One-Pan Garlic Herb Chicken
Highlighted under: Easy Everyday Meals
When I first tried making One-Pan Garlic Herb Chicken, I didn't realize just how flavorful and easy a dish could be. I fell in love with the simplicity of seasoning chicken with aromatic herbs and garlic, all while letting the oven do the work. The juicy chicken paired effortlessly with roasted vegetables creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. In just one pan, I can achieve a delightful meal that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen.
Preparing One-Pan Garlic Herb Chicken was a revelation for me. I could never have imagined how such a simple technique could yield such delicious results. I used fresh herbs for maximum flavor, ensuring that every bite burst with freshness. The chicken turns golden brown and crisp on the outside, while remaining juicy inside, which I attribute to letting it rest during cooking.
One tip I’ve learned is to let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes—even if you’re short on time. It deepens the flavors and elevates the overall experience. With minimal cleanup, this dish has become a weeknight favorite in our home.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- The irresistible aroma of roasted garlic and herbs wafting through your kitchen.
- A complete meal made in one pan, saving you time on cleanup.
- Juicy chicken breast complemented by perfectly cooked vegetables for a nutritious meal.
The Importance of Marinating
Marinating chicken not only infuses it with flavors but also helps to tenderize the meat. The combination of olive oil, garlic, oregano, and basil creates an aromatic scenario that permeates the chicken during the 30 minutes of marinating. You can extend this time to several hours or overnight for a deeper flavor profile. Just remember to cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate if marinating for longer than an hour.
For an added twist, consider experimenting with fresh herbs if available. Fresh rosemary or thyme can elevate the flavor even further, and their textures will stand up beautifully to the roasting process. Simply swap in about three times the amount of fresh herbs for the dried ones. Whichever herbs you use, ensure they are well mixed into the marinade for an even coating.
Vegetable Preparation Techniques
When prepping the vegetables, cut the broccoli into uniform florets to ensure even roasting. About one to two inches in size is ideal, allowing them to cook through while retaining a slight crunch. For the cherry tomatoes, halving them helps to intensify their sweetness as they caramelize in the oven. The baby carrots can be left whole, but feel free to cut them in half lengthwise if they are particularly thick.
Tossing the vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper not only enhances flavor but also aids in achieving a beautifully roasted exterior. Ensure they are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet; this allows for better airflow around each piece, preventing steaming and ensuring a caramelized finish. A crowded pan can lead to softened vegetables instead of the desired golden edges.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, I recommend using a skillet over medium heat to help retain the chicken's moisture while warming through the veggies. If you prefer the oven, reheat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes. This avoids any rubbery texture that can occur from microwaving.
This dish works wonderfully as a meal prep option, allowing you to create healthy lunches for the week. Serve the chicken and vegetables over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for added fiber and nutrients. Alternatively, feel free to pair with a fresh salad or whole grain bread for a more varied plate.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Vegetables:
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup baby carrots
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat thoroughly. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Vegetables
On a large baking sheet, toss broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and baby carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Combine and Bake
Arrange the marinated chicken breasts on the baking sheet with the vegetables. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Serve
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your flavorful one-pan dinner!
Pro Tips
- For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken just before serving.
Customizing with Seasoning
Personalizing the seasoning blend of this recipe is one of its many advantages. If you enjoy a zestier bite, consider adding some lemon zest or a splash of balsamic vinegar to the marinade for brightness. For those who appreciate heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a gentle kick without overwhelming the dish's core flavors.
You can also consider incorporating other spices such as paprika or cumin into your vegetable mix for additional depth. Adjusting the seasoning not only allows for creativity but can help cater to different taste preferences, making this a versatile staple.
Scaling for Larger Groups
If you're planning to serve a larger crowd, this recipe can easily be scaled up. For every two additional chicken breasts, simply double the marinade and ensure you have enough vegetables to fill the baking sheet. Cooking times may vary slightly, so always check that the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) internally and adjustments may be needed based on your oven's capacity.
Consider using multiple baking sheets for even cooking if you're cooking a large batch. Place one sheet on the top rack and another on the bottom, rotating them halfway through to achieve an even roast. Just keep a close eye on them to ensure nothing overcooks.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure it's cooked through.
→ What can I substitute for the vegetables?
Feel free to use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers or zucchini.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and chop the vegetables a day in advance.
One-Pan Garlic Herb Chicken
When I first tried making One-Pan Garlic Herb Chicken, I didn't realize just how flavorful and easy a dish could be. I fell in love with the simplicity of seasoning chicken with aromatic herbs and garlic, all while letting the oven do the work. The juicy chicken paired effortlessly with roasted vegetables creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. In just one pan, I can achieve a delightful meal that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen.
What You'll Need
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Vegetables:
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup baby carrots
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How-To Steps
In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat thoroughly. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
On a large baking sheet, toss broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and baby carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Arrange the marinated chicken breasts on the baking sheet with the vegetables. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your flavorful one-pan dinner!
Extra Tips
- For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken just before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 590mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 16g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 40g