Healthy Food Recipes: Cast Iron Pan Recipes Chicken

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Additional Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 cup baby spinach leaves
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

Steps to Cook:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season them evenly with paprika, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the hot skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Remove the skillet from the oven and transfer the cooked chicken breasts to a plate. Cover them loosely with foil to keep them warm.
7. In the same skillet, add the cherry tomatoes and mushrooms. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly softened.
8. Add the baby spinach leaves to the skillet and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted.
9. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the vegetable mixture.
10. Slice the chicken breasts and arrange them on top of the vegetable and feta mixture in the skillet.
11. Serve immediately, and enjoy!

Cook’s Note:

• For a creamier texture, you can add a tablespoon of heavy cream or plain Greek yogurt to the vegetable mixture before adding the feta cheese.
• Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more or less of any of the spices.
• This dish can be served with roasted potatoes, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete and balanced meal.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

This cast-iron pan recipe for healthy chicken is a delightful and nutritious meal that combines the juicy, flavorful chicken with a medley of fresh vegetables and tangy feta cheese. The use of a cast-iron skillet not only adds a beautiful sear to the chicken but also helps to retain the natural juices and flavors, making this dish a truly satisfying and wholesome option.

The key to this recipe is the careful seasoning of the chicken. The blend of paprika, garlic powder, and dried thyme creates a depth of flavor that complements the natural taste of the chicken. The searing process in the hot cast-iron skillet locks in the juices and provides a delightful crust on the outside of the chicken, while the oven-baking ensures the chicken is cooked through to perfection.

Once the chicken is done, the same cast-iron skillet is used to sauté the fresh vegetables. The cherry tomatoes and mushrooms add a delightful burst of flavor and texture, while the baby spinach leaves provide a nutrient-dense component to the dish. The crumbled feta cheese adds a creamy, tangy element that ties the entire dish together.

One of the great things about this recipe is its versatility. The seasoning can be adjusted to suit your personal taste preferences, and the dish can be served with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted potatoes, quinoa, or a fresh salad, to create a complete and balanced meal.

Additionally, the leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making this a great option for meal prep or easy weeknight dinners. The cast-iron skillet not only helps to create a delicious and healthy meal but also adds a touch of rustic elegance to the presentation.

In conclusion, this cast-iron pan recipe for healthy chicken is a must-try for anyone looking to incorporate more nutritious and flavorful dishes into their meal rotation. With its simple preparation, balanced flavors, and versatile serving options, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your household.