Indulge in the savory delight of Baked Chicken Breasts and Vegetables, perfectly paired with Jeanine Cummins' gripping novel "American Dirt" and a refreshing Classic White Sangria. This combination offers a feast not just for the palate but for the mind and spirit as well. The flavorful medley of tender chicken and roasted vegetables complements the novel's rich storytelling, while the light and fruity sangria enhances the dining experience with a touch of sophistication. Immerse yourself in this journey of taste and imagination, as you explore profound themes and captivating narratives with friends.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the sliced red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and broccoli florets. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and season with garlic powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the vegetables evenly.
- Season the chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and season both sides with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika.
- Arrange the vegetables: Spread the seasoned vegetables around the chicken breasts on the baking sheet. Top each chicken breast with a slice of lemon.
- Bake: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken breasts are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), and the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Serve: Remove the sheet pan from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish the chicken and vegetables with chopped fresh parsley or basil.
American Dirt
"American Dirt" by Jeanine Cummins follows the harrowing journey of Lydia and her son Luca as they flee Mexico for the United States after a drug cartel targets them. This raw and compelling narrative explores themes of family, survival, and the immigrant experience, offering a heart-rending look at the lengths one would go to for safety and a better life.
Jeanine Cummins's American Dirt, the #1 New York Times bestseller and Oprah Book Club pick that has sold over three million copies Lydia lives in Acapulco. She has a son, Luca, the love of her life, and a wonderful husband who is a journalist. And while cracks are beginning to show in Acapulco because of the cartels, Lydia’s life is, by and large, fairly comfortable. But after her husband’s tell-all profile of the newest drug lord is published, none of their lives will ever be the same. Forced to flee, Lydia and Luca find themselves joining the countless people trying to reach the United States. Lydia soon sees that everyone is running from something. But what exactly are they running to?
Discussion Questions
- How does the author create empathy for Lydia and her son despite the numerous challenges they face?
- Discuss the role of family in "American Dirt" and how it influences the characters' actions.
- What are the major themes of the novel, and how are they developed through the storyline and characters?
- How does the book portray the complexities of immigration, and what message does it convey about borders and identity?
- Analyze the character of Lydia. How does she change throughout the novel, and what are the driving forces behind her actions?
- How does the author use setting and atmosphere to enhance the tension and mood in the story?
- Discuss the significance of the title "American Dirt" and how it reflects the central themes of the book.
- In what ways does the book challenge or reinforce stereotypes about immigrants and the countries from which they come?
- How does the relationship between Lydia and Luca evolve, and what impact does this have on the narrative?
- What did you learn from "American Dirt" about compassion, resilience, and the human spirit? How did it affect your perspective on the immigrant experience?
Authors:
Jeanine Cummins
ISBN: 1250209765
Publisher: Flatiron Books
Published Date: 2020-01-21
Classic White Sangria
This refreshing Classic White Sangria is the perfect beverage companion to a savory Baked Chicken Breasts and Vegetables dish. With its crisp white wine base and bright citrus notes, accented by fresh fruits, it's a light and invigorating drink that enhances the flavors of your meal, creating a complete sensory experience.
Ingredients
- 1 bottle of dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
- 1/2 cup brandy
- 1/4 cup orange liqueur (such as Triple Sec)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 lime, sliced
- 1/2 cup sliced strawberries
- 1 peach, pitted and sliced
- 1 cup club soda
- Ice
Instructions
- In a large pitcher, combine the white wine, brandy, orange liqueur, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
- Add the sliced orange, lemon, lime, strawberries, and peach to the pitcher.
- Refrigerate the sangria for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, add the club soda and ice to the pitcher, and stir gently to combine.
- Serve in glasses garnished with a slice of citrus or a few pieces of fruit from the pitcher.