One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken & Veggies

Let me tell you, weeknights in our house can be a bit… hectic. Between school runs, after-school activities, and just general daily life chaos, the last thing I want to do is spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. That’s why I’m always on the lookout for recipes that are not only delicious and satisfying but also quick and easy to prepare, and ideally, minimize the dreaded cleanup. Enter the One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken & Veggies. This recipe has been an absolute game-changer in our dinner routine. From the moment the aroma of garlic and butter starts wafting through the kitchen, everyone’s mood instantly lifts. The chicken comes out juicy and flavorful, perfectly complemented by tender-crisp vegetables, all bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce. Honestly, even my pickiest eater devours this dish without complaint. It’s become a regular feature on our menu, and I’m so excited to share this simple yet incredibly flavorful recipe with you! Trust me, once you try this, you’ll understand why it’s become our family’s go-to for a fuss-free, delicious, and healthy weeknight meal.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken & Veggies

In today’s fast-paced world, convenience is king, especially when it comes to meal preparation. This One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken & Veggies recipe isn’t just about ease; it’s about reclaiming your precious time without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. Let’s dive into why this recipe is destined to become a staple in your kitchen:

Effortless Weeknight Wonder

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Imagine this: minimal chopping, everything cooks together on a single pan, and dinner is on the table in under an hour. No complicated techniques, no mountains of dishes – just straightforward, delicious cooking. This recipe is designed for busy individuals and families who crave a home-cooked meal without the fuss. It’s perfect for those evenings when you’re short on time but still want to enjoy a wholesome and satisfying dinner. The streamlined process allows you to focus on what matters most – enjoying quality time with your loved ones around the dinner table, not being stuck in the kitchen cleaning up.

Minimal Cleanup Magic

Let’s face it, dishwashing is nobody’s favorite chore. This recipe is a dream come true for anyone who dreads post-dinner cleanup. Everything, from the chicken and vegetables to the flavorful sauce, cooks on a single sheet pan. This means fewer pots and pans to wash, leaving you with more time to relax and unwind after a long day. Simply line your sheet pan with parchment paper for even easier cleanup – just toss the parchment paper and give the pan a quick rinse! This minimal cleanup aspect is a major win, especially on busy weeknights when time and energy are limited.

Flavor Explosion in Every Bite

Don’t let the simplicity fool you; this recipe is bursting with flavor. The combination of garlic, butter, and herbs creates a rich and aromatic sauce that perfectly complements the juicy chicken and tender vegetables. The garlic butter infuses every ingredient with its savory goodness, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The chicken becomes incredibly moist and flavorful, while the vegetables are perfectly roasted to tender-crisp perfection, absorbing all the delicious garlic butter sauce. This is not just a simple meal; it’s a flavor-packed experience that will leave you craving more.

Healthy and Nutritious Delight

Beyond its deliciousness and convenience, this One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken & Veggies recipe is also a healthy and nutritious meal option. It’s packed with lean protein from the chicken, essential vitamins and fiber from the vegetables, and healthy fats from the olive oil and butter (in moderation!). You can easily customize the vegetables to include your favorites, ensuring you and your family are getting a diverse range of nutrients. Roasting vegetables enhances their natural sweetness and preserves their nutritional value. This recipe is a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet in a delicious and appealing way, making it a guilt-free and wholesome meal choice for the whole family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken & Veggies recipe is its reliance on simple, readily available ingredients. You likely already have many of these staples in your pantry and refrigerator. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece:

For the Chicken and Vegetables:

