Simple Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies

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About This Recipe

This recipe is the perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create a flavorful and wholesome meal. Simple Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies is a one-pan dinner that combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with roasted vegetables, all coated in a rich garlic butter sauce. The dish is straightforward to prepare, requires minimal cleanup, and works beautifully as a weeknight staple or even as a casual weekend dinner.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. It uses ingredients that are easy to find and affordable, and the cooking method is adaptable to whatever you have on hand. With garlic butter as the star, you get a flavorful meal without needing a long ingredient list or advanced cooking skills.

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced in half horizontally
  • 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 large bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow onion, sliced
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Step by Step Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step ensures that the chicken will brown properly when seared. Season both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the halved baby potatoes, broccoli florets, sliced bell pepper, and onion. Drizzle with olive oil, season lightly with salt and pepper, and toss to coat.
  4. Arrange the seasoned vegetables in a single layer on a large, rimmed baking sheet. This ensures even cooking and caramelization.
  5. In a small bowl, stir together the melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley to create the garlic butter sauce.
  6. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until golden brown. The chicken will still be raw in the center, but this step develops flavor.
  7. Place the seared chicken breasts on top of the arranged vegetables on the baking sheet.
  8. Brush the garlic butter sauce generously over each piece of chicken. Drizzle any remaining sauce lightly over the vegetables.
  9. Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and roast for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the vegetables are tender.
  10. Remove from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This rest period ensures the juices redistribute within the meat.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken

  • Always dry the chicken with paper towels before searing. Moisture prevents browning and causes the chicken to steam instead of sear.
  • Use an oven-safe meat thermometer to avoid guessing doneness. The chicken is safe to eat at 165°F (74°C).
  • For even cooking, cut all vegetables to a similar size, especially potatoes.
  • Do not overcrowd the baking sheet. Leave space between vegetables so they roast instead of steaming.
  • Fresh garlic works best for this recipe, but roasted garlic or garlic powder can be used for a milder flavor.

Best Vegetables to Use

  • Carrots add natural sweetness and pair well with garlic butter.
  • Asparagus cooks quickly and adds a touch of elegance.
  • Zucchini offers a light, tender bite but should be cut into thicker chunks to avoid overcooking.
  • Green beans roast beautifully and remain crisp-tender.
  • Brussels sprouts, halved, caramelize and complement the richness of the butter.

Mixing colors and textures makes the dish visually appealing and nutritionally diverse.

FAQ

Can I use different vegetables?
Yes, zucchini, asparagus, carrots, or green beans can all be used. Cut them evenly for proper roasting.

How do I know when the chicken is done?
The most reliable method is using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I skip searing the chicken?
Searing adds flavor and texture, but you can place the raw chicken directly on the vegetables and bake. Simply add 5 to 10 minutes to the roasting time.

Can I make this ahead of time?
You can chop vegetables and season the chicken earlier in the day. Store them separately in the refrigerator, then cook everything fresh at dinner time.

Simple Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies is a practical, delicious recipe that demonstrates how a handful of basic ingredients can create a complete, flavorful meal. The garlic butter sauce enhances both the chicken and vegetables, making them taste indulgent without requiring complicated cooking skills. This dish is ideal for busy nights, meal prepping, or even casual entertaining.

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