Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by seasoning your chicken breasts. Pat them dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and paprika. If you have time, you can let the chicken marinate for an hour to really bring out the flavors. However, if you’re short on time, seasoning it right before cooking works just fine.
Step 2: Prep the Vegetables
While the chicken is being seasoned, chop the vegetables. Slice the carrots, chop the zucchini, bell pepper, and onion. Cut the baby potatoes in half. The more uniform your vegetable pieces, the more evenly they will cook.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Let them cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Now, add the carrots, potatoes, bell pepper, and zucchini. Stir everything together and cook for about 5 minutes, letting the vegetables start to brown slightly.
Step 5: Simmer the Chicken and Vegetables
Pour in the chicken broth, stirring everything together. Place the chicken back into the skillet on top of the vegetables. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow the dish to simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is fully cooked. If you prefer your vegetables to retain a bit of crispness, uncover the skillet for the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Step 6: Finish with Butter (Optional)
Once everything is cooked, stir in a tablespoon of butter for an extra layer of richness. Adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if necessary. The butter will give the dish a silky finish, making every bite even more enjoyable.