If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious meal, Baked Chicken Breasts and Vegetables is your go-to recipe. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also brings a medley of flavors and nutrients to your table. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something nutritious without much fuss. The origins of this recipe can be traced back to traditional European roasts, where meats and vegetables were cooked together to enhance each other’s flavors. Let’s dive into this delightful one-pan meal!
Ingredients
For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Vegetables:
- 2 cups of baby carrots
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium red onion, cut into wedges
- Potatoes: 3 medium-sized potatoes, cut into cubes
- Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Herbs:
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious meal that your family will love:
Preparation
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Baking Tray: Line a large baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Cooking the Dish
- Season the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts in a large bowl.
- Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
- Rub the mixture into the chicken until evenly coated.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- In another bowl, combine the carrots, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, onion wedges, and potatoes.
- Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Toss until the vegetables are well-coated.
- Arrange on the Tray:
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts on one side of the prepared baking tray.
- Arrange the vegetables on the other side of the tray, ensuring they are spread out evenly for even cooking.
- Bake in the Oven:
- Place the tray in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C) and the vegetables are tender.
- Broil for Extra Crispiness (Optional):
- If you prefer a crispy finish, turn on the broiler for the last 3-5 minutes of baking.
- Keep an eye on the tray to prevent burning.
Serving
- Rest the Chicken:
- Remove the tray from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Tips and Variations
- Different Vegetables: Feel free to use other vegetables such as zucchini, asparagus, or green beans.
- Herb Substitutions: Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can be used in place of dried ones for a more aromatic flavor.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Cheese Lovers: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan over the vegetables before baking for a cheesy twist.
Cooking Tips
- Baking Covered vs. Uncovered: Baking chicken uncovered gives it a nice golden color, while covering it keeps it juicier.
- Raw Chicken with Vegetables: It’s perfectly safe to cook raw chicken with vegetables in the oven, as long as both reach the proper internal temperature.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 5g
- Vitamin A: 120% of Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 90% of DV
Conclusion
Baked Chicken Breasts and Vegetables is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that combines flavor, nutrition, and convenience. This one-pan dish minimizes cleanup and maximizes taste, making it an excellent choice for families and food lovers alike. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just enjoy a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
Don’t forget to explore other simple chicken and vegetable recipes on easycrispyrecipes.com and share your cooking adventures with us! We’d love to hear how your dish turned out and any creative variations you tried. Leave a comment below, share the recipe on social media, and subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes delivered straight to your inbox.