Easy Simple One Dish Chicken Breast Recipes - Dinner
Imagine tender chicken, infused with fragrant herbs and spices, nestled amongst a medley of vibrant vegetables. The beauty of this culinary approach lies not only in its delectable outcome but also in its simplicity. A symphony of flavors melds together as the ingredients bake or simmer in perfect harmony, offering a complete and satisfying meal experience in a single pan.
Equipment
- Large Baking Sheet (12x17 inches recommended)
- Parchment Paper
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Tongs or Spatula
- Meat thermometer (optional, but recommended for ensuring chicken is fully cooked)
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 red bell pepper sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper sliced
- 1 zucchini sliced
- 1 red onion sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese for serving
- Optional: Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 400F (200C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Step 2: Prepare Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the sliced bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes. Add the minced garlic.
- Step 3: Season Vegetables: Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil and lemon juice. Sprinkle with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Toss well to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 5: Prepare Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on top of the vegetables on the baking sheet. Lightly drizzle the chicken breasts with a bit more olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Step 6: Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 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: Serve: Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. If desired, sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley before serving.
- Tips and Substitutions:
- For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vegetables. Other vegetables like broccoli florets, asparagus, or mushrooms can be substituted based on preference and seasonal availability. To make it dairy-free, simply omit the feta cheese. For a richer flavor, use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
Notes
Variations
The foundation of simple one dish chicken breast recipes allows for substantial flexibility in adapting to individual preferences and dietary requirements. These recipes can be transformed through strategic ingredient substitutions, regional