Chicken and beets might not be the most common pairing, but once you try them together you’ll wonder why it isn’t a classic. This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of beets and pairs it perfectly with tender, juicy chicken for a dish that’s both flavorful and nutritious.
We love how simple ingredients can create something so satisfying and vibrant. Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight dinner or a dish that impresses without fuss this chicken and beets recipe fits the bill. Plus it’s packed with protein and antioxidants making it a great choice for anyone wanting to eat well without sacrificing taste.
Let’s dive into this easy recipe that combines earthy beets with savory chicken in a way that’s sure to become a favorite in our kitchen.
Ingredients
To craft our vibrant Chicken and Beets Recipe, we combine fresh, wholesome ingredients that highlight the bold flavors and nutrition of this dish. Below, we break down the essential components for a perfectly balanced meal.
Chicken Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts – cut into 1-inch pieces for even cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – to lightly sauté and enhance flavor
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper – to taste for seasoning the chicken
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – adds a subtle smoky warmth that pairs beautifully with beets
Beet Ingredients
- 3 medium-sized fresh beets – peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes for roasting
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar – adds acidity and a sweet tang that elevates the earthy beets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – for roasting the beets until tender
- Salt to taste – to enhance beet sweetness
Additional Ingredients and Seasonings
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – for depth and aromatic fragrance
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves – adds a subtle herbal note
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley – for a fresh, bright garnish
- Juice of half a lemon – to brighten and balance the dish
- Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta – for creamy richness and tang
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | 1 lb | Cut into 1-inch pieces |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons (total) | 1 for chicken, 1 for beets |
| Salt | To taste | For chicken and beets |
| Black pepper | To taste | For chicken |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon | For chicken seasoning |
| Fresh beets | 3 medium | Peeled, cubed |
| Balsamic vinegar | 1 tablespoon | For beets |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Fresh thyme leaves | 1 teaspoon | Added to chicken |
| Fresh parsley | 1/4 cup | Chopped, for garnish |
| Lemon juice | From half a lemon | Added at final step |
| Goat cheese or feta | 1/4 cup (optional) | Crumbled, to garnish |
By gathering these fresh, nutrient-rich ingredients, we set the foundation for a dish bursting with color, flavor, and health benefits. Let’s proceed to the step-by-step preparation to bring this chicken and beets pairing to life.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our vibrant Chicken and Beets recipe flawlessly, we need to gather the right tools. Having the proper equipment on hand ensures each step is smooth and efficient, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Cutting Board
A sturdy cutting board is essential for safely chopping the fresh beets, mincing garlic, and trimming the chicken breasts.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife
Precision is key when slicing the chicken and dicing the beets to ensure even cooking and a beautiful texture.
- Vegetable Peeler
We use this tool to peel the tender skins off the beets before roasting or boiling.
- Large Mixing Bowl
For tossing beets with olive oil and seasonings and marinating the chicken.
- Baking Sheet or Roasting Pan
Perfect for roasting the beets and chicken simultaneously, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Skillet or Sauté Pan
To sear the chicken, develop a golden crust, and finish cooking on the stovetop.
- Tongs
For safely turning chicken pieces without piercing or losing juices.
- Meat Thermometer
To confirm the chicken reaches the optimal internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring food safety without overcooking.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups
Precise measurement of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and seasonings guarantees the perfect balance of flavors.
Equipment Overview Table
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting Board | Chopping beets and chicken | Use a non-slip board |
| Sharp Chef’s Knife | Slicing and dicing | Keep it well-sharpened |
| Vegetable Peeler | Removing beet skins | Gentle to preserve beet flesh |
| Large Mixing Bowl | Marinating and tossing ingredients | Use a size that fits all |
| Baking Sheet | Roasting beets and chicken | Line with parchment for easy cleanup |
| Skillet / Sauté Pan | Searing chicken | Use non-stick or cast iron |
| Tongs | Handling hot ingredients | Choose a sturdy pair |
| Meat Thermometer | Checking internal chicken temperature | Essential for safe cooking |
| Measuring Spoons / Cups | Accurate seasoning measurement | Enables recipe consistency |
These tools will guide us through every phase of the recipe, from prepping to plating, ensuring that our Chicken and Beets dish is a colorful, flavorful success every time.
Preparation
Let’s begin by preparing all the components that make this Chicken And Beets Recipe a vibrant and flavorful dish. Careful prep ensures every element cooks perfectly and melds beautifully on the plate.
Prepping the Chicken
- Rinse the boneless skinless chicken breasts under cold water and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps achieve a golden brown sear.
- Trim any visible fat or connective tissue to ensure even cooking and a tender bite.
- Slice the chicken into 1-inch thick medallions or keep whole if preferred for roasting. Thinner pieces cook evenly and quickly.
- Season generously on both sides with salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and smoked paprika, which imparts the recipe’s signature warmth.
