Savory Chicken Ratatouille Delight
This Savory Chicken Ratatouille Delight combines tender chicken breast with a colorful medley of vegetables, creating a hearty and nutritious stew that’s bursting with flavor. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this dish is not only easy to make but also a great way to enjoy seasonal vegetables. Serve it with crusty bread or over rice for a fulfilling meal that everyone will love.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
water
1/4 cup (none)
boneless skinless chicken breast
1 lb (cut into bite-sized pieces)
zucchini
3 (peeled and sliced)
eggplant
1 (cubed)
onion
1 (sliced)
green bell pepper
1 (chopped)
mushrooms
6-8 ounces (sliced)
diced tomatoes
16 ounces (drained)
garlic salt
2 teaspoons (none)
msg or salt
1 teaspoon (none)
basil
1 teaspoon (dried)
parsley
1 teaspoon (dried)
pepper
1/2 teaspoon (none)
Instructions
1
Begin by pouring 1/4 cup of water into a large wok or pot. Place the boneless skinless chicken breast in the wok and steam for approximately 2 minutes or until it starts to cook slightly.
2
Remove the chicken and slice it into bite-sized pieces.
3
Add the sliced chicken back to the wok and include the peeled and sliced zucchini, cubed eggplant, sliced onion, chopped green bell pepper, and the mushrooms. Stir well to combine.
4
Cook the mixture on medium heat for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender yet still firm.
5
Once the veggies are cooked, add in the drained diced tomatoes and mix everything together.
6
Sprinkle the garlic salt, MSG (or salt), basil, parsley, and pepper over the mixture. Stir thoroughly to incorporate the spices and herbs.
7
Allow the stew to cook for an additional 5 minutes for all the flavors to meld together. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Chicken Ratatouille Delight?
It is a hearty and nutritious stew that combines tender chicken breast with a colorful medley of vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and mushrooms.
Is this chicken ratatouille recipe healthy?
Yes, it is a healthy option featuring lean protein from chicken breast and a high volume of nutrient-dense vegetables.
How long does it take to cook this dish?
The total cooking time is approximately 25 to 30 minutes, making it a quick option for weeknight dinners.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be substituted for a juicier texture, though they may require a slightly longer cooking time.
Do I need to peel the zucchini for this recipe?
The recipe calls for peeled and sliced zucchini, but you can leave the skin on if you prefer extra color and fiber.
What can I substitute for eggplant if I do not like it?
You can substitute eggplant with extra zucchini, yellow squash, or even cubed potatoes.
Is this Savory Chicken Ratatouille Delight gluten-free?
Yes, all the primary ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free. Ensure your spices and MSG are certified gluten-free if necessary.
What are the best side dishes for this ratatouille?
It is delicious served with crusty bread, over white or brown rice, or even with a side of light pasta.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, though the vegetables will be much softer.
Why do you steam the chicken in water first?
Steaming the chicken briefly in water helps to cook it gently and makes it easier to slice into clean, bite-sized pieces.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned diced tomatoes?
Yes, you can use about 2 cups of fresh chopped tomatoes. You may want to add a splash of tomato juice or water if the dish seems too dry.
Is it necessary to use MSG?
No, MSG is optional. You can replace it with an equal amount of regular salt or a salt substitute of your choice.
How should I store leftover chicken ratatouille?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze this chicken ratatouille?
Yes, this stew freezes well. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months and thaw in the fridge before reheating.
What kind of mushrooms should I use?
Button mushrooms or cremini (baby bella) mushrooms work best for this recipe.
Can I add other vegetables to this stew?
Absolutely. Carrots, celery, or spinach would be excellent additions to increase the nutritional value.
Is this a one-pot meal?
Yes, the entire dish can be prepared in a single large wok or pot, making cleanup very easy.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
Based on the ingredient amounts, this recipe typically serves 4 to 6 people.
Can I use fresh basil and parsley instead of dried?
Yes, use about 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped herbs for every 1 teaspoon of dried herbs called for in the recipe.
What if I do not have a wok?
A large deep skillet or a Dutch oven will work perfectly as a substitute for a wok.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, the flavors often improve the next day, making it a great option for prepared lunches or dinners.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables, chickpeas, or tofu for protein.
Is this dish spicy?
As written, the dish is mild. If you prefer heat, you can add red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper.
What can I use instead of garlic salt?
You can use 2 cloves of minced fresh garlic and 1 teaspoon of regular salt as a replacement.
Should I salt the eggplant to remove bitterness?
For this stew-style preparation, it is not strictly necessary, but you can salt the cubes for 20 minutes and rinse them if you prefer.
Can I use a different color bell pepper?
Yes, red, yellow, or orange bell peppers will work just as well and add a sweeter flavor than green peppers.
What should I do if the stew is too watery?
You can simmer the stew uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the mild flavors and soft-cooked vegetables generally make it appealing to children.
Can I reheat this in the microwave?
Yes, reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1.5 to 2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Why do you drain the canned tomatoes?
Draining the tomatoes prevents the stew from becoming too thin or soup-like, keeping the focus on the vegetables and chicken.