Fraser Valley Zest

Background and History

The Fraser Valley Zest is a flavorful dish inspired by the lush landscapes and rich agricultural heritage of the Fraser Valley, located in British Columbia, Canada. This vibrant dish captures the essence of the region's bountiful produce, combining fresh bell peppers, zucchini, and tomatoes with succulent chicken breast and a touch of lemon zest. The cultural blend of the area's influences, from indigenous to European settlements, reflects in the simplicity and heartiness of the dish, making it both nutrient-rich and delightful to the taste.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes
• 2 bell peppers, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish, chopped
• Fresh basil, chopped
• Dried oregano

Preparation

Step 1: Marinade the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken breast cubes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, juice from the lemon, a pinch of salt, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Add 1 clove of minced garlic and a teaspoon of dried oregano. Mix well, cover, and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the chicken is marinating, prepare your vegetables. Slice the bell peppers and zucchini, and dice the tomatoes. Set them aside.

Cooking Process

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken cubes to the skillet and cook until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced bell peppers, sliced zucchini, and the remaining minced cloves of garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet crisp.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Add the diced tomatoes and the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Mix well to combine all the ingredients, and allow them to heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Once our dish is ready, turn off the heat and sprinkle fresh parsley and basil on top. Serve immediately while it's hot for the best flavor.

Enjoying the Fraser Valley Zest

The Fraser Valley Zest is best enjoyed fresh off the skillet, served as a main dish. It pairs wonderfully with a side of fragrant jasmine rice or a light quinoa salad, bringing out the zestiness of the lemon and the savory quality of the chicken and vegetables. For a wine pairing, a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish's bright flavors perfectly. Don't forget to set your cooking timer to ensure each step is cooked to perfection.