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Instructions: How to Make Grandma’s 10-Minute Chicken and Veggies
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by cutting the chicken breasts (or thighs) into bite-sized pieces. This ensures that the chicken cooks quickly and evenly. Season with a pinch of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano.
2. Heat the Pan:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. This is the foundation of your dish, so make sure the chicken gets nice and crispy on the outside.
3. Add the Vegetables:
Once the chicken is cooked, add the sliced onion, bell pepper, and zucchini to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant and crisp. If you prefer your veggies softer, you can cook them a bit longer.
4. Toss in the Tomatoes:
Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for just another minute, allowing them to soften slightly and release their juices. If you like a little extra flavor, drizzle in some balsamic vinegar at this point for a subtle sweetness that complements the savory chicken and veggies.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you’re using balsamic vinegar, give it a quick stir to coat everything in that tangy-sweet glaze.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Serve the dish straight from the skillet, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if you have it on hand. This dish is delicious on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a side of rice, quinoa, or even a slice of crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce.
Why Grandma’s 10-Minute Dinner Works So Well
This recipe works for a number of reasons:
- Quick and Easy: In just 10 minutes, you’ve got a complete, balanced meal. No complicated prep, no long cook times—just simple, wholesome ingredients that come together effortlessly.
- Healthy and Flavorful: Packed with lean chicken and fresh vegetables, this meal is nutritious without sacrificing taste. The combination of garlic, oregano, and balsamic vinegar brings out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- One-Pan Cooking: Less clean-up means more time to enjoy your meal! This dish is made in one skillet, making it a perfect option for busy nights or when you just don’t feel like washing a mountain of dishes.
- Versatile: Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you have in your fridge. You can use broccoli, spinach, or even carrots—whatever your family enjoys. The recipe is flexible and forgiving.
- Comforting and Satisfying: Sometimes, the simplest meals are the most satisfying. This dish brings together the comfort of chicken, the crunch of fresh veggies, and a touch of sweetness from the tomatoes and vinegar. It’s pure comfort in every bite.
Tips and Variations
- Add a Carb: If you want a heartier meal, serve this dish over pasta, rice, or quinoa. You could also toss the chicken and veggies with some cooked spaghetti or zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a low-carb option.
- Spice It Up: For a little extra kick, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or add a diced chili pepper when cooking the vegetables.
- Cheese Lovers: Top the dish with a sprinkle of Parmesan or feta cheese for added flavor and richness.
- Make It a Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prepping. Double the recipe, and you’ll have a healthy, delicious lunch or dinner ready for the next few days.
Final Thoughts: A Timeless, Effortless Recipe
My grandma’s 10-minute dinner has stood the test of time because it’s everything a meal should be: quick, easy, tasty, and comforting. It’s a dish that doesn’t require fancy ingredients or hours of preparation, but it delivers on flavor every single time. Whether you’re making it for your family or preparing it for friends, this recipe is bound to be a hit.
So, the next time you’re in a pinch or simply want something delicious without spending a lot of time in the kitchen, give this recipe a try. And who knows? You might just end up passing it down to future generations, just like my grandma did for me!
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