe overview

Welcome to our Dish17 recipe - a delightful pan-seared chicken dish packed with robust flavors and colorful veggies. In this recipe, you will learn how to perfectly sear chicken breasts and create a creamy, savory sauce with a hint of spice. You'll also find that the mix of bell peppers and mushrooms not only adds a great taste, but also provides a beautiful presentation. Expect to spend about an hour to prepare and cook this dish. The process involves searing chicken, sautéing vegetables, and creating a flavorful cream-based sauce. The result is a mouthwatering meal that's sure to impress your family or guests. Pair this dish with some crusty bread or over pasta to complete the meal. Enjoy your cooking!

Common questions

  1. Can I use bone-in chicken breasts instead of boneless? Yes, you can use bone-in chicken breasts for this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly as bone-in chicken may take a bit longer to cook through.
  2. Can I use a different type of meat? Absolutely! While the recipe calls for chicken breasts, you can substitute them with boneless chicken thighs, turkey cutlets, or even pork chops. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
  3. Can I use different vegetables? Certainly! Feel free to customize the recipe by using your preferred vegetables. You can add or substitute with vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, or carrots. Adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you choose.
  4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can make the dish ahead of time. Prepare the recipe as instructed, then let it cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
  5. Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze any leftovers. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  6. What can I serve with this dish? Dish17 pairs well with a variety of sides. Some popular options include steamed rice, pasta, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Cutting board - Used for preparing and slicing ingredients.
  • Chef's knife - Essential for cutting and chopping ingredients.
  • Large pan - Used for cooking the chicken and sauce.
  • Spatula - Useful for flipping and stirring the chicken and vegetables.
  • Measuring cups - Needed for accurately measuring ingredients such as chicken broth and cream.
  • Grater - Used to grate the Parmesan cheese.
  • Serving platter - Ideal for presenting the finished dish.
  • Garnishing tool - Optional, but helpful for sprinkling the chopped fresh parsley evenly.

Origin stories

While the exact origins of this creamy chicken dish are unclear, it bears similarities to variations of skillet-cooked chicken found throughout various cuisines. The combination of cream, Parmesan cheese, and herbs is reminiscent of classic Italian fare, while the use of bell peppers and mushrooms can be seen in many French dishes. Such a culinary blend suggests that this dish, much like many modern recipes, is a delightful mix of influences from different cuisines. Perhaps what's most interesting is the versatility of the dish. With its basic ingredients and simple preparation method, it has been adopted and adapted by home cooks around the world, each adding their own regional touch, making it a truly global dish. The dish's story is a testament to how food evolves and travels, crossing borders and breaking boundaries, much like the stories we share around the dinner table.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.

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