There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish that combines tender baked chicken with a medley of colorful vegetables. This baked chicken and vegetable recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packs a flavorful punch that will satisfy the whole family.
Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or preparing a relaxed weekend meal, this recipe offers a perfect balance of protein and nutrients with minimal fuss.
Imagine juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken breasts roasting alongside vibrant carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini, all infused with herbs and a touch of garlic. The vegetables become tender and slightly caramelized, absorbing the delicious juices from the chicken for a naturally savory experience.
Plus, this one-pan dish means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. Ready to elevate your dinner game?
Let’s dive into the details!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile—feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
The baking process locks in moisture, ensuring your chicken stays juicy and tender.
It’s also a wholesome, balanced meal that requires minimal prep and cooking time, making it ideal for busy lifestyles. The natural roasting enhances the flavors of each ingredient, meaning you can keep the seasoning simple and still achieve a delicious result.
Finally, the recipe is perfect for meal prep or feeding a family, with plenty of leftovers that taste just as good the next day.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, sliced (optional, for garnish and flavor)
Equipment
- Large baking sheet or roasting pan
- Mixing bowl
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Tongs or spatula
- Aluminum foil (optional) for easy cleanup
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting the chicken and vegetables evenly, creating a beautiful caramelization.
- Prepare the vegetables. Wash and cut the carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, and onion as described above. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the marinade. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until well blended.
- Toss the vegetables with half of the marinade. Make sure each piece is well coated to enhance the roasting flavors.
- Place the chicken breasts in the baking sheet. Brush or rub the remaining marinade evenly over the chicken, ensuring a good coating on all sides.
- Arrange the vegetables around the chicken. Spread them in a single layer so they roast evenly.
- Optional: Add lemon slices on top of the chicken and vegetables. This adds a bright citrus flavor that complements the herbs beautifully.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of your chicken breasts. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure doneness.
- Halfway through cooking, stir the vegetables gently. This will help them roast evenly and prevent sticking.
- Once cooked, remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
- Serve warm. Plate the chicken with a generous helping of the roasted vegetables, and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
For juicier chicken, consider marinating the chicken breasts in the olive oil and herb mixture for 30 minutes to an hour before baking.
You can easily customize this dish by swapping vegetables based on what’s in season or available in your pantry. Try adding sweet potatoes, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for different flavors and textures.
If you prefer a little heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on the chicken before baking. Alternatively, for a smoky twist, add a dash of smoked paprika to your marinade.
To make it a complete meal, serve with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice or steamed quinoa pairs wonderfully.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 350 kcal |
Protein | 38 g |
Fat | 14 g |
Carbohydrates | 12 g |
Fiber | 3 g |
Sodium | 450 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This baked chicken and vegetable dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside:
- Steamed jasmine or basmati rice for a simple, comforting meal.
- A light quinoa salad with fresh herbs and lemon vinaigrette for added freshness.
- Garlic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for a more indulgent plate.
- For a Mediterranean touch, serve with warm pita bread and a side of hummus.
Don’t forget to check out our Chicken and Roasted Veg Recipes for Easy Healthy Meals for more inspiration on pairing and variations.
Conclusion
This baked chicken and vegetable recipe is a perfect example of simple ingredients coming together for a delicious and nourishing meal. Its ease of preparation, combined with the wholesome flavors of fresh herbs and roasted veggies, makes it a staple recipe you’ll return to time and again.
Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a hearty dinner, this recipe delivers satisfaction without stress.
Remember, cooking is all about enjoyment and creativity, so feel free to experiment with the vegetables or spices to make this dish your own. If you love hearty meals like this, you might also enjoy exploring other recipes like A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or add more wholesome grains with Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.
Happy cooking and bon appétit!
📖 Recipe Card: Baked Chicken and Vegetable Recipe
Description: A simple and healthy baked chicken dish with a medley of vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT55M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- Add broccoli, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and zucchini around the chicken.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the olive oil mixture over the chicken and vegetables.
- Arrange lemon slices on top of the chicken.
- Bake for 40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 40 g | Fat: 15 g | Carbs: 12 g
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