Description
One-Pan Garlic Herb Chicken
Ingredients:
4 chicken thighs
1 lb baby potatoes
½ lb green beans
3 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp thyme
1 tsp paprika
1 tbsp honey
Steps:
Heat oven to 375°F.
Mix potatoes with olive oil, garlic, thyme, paprika, and salt; spread on a baking dish.
Coat chicken with honey and the same spice mix. Add to the dish.
Add green beans after 15 minutes.
Bake for 35 minutes or until fully cooked.
Would you try adding honey for a hint of sweetness?
#SweetAndSavoryChicken
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfectly cooked, flavorful meal. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure a crispier skin. In a large bowl, toss the baby potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the minced garlic, thyme, paprika, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Spread this mixture in a single layer on a large, rimmed baking sheet. In the same bowl, coat the chicken thighs with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, honey, and an extra pinch of the same herbs and spices. Nestle the chicken among the potatoes, skin-side up. Bake for 15 minutes. Remove the pan from the oven, add the green beans to the pan, and toss them in the existing oils and juices. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F and the potatoes are tender.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty one-pan meal is satisfying on its own, but can be elevated with simple sides. For a fresh contrast, serve it with a crisp arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. To soak up the delicious pan juices, offer crusty bread or fluffy dinner rolls. If you want to stretch the meal for a larger family, serve it over a bed of creamy polenta, couscous, or quinoa.
How-to Summary
In summary, this recipe involves coating potatoes and chicken in a garlic-herb-honey mixture, roasting them on a single pan, and adding green beans partway through. The key steps are: seasoning well, using a hot oven, and arranging everything in a single layer for even cooking. The result is a complete, balanced dinner with minimal cleanup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, but boneless, skinless chicken breasts will cook faster and can dry out. Reduce their initial cooking time by 5-7 minutes and check for doneness early.
My vegetables aren’t crispy. What went wrong? Crowding the pan is the most common culprit. Ensure everything is in a single layer with space between pieces. Using a sheet pan instead of a deeper dish also promotes browning.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free or gluten-free? This recipe is naturally both! Just confirm your spices and honey are certified gluten-free if you have a severe allergy.
Can I prepare this meal ahead of time? Absolutely. You can chop the vegetables and mix the spice blend a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge, then assemble and bake when ready.
What are good herb substitutions? If you don’t have thyme, try rosemary, oregano, or an Italian herb blend. Fresh herbs can be used; double the amount for more vibrant flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Preheating the Oven: A properly hot oven is essential for searing the chicken and roasting the vegetables correctly from the start.
- Skipping the Drying Step: Failing to pat the chicken dry prevents the skin from getting beautifully golden and crisp.
- Overcrowding the Pan: This steams the food instead of roasting it. Use two pans if necessary.
- Adding the Green Beans Too Early: They will become mushy. Adding them halfway through ensures they stay tender-crisp.
- Forgetting to Season Generously: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper at every stage to build layers of flavor.
Conclusion
This One-Pan Garlic Herb Chicken is more than just a recipe; it’s a reliable strategy for a delicious, stress-free weeknight dinner. The combination of savory herbs, sweet honey, and roasted garlic creates a symphony of flavors with virtually no cleanup. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll master a versatile dish that can be adapted with your favorite vegetables and spices. Give it a try tonight and enjoy the simplicity and taste of a home-cooked meal done right.