- Let the chicken rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before cooking. This prevents contraction and uneven cooking.
Preparing the Beets
- Select fresh, firm beets with smooth skins for best results.
- Trim the leafy tops about 1 inch above the beet bulb to avoid bleeding of color when cooking.
- Peel the beets using a vegetable peeler. Wearing kitchen gloves can prevent staining your hands.
- Cut the beets into uniform 1-inch cubes or wedges to ensure quick and even roasting.
- Toss the beet pieces in olive oil, a pinch of salt, and a splash of balsamic vinegar to bring out their natural sweetness during roasting.
| Step | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Choose Beets | Firm, smooth skin | Avoid soft or shriveled beets |
| Trim Tops | 1 inch above bulb | Prevent color bleed |
| Peel | Use vegetable peeler | Wear gloves to avoid staining |
| Cut | 1-inch cubes/wedges | Ensures even cooking |
| Season | Olive oil, salt, vinegar | Enhances caramelization |
Preparing Additional Ingredients
- Mince 2 cloves of garlic finely to distribute flavor throughout the dish.
- Strip fresh thyme leaves from stems and roughly chop fresh parsley for garnish. Fresh herbs add bright herbal notes.
- If using goat cheese or feta, crumble about ¼ cup to sprinkle over the finished dish. This adds creamy tanginess.
- Measure out olive oil, smoked paprika, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper ahead of time to streamline cooking.
- Gather all prepared ingredients near your workstation to maintain a smooth cooking flow.
By prepping each element with care, we set ourselves up to execute this Chicken And Beets Recipe flawlessly, capturing all its rich textures and vibrant colors.
Cooking Instructions
Let’s bring our Chicken and Beets recipe to life by carefully cooking the beets and chicken to maximize flavor and texture. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a perfectly balanced and delicious dish.
Cooking the Beets
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C).
- Arrange the prepared beet pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle the beets with 1 tablespoon olive oil, then sprinkle with ¼ teaspoon salt and 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar.
- Toss the beets gently to coat them evenly.
- Spread the beets out in a single layer to ensure even roasting.
- Roast the beets for 35-40 minutes, turning once halfway through, until tender and slightly caramelized. You can check doneness by piercing a beet piece with a fork; it should slide in easily.
- Remove the beets from the oven and set aside.
Cooking the Chicken
- While the beets roast, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add 1 tablespoon olive oil to the skillet and swirl to coat.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts (seasoned with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika) in the skillet.
- Sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes on the first side without moving it to develop a golden crust.
- Flip the chicken and cook for another 5-6 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- During the last 2 minutes, add minced garlic and fresh thyme to the pan to infuse the chicken with aromatic flavor.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Combining Chicken and Beets
- Slice the rested chicken breasts into even strips.
- In a large serving bowl, combine the roasted beets with sliced chicken.
- Add chopped fresh parsley and toss gently to mix flavors.
- Optionally, crumble goat cheese or feta over the top for creamy contrast.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar if desired.
- Serve warm to enjoy the full harmony of savory chicken and earthy beets.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roast beets | 400°F (205°C) | 35-40 minutes | Turn halfway, check tenderness |
| Sear chicken (first side) | Medium-high | 5-6 minutes | Do not move to get crust |
| Cook chicken (second side) | Medium-high | 5-6 minutes | Ensure internal temp 165°F (75°C) |
| Rest chicken | Room temp | 5 minutes | Allows juices to redistribute |
This process ensures our Chicken and Beets recipe delivers a vibrant palette of flavors and textures with every bite.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Chicken and Beets Recipe, we recommend pairing it with sides and garnishes that enhance its natural flavors and vibrant colors. Here are some thoughtful Serving Suggestions to transform this dish into a complete and memorable meal:
Complementary Side Dishes
- Herbed Quinoa or Couscous: Their light texture and nutty flavor balance the earthiness of beets and richness of the chicken.
- Garlic Roasted Asparagus or Broccoli: Adds a fresh green crunch, complementing the roasted beets perfectly.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes or Cauliflower Mash: Provides a smooth contrast to the caramelized texture of beets and tender chicken slices.
Garnishing and Finishing Touches
- Crumble Goat Cheese or Feta: Sprinkle atop for a tangy, creamy dimension that pairs beautifully with the sweet beets.
- Fresh Parsley or Thyme Sprigs: Use as a vivid garnish to bring a fresh herbal aroma and bright green color to the plate.
- Drizzle of Balsamic Reduction or Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Adds a shiny finish and amplifies the overall flavor with subtle acidity or richness.
Beverage Pairings
Our dish complements both light-bodied white wines like Sauvignon Blanc and crisp rosé. For non-alcoholic options, consider a chilled sparkling water infused with lemon or a refreshing iced herbal tea.