• 1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs (or Breasts): Chicken thighs are my personal preference for this recipe because they remain incredibly juicy and flavorful even when roasted at higher temperatures. They are also more forgiving if slightly overcooked. However, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can also be used if you prefer a leaner option. If using chicken breasts, be mindful of the cooking time as they tend to dry out faster than thighs. Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces for even cooking and to ensure they cook through at the same rate as the vegetables.
• 1 lb Broccoli Florets: Broccoli adds a wonderful earthy flavor and vibrant green color to the dish. Choose fresh broccoli florets that are firm and tightly closed. Cut them into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are roughly the same size for even roasting. You can also use frozen broccoli florets, just be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before using to prevent excess moisture on the sheet pan.
• 1 lb Baby Carrots: Baby carrots are convenient, sweet, and add a lovely orange hue to the dish. They roast beautifully and become tender and slightly caramelized in the oven. You can also use regular carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces. If you prefer a different root vegetable, consider using parsnips, sweet potatoes, or even cubed butternut squash.
• 1 Red Onion: Red onion provides a slightly sweet and pungent flavor that complements the garlic butter sauce and the other vegetables. Slice the red onion into wedges, ensuring they are not too thin, so they don’t burn during roasting. You can substitute with yellow or white onion if preferred, but red onion adds a distinct flavor profile.
• 2 Bell Peppers (any color): Bell peppers add sweetness, color, and a slight crunch to the dish. You can use any color bell pepper – red, yellow, orange, or green – or a combination for visual appeal. Remove the seeds and membranes and chop the bell peppers into 1-inch pieces, similar in size to the other vegetables.
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: Olive oil is essential for roasting the vegetables and chicken. It helps to prevent sticking, promotes browning, and adds a subtle fruity flavor. Use a good quality olive oil for the best flavor. You can also use avocado oil or another neutral cooking oil if preferred.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the flavor of all the ingredients. Use kosher salt or sea salt and freshly ground black pepper for the best taste. Season generously to ensure all components are well-flavored.

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter: Butter is the star of this sauce, providing richness, flavor, and a beautiful sheen. Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the sauce. You can use salted butter, but be sure to adjust the amount of added salt accordingly.
• 4 cloves Garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is crucial for the signature garlic butter flavor. Mince the garlic finely to release its aroma and flavor. You can also use a garlic press for convenience. If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove or two for a more intense garlic flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice: Lemon juice adds brightness and acidity to the sauce, balancing the richness of the butter and garlic. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always best, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
• 1 teaspoon Dried Italian Herbs: Italian herbs blend adds a touch of herbaceousness and complexity to the sauce. You can use a pre-mixed Italian herb blend or create your own using dried oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme. Fresh herbs can also be used – about 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley, oregano, or thyme would be a great addition, added towards the end of cooking.
• 1/2 teaspoon Paprika (optional, for color and mild flavor): Paprika adds a subtle smoky sweetness and a beautiful reddish hue to the sauce. Smoked paprika can be used for a more pronounced smoky flavor, or sweet paprika for a milder sweetness. This is optional but recommended for enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Pinch of Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for a touch of heat): Red pepper flakes add a subtle kick of heat to the sauce. If you enjoy a bit of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes will elevate the flavor without making it overly spicy. Omit if you prefer a completely mild flavor.
• Fresh Parsley, chopped (for garnish): Fresh parsley adds a pop of freshness, color, and a final herbaceous note to the finished dish. Chop fresh parsley and sprinkle it over the chicken and vegetables just before serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Cooking Your One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken & Veggies

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the simple steps to create this delicious One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken & Veggies:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Sheet Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This prevents sticking and makes washing up a breeze.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and chop all your vegetables. Cut the broccoli into florets, baby carrots in half lengthwise (if large), red onion into wedges, and bell peppers into 1-inch pieces. Ensure all vegetables are roughly the same size for even cooking.
3. Toss Vegetables with Olive Oil and Seasoning: In a large bowl, toss the prepared vegetables with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Make sure the vegetables are evenly coated with oil and seasoning. This helps them roast properly and develop flavor.
4. Arrange Vegetables on Sheet Pan: Spread the seasoned vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can steam the vegetables instead of roasting them. If necessary, use two baking sheets to ensure even roasting.
5. Add Chicken to the Pan: Nestle the chicken pieces among the vegetables on the sheet pan. Distribute them evenly so they cook through at the same rate as the vegetables.
6. Prepare Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic, lemon juice, Italian herbs, paprika (if using), and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine all the ingredients and let the garlic infuse the butter for a minute or two. If microwaving, heat in short intervals, stirring in between, to avoid splattering.
7. Pour Garlic Butter Sauce Over Chicken and Vegetables: Drizzle the garlic butter sauce evenly over the chicken and vegetables on the sheet pan. Ensure everything is coated with the delicious sauce.
8. Roast in the Oven: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C) and the vegetables are tender-crisp. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of the chicken pieces and vegetables.
9. Check for Doneness: To check if the chicken is cooked through, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of a chicken piece. It should read 165°F (74°C). The vegetables should be tender-crisp, easily pierced with a fork, and slightly browned.
10. Broil for Extra Browning (Optional): For extra browning and caramelization, you can broil the chicken and vegetables for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
11. Garnish and Serve: Remove the sheet pan from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken & Veggies!

