Basil Vinaigrette Chicken
Juicy chicken breasts are coated in a flavorful basil vinaigrette, then sautéed with peppers and onions, finished with cauliflower and melted cheese for a vibrant, healthy meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Coat chicken with a mixture of flour, half of the basil vinaigrette salad dressing mix, and pepper.
- Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chicken and cook 4 to 5 minutes per side until cooked through. Remove to a plate.
- Thinly slice red and yellow peppers and coarsely chop the onion.
- Add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil to the pan and add peppers and onion, stirring occasionally.
- Cook approximately 3 minutes or until browned.
- Stir in the rest of the salad dressing mix, cauliflower, and 3/4 cup water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer approximately 3 more minutes.
- Add the cooked chicken back to the pan.
- Sprinkle with cheese, cover, and cook until the cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker sauce, consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a bit of water before simmering. If you want to reduce calories, substitute the oil with a low-calorie cooking spray. You can also use any other dried herbs such as oregano or thyme in place of the basil vinaigrette mix for a different flavor profile. Make sure to keep an eye on the chicken to avoid overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Basil Vinaigrette Chicken over a bed of cooked quinoa or rice, which will soak up the flavorful sauce. Pair it with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. This dish also pairs beautifully with the Diabetic - Cooked Pumpkin Dessert for a light and satisfying dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and vegetables in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking, and heat until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basil Vinaigrette Chicken contains roughly 1011 calories, with 3g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 109g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to fully thaw them before cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps the chicken to absorb the flavors better. It may take a bit longer to cook, so use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
What can I substitute for the basil vinaigrette salad dressing mix?
If you don't have basil vinaigrette mix, you can create a homemade version by mixing 1 tablespoon of dried basil, 1 tablespoon of vinegar, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and a pinch of salt. This will add a similar flavor profile. Alternatively, you can use any other salad dressing you prefer.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make this dish vegetarian, simply replace the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh. Ensure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture for better texture. Adjust the cooking time as needed, cooking until the tofu is golden brown and heated through. This dish is versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).