Serving Temperature and Presentation
Serve the dish warm to enjoy the full depth of caramelized beets and juicy chicken. Arrange the sliced chicken over the beets on a warm plate, sprinkle with cheese and herbs, and add your chosen side on the side for a visually stunning presentation.
| Serving Component | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Herbed Quinoa or Couscous | Light and nutty grain base | Balance earthiness |
| Roasted Asparagus/Broccoli | Crisp, garlicky vegetable side | Fresh texture contrast |
| Mashed Potatoes/Cauliflower | Creamy and smooth | Texture contrast |
| Goat Cheese or Feta | Tangy creamy garnish | Flavor depth |
| Fresh Herbs | Bright green garnish | Aroma and color |
| Balsamic Reduction/Oil | Flavor enhancement drizzle | Acidity and richness |
| Beverage Options | Light wines or refreshing non-alcoholics | Palate cleansing |
By thoughtfully combining these elements, we turn our Chicken and Beets Recipe into a rich, satisfying meal brimming with textures, colors, and complementary flavors.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To enjoy our Chicken and Beets Recipe with minimal effort on busy days, planning ahead is key. Here’s how we can prepare, store, and reheat this vibrant dish for maximum flavor retention and food safety.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Roast Beets in Advance: We can roast the beets up to 3 days before serving. Store them peeled and cut in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Season and Cook Chicken Early: Cook the chicken breasts fully and cool them to room temperature. Keep them covered in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Prep Herbs and Garnishes: Chop fresh parsley and crumble goat cheese or feta the day before. Wrap them separately in plastic wrap or place in small containers.
- Combine at Serving Time: To maintain texture, combine the sliced chicken and roasted beets just before serving.
Storage Guidelines
| Component | Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roasted Beets | Airtight container, refrigerated | Up to 3 days | Keep peeled and cut for convenience |
| Cooked Chicken | Covered dish or container, refrigerated | Up to 2 days | Ensure chicken is fully cooled before storing |
| Fresh Herbs | Wrapped in damp paper towel, refrigerated | 1-2 days | Keeps herbs vibrant |
| Crumbled Cheese | Airtight container, refrigerated | Up to 5 days | Protect from moisture exposure |
Reheating Instructions
- Gentle Oven Reheat: Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Place chicken and beets in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Skillet Option: Warm sliced chicken and beets in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish covered loosely. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between, to avoid drying out.
Important Food Safety Notes
“Maintain refrigerator temperatures at or below 40°F (4°C) to keep our Chicken and Beets fresh and safe.”
- Always cool cooked ingredients to room temperature swiftly before refrigeration.
- Do not store the dish at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
- When reheating, chicken must reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) again.
By following these make-ahead and storage tips we ensure our dish stays delicious and safe while making meal prep easier throughout the week.
Conclusion
This Chicken and Beets recipe brings together bold flavors and wholesome ingredients in a way that’s both easy and rewarding. It’s perfect for anyone looking to add a nutritious, colorful dish to their meal rotation without spending hours in the kitchen.
With simple prep and straightforward cooking steps, it’s a dish we can confidently recommend for busy weeknights or when you want to impress with minimal effort. Give it a try and enjoy the satisfying blend of tender chicken and earthy roasted beets that’s as good for your health as it is for your taste buds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes chicken and beets a good flavor combination?
Chicken’s mild taste pairs well with the earthy sweetness of beets, creating a balanced, flavorful dish that is both satisfying and nutritious.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, it’s rich in protein, antioxidants, and essential nutrients, making it a healthy option for a well-rounded meal.
What are the key ingredients for this recipe?
Boneless skinless chicken breasts, fresh beets, olive oil, smoked paprika, balsamic vinegar, garlic, fresh thyme, parsley, and optional goat cheese or feta.
What kitchen tools do I need to make this dish?
You will need a cutting board, sharp chef’s knife, vegetable peeler, mixing bowl, baking sheet or roasting pan, skillet or sauté pan, tongs, meat thermometer, and measuring spoons/cups.
How should I prepare the chicken and beets?
Season chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Peel and cut beets into uniform pieces, then toss with olive oil, salt, and balsamic vinegar.
What is the cooking process for this recipe?
Roast beets at 400°F for 35-40 minutes, then sear chicken until golden and cooked to 165°F. Combine both with fresh parsley and optional cheese.
What are some good side dishes for chicken and beets?
Try herbed quinoa, couscous, garlic roasted asparagus, broccoli, mashed potatoes, or cauliflower mash to complement the dish.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Roast beets up to 3 days in advance and store in airtight containers. Cooked chicken can be refrigerated for up to 2 days; herbs and garnishes can be prepped the day before.
How do I store leftovers?
Store beets and chicken separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Use within 2-3 days for best quality and safety.
What beverages pair well with this dish?
Light-bodied white wines, sparkling water, or iced herbal teas are recommended to enhance the meal’s flavors without overpowering them.