Ultimate Roasted Chicken and Veggies: A Healthy and Delicious Meal
If you’re looking for a simple yet satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrition, then look no further than our Roasted Chicken and Veggies recipe. This one-pan dish combines tender chicken breast with an array of colorful vegetables, all roasted to perfection with a medley of seasonings. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week ahead or serving up a hearty dinner for the family, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Join us as we walk you through the steps to create this wholesome and delicious dish, along with cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions for those following specific dietary plans.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium chicken breasts, chopped
- 1 cup bell pepper, chopped (any colors you like)
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup tomatoes, chopped or plum/grape
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Chicken and Veggies: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken breasts, bell pepper, onion, zucchini, broccoli florets, and tomatoes.
- Season: Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and veggies, then sprinkle with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika if using. Toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned chicken and veggies out in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized around the edges.
- Serve: Once done, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the chicken and veggies cool slightly before serving. Enjoy hot as a standalone meal or pair with your favorite side dishes.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Uniform Cutting: For even cooking, try to chop the chicken and veggies into uniform-sized pieces.
- Customize the Veggies: Feel free to swap out the vegetables listed in the recipe for your favorites. Other great options include carrots, cauliflower, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Boost the flavor of your roasted chicken and veggies by adding fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil before roasting.
- Make it Spicy: For an extra kick of flavor, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the chicken and veggies before roasting.
Keto and Low-Carb Version:
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here’s how to adapt this recipe:
- Choose Low-Carb Veggies: Opt for low-carb vegetables such as cauliflower, broccoli, bell peppers, and zucchini.
- Use Avocado Oil: Substitute avocado oil for olive oil for a keto-friendly fat source.
- Check Seasonings: Double-check the ingredients in your Italian seasoning blend to ensure it doesn’t contain added sugars or starches.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly as thighs may take slightly longer to cook than breasts.
Q: Can I meal prep this dish in advance? A: Absolutely! Roasted chicken and veggies make excellent meal prep options. Simply roast a large batch, divide into meal-sized portions, and store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: While roasted chicken and veggies can be frozen, the texture of the vegetables may change slightly upon thawing. For best results, freeze the chicken and veggies separately and reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy.
With its vibrant colors, robust flavors, and ease of preparation, our Roasted Chicken and Veggies recipe is a true winner. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply looking for a nutritious meal to enjoy during the week, this dish has you covered. From its juicy chicken to its tender-crisp vegetables, every bite is a delight for the senses. Give it a try and discover the joy of wholesome, homemade cooking