Nutrition Facts: Fueling Your Body the Delicious Way

This One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken & Veggies recipe is not only delicious but also a relatively healthy and balanced meal option. Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Servings: Approximately 4-6 servings
• Calories per Serving (estimated): 450-550 calories (This can vary depending on portion size and specific ingredients used)

Approximate Macronutrient Breakdown per Serving:

• Protein: 40-50 grams (from chicken)
• Fat: 25-35 grams (from olive oil and butter)

Please Note: These are approximate values and can vary based on specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and cooking methods. For precise nutritional information, you can use online nutritional calculators and input the exact ingredients and quantities you use.

This recipe provides a good source of lean protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and fiber, making it a nourishing and satisfying meal. It’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet and enjoy a delicious and balanced dinner.

Preparation Time: Quick and Convenient Cooking

One of the biggest advantages of this recipe is its speed and convenience. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated preparation and cooking times:

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes (This includes washing, chopping vegetables, and preparing the garlic butter sauce)
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes (Roasting time in the oven)
• Total Time: Approximately 40-50 minutes

From start to finish, you can have a delicious and healthy One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken & Veggies meal on the table in under an hour. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when time is of the essence. The minimal prep work and hands-off cooking in the oven allow you to multitask or simply relax while dinner cooks itself.

How to Serve Your One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken & Veggies

This versatile One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken & Veggies recipe is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with various accompaniments to create a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Over Rice or Quinoa: Serve the chicken and vegetables over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa. The grains will soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce, making each bite even more flavorful.
• With Crusty Bread: Serve alongside a side of crusty bread, such as baguette or sourdough, for soaking up the flavorful garlic butter sauce. Garlic bread would be an extra indulgent option!
• Alongside a Fresh Salad: Balance the richness of the chicken and vegetables with a light and refreshing side salad. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing or a Caesar salad would be excellent choices.
• With Roasted Potatoes or Sweet Potatoes: If you want to add more carbohydrates, roast some potatoes or sweet potatoes alongside the chicken and vegetables on a separate sheet pan or in the oven beforehand.
• As Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter and low-carb option, serve the chicken and vegetables in lettuce wraps. Use large lettuce leaves, such as butter lettuce or romaine lettuce, to create healthy and flavorful wraps.
• Topped with Parmesan Cheese: For an extra cheesy and savory touch, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and vegetables just before serving.

Additional Tips for One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken & Veggies Perfection

To ensure your One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken & Veggies turns out perfectly every time, here are some additional tips and tricks:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Make sure to spread the chicken and vegetables in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting, resulting in soggy vegetables and unevenly cooked chicken. If necessary, use two baking sheets to ensure everything roasts properly.
• Cut Vegetables Evenly: Cut all vegetables into roughly the same size pieces. This ensures that they cook at the same rate and are tender-crisp at the same time as the chicken.
• Pat Chicken Dry: Before seasoning and roasting, pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better in the oven.
• Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences and what you have on hand. Other great vegetable options include zucchini, asparagus, green beans, Brussels sprouts, and mushrooms. Adjust roasting times accordingly depending on the density of the vegetables you choose.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste and adjust the seasoning of the garlic butter sauce and the vegetables to your liking. You can add more salt, pepper, garlic, herbs, or red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken & Veggies

Here are some frequently asked questions about making One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken & Veggies:

Q1: Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use frozen vegetables, but it’s best to thaw and drain them thoroughly before roasting. Frozen vegetables tend to release more moisture, which can lead to steaming instead of roasting. Thawing and draining excess moisture will help them roast better and prevent the dish from becoming watery.

Q2: Can I substitute chicken breasts for chicken thighs?

A: Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for chicken thighs. However, chicken breasts tend to dry out faster than thighs, so you may need to reduce the cooking time slightly or monitor them closely to prevent overcooking. Consider cutting chicken breasts into slightly larger pieces to help them retain moisture.

Q3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: While this recipe is best served fresh, you can prepare the vegetables and garlic butter sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, toss everything together and roast as directed. Cooked leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Q4: Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables to your liking. Good additions include zucchini, asparagus, green beans, mushrooms, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes. Just be mindful not to overcrowd the pan and adjust the roasting time as needed depending on the type and quantity of vegetables you add.

Q5: Can I make this recipe dairy-free or gluten-free?

A: Dairy-Free: To make this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure your Italian herb blend is gluten-free (some blends may contain fillers). All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

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