Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipes: One Dish Meals
Imagine tender, juicy chicken, infused with savory herbs and spices, nestled amongst a medley of roasted vegetables, all harmonizing in a single pan. The aroma alone, a blend of fragrant seasonings and caramelized sweetness, promises a deeply satisfying meal. Each bite delivers a symphony of textures the chicken's yielding flesh, the slight crispness of the vegetables, and the comforting warmth that spreads with every mouthful.
Equipment
- Large Baking Sheet: A rimmed baking sheet (12x17 inches or larger) is essential for even cooking.
- Large Mixing Bowl: To toss the vegetables with olive oil and seasonings.
- Cutting Board: For safely chopping vegetables.
- Chef's Knife: A sharp knife is important for efficient and safe vegetable preparation.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: For accurate seasoning and oil measurements.
- Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165F (74C).
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 pound small red potatoes quartered
- 1 large red onion cut into wedges
- 2 bell peppers any color, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 400F (200C). Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the center for even cooking.
- Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the quartered red potatoes, red onion wedges, bell pepper pieces, and broccoli florets. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss thoroughly to ensure all vegetables are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
- Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned vegetables in a single layer on a large baking sheet. If the baking sheet is not large enough, use two baking sheets to avoid overcrowding, which can steam the vegetables instead of roasting them.
- Step 4: Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Lightly drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the seasonings.
- Step 5: Add Chicken to Baking Sheet: Place the seasoned chicken breasts among the vegetables on the baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
- Step 6: Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165F (74C).
- Step 7: Rest and Serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender chicken. Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges, if desired.
- Optional Tips and Substitutions: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vegetables and chicken. Feel free to substitute other vegetables based on seasonal availability or preference, such as zucchini, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus. For dairy-free, ensure the Italian seasoning blend does not contain any dairy ingredients. If you don't have Italian seasoning, use a mix of dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary. You can also use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
Notes
Variations
The versatility of oven-baked one-dish chicken breast recipes allows for numerous adaptations:
- Ingredient Swaps: Chicken thighs can be substituted for chicken breasts for a richer flavor. Vegetables such as zucchini, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or mushrooms can replace or supplement the listed vegetables. Sweet potatoes or butternut squash can replace red potatoes for a different flavor profile.
- Regional Twists: For a Mediterranean twist, incorporate Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes. For a Tex-Mex flavor, add black beans, corn, and chili powder. An Asian-inspired version can include soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil.
- Dietary Adjustments: To make the recipe dairy-free, ensure the Italian seasoning is dairy-free and omit any cheese toppings. For a gluten-free option, verify that all seasonings and sauces are gluten-free. A low-carb version can be achieved by increasing the amount of non-starchy vegetables and reducing or eliminating potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Oven-baked one-dish chicken breast recipes are highly versatile and can be served in various ways:
- Weeknight Dinners: Serve immediately as a complete and balanced meal for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
- Meal Prep: Prepare the dish on the weekend for easy meal prep throughout the week. Divide into individual containers for convenient lunches or dinners.
- Special Occasions: The dish can be elevated for special occasions by using higher-quality ingredients and arranging them artfully on a platter. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can add a finishing touch.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is crucial for preserving the freshness and quality of the dish:
- Refrigeration: Allow the dish to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be stored for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the dish in the oven at 350F (175C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, it can be reheated in the microwave, but the vegetables may become slightly softer.
- Freezing: While not ideal, the dish can be frozen for longer storage. However, the texture of the vegetables may change upon thawing. To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then divide into freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: How do I prevent the chicken from drying out? To prevent the chicken from drying out, ensure it is not overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, and remove it from the oven when it reaches 165F (74C). Brining the chicken beforehand can also help retain moisture.
- Question 2: Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen vegetables can be used. However, they may release more moisture during cooking, potentially affecting the overall texture of the dish. Consider adding them later in the cooking process or increasing the cooking time to compensate.
- Question 3: What if my vegetables are not cooking evenly? Ensure that the vegetables are cut into similar sizes for even cooking. If some vegetables are cooking faster than others, you can remove them from the baking sheet or place them on a separate baking sheet with a lower oven rack position.
- Question 4: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes, the vegetables can be chopped and seasoned ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Season the chicken just before baking to prevent it from drying out.