Winter Harvest High Protein (Printable)
Hearty one-pan winter dish with protein, root vegetables, and aromatic spices for cozy meals.
# List of ingredients:
→ Protein
01 - 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
02 - 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
→ Vegetables
03 - 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
04 - 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
05 - 1 small red onion, diced
06 - 5 cups chopped kale, stems removed
07 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
08 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Pantry & Seasonings
09 - 2 tbsp olive oil
10 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
11 - 1 tsp ground cumin
12 - ½ tsp dried thyme
13 - ½ tsp dried rosemary
14 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
15 - ½ cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
→ Garnish
16 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
17 - 1 tbsp toasted pumpkin seeds
# Steps:
01 - Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper and cook for 5–6 minutes until browned and almost cooked through. Remove and set aside.
02 - Add remaining olive oil to the skillet. Incorporate sweet potato, carrot, and red onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
03 - Stir in red bell pepper and garlic. Cook for 2 minutes more to release their flavors.
04 - Return chicken to the skillet. Add chickpeas, smoked paprika, cumin, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and broth. Mix thoroughly to combine.
05 - Lower heat to medium, cover skillet, and simmer for 10–12 minutes until vegetables are tender and chicken is fully cooked.
06 - Uncover and stir in kale. Cook for 2–3 minutes until kale is wilted.
07 - Taste and add salt and pepper as necessary. Serve hot, garnished with parsley and pumpkin seeds if desired.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- This hearty one-pan meal feels like a cozy secret you're sharing with a dear friend, packed with nourishing winter veggies and lean protein.
- The spices and fresh ingredients create a balanced dish that satisfies without feeling heavy, making it a fast favorite on cold days.
02 -
- Don't rush the browning of the chicken's exterior — this step locks in juiciness and adds flavor complexity you won't want to miss.
- Adding kale last ensures it doesn't overcook and keeps a pleasant texture and vivid green color that brightens every bite.
03 -
- Use fresh spices whenever possible — they impart a stronger aroma and richer taste compared to old dried ones.
- Let the skillet rest a few minutes off the heat before serving to let flavors meld perfectly.