If you’re looking for a healthy yet delicious meal, try this recipe for baked chicken and vegetables with a basil twist. This dish is not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients and flavor. Let’s get started.

Ingredients

4 chicken breasts
4 medium-sized carrots
1 large red bell pepper
1 medium-sized zucchini
1 medium-sized yellow squash
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
1 teaspoon of dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat oven

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Prepare chicken breasts

Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts. Season both sides with garlic powder, dried basil, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Prepare vegetables

Wash and peel the carrots, and cut them into thin slices. Cut the red bell pepper into thin strips and remove the seeds. Cut the zucchini and yellow squash into thin slices.

Step 4: Mix vegetables with olive oil

Place all the vegetables in a large mixing bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Toss until the vegetables are coated evenly with olive oil.

Step 5: Arrange chicken and vegetables in a baking dish

Place the chicken breasts in the center of a large baking dish. Arrange the vegetables all around the chicken breasts.

Step 6: Bake in oven

Bake the chicken and vegetables in the preheated oven for 35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. You can test the chicken by inserting a thermometer into the thickest part of the breast.

The internal temperature should read 165°F (75°C).

Step 7: Serve

Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the baked chicken and vegetables hot with a side of steamed rice or potatoes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Health Benefits

This baked chicken and vegetables recipe is a great option for anyone who wants to eat a healthy and balanced diet. Here are some of the health benefits of this dish:.

Chicken breasts are a great source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles, as well as reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Carrots are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, which is important for eye health, and potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure.
Red bell peppers contain high levels of vitamin C, which acts as an antioxidant and boosts immune function.
Zucchini and yellow squash are low in calories and rich in fiber, which aids digestion and promotes satiety.
Olive oil is a good source of healthy fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Basil contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which may help protect against chronic diseases and improve overall health.

Conclusion

Baked chicken and vegetables with a basil twist is a delicious and healthy meal that you can enjoy any day of the week. This dish is easy to make and requires only a few basic ingredients.

Whether you’re following a specific diet or just want to eat better, this recipe is a great way to get all the nutrients you need without sacrificing flavor. Give it a try and let us know what you think!.