Description
One-Pan Roasted Chicken and Veggies
Ingredients
2 chicken breasts, diced
2 medium potatoes, diced
1 cup green beans, trimmed
1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons
2 carrots, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried rosemary
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine diced chicken, potatoes, green beans, zucchini, carrots, and minced garlic.
Season and toss: Drizzle olive oil over the mixture. Sprinkle with rosemary, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything until evenly coated.
Spread and bake: Spread the mixture evenly on a large baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway, until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.
Serve hot: Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy your hearty, flavorful one-pan meal!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 350 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfectly cooked, hassle-free meal. First, ensure all your vegetables are chopped to a uniform size (about 1-inch pieces) for even cooking. Pat the diced chicken breasts dry with a paper towel before adding to the bowl; this helps the oil and seasonings stick better. When tossing, don’t just stir—use your hands to massage the oil and herbs into every piece, ensuring maximum flavor. For baking, use a heavy-duty, rimmed baking sheet and spread the mixture in a single, uncrowded layer. Crowding causes steaming instead of roasting. Set a timer for 15 minutes to stir and flip the ingredients, which is crucial for achieving caramelization on all sides.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish pairs beautifully with several sides. For a complete meal, serve it over a bed of fluffy quinoa, couscous, or brown rice to soak up the delicious pan juices. A simple side salad with a lemony vinaigrette cuts through the richness. For a creamy contrast, add a dollop of tzatziki or hummus. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving to brighten the flavors.
How-to Summary
Chop vegetables and chicken uniformly. Toss everything with oil and seasonings in a large bowl. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway, until chicken is cooked through and veggies are tender.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Bone-in, skin-on thighs add more flavor and stay juicier. Adjust cooking time by 5-10 minutes, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
How do I prevent the vegetables from getting soggy?
The key is the single layer and high heat. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this traps steam. Ensuring your oven is fully preheated is also critical.
Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?
Yes, for meal prep. Chop and season the ingredients, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours, then roast when ready.
What are good vegetable substitutions?
Broccoli florets, bell peppers, red onion wedges, or sweet potatoes are excellent. Avoid very watery veggies like tomatoes.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer. Chicken is safe to eat at an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The juices should also run clear.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Uneven Chopping: Different-sized pieces cook at different rates, leading to some burnt and some raw ingredients.
- Overcrowding the Pan: This is the top cause of steamed, mushy vegetables instead of roasted, caramelized ones.
- Not Stirring Halfway: Skipping this step prevents even browning and cooking.
- Using a Cold Baking Sheet: Adding food to a cold pan can affect the initial cooking burst; preheat the pan in the oven if possible.
Conclusion
This One-Pan Roasted Chicken and Veggies recipe is the ultimate solution for a nutritious, flavorful, and easy cleanup dinner. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can achieve a perfectly roasted meal every time. Its flexibility with ingredients and straightforward method makes it a reliable staple for busy weeknights, promising a satisfying and healthy dish the whole family will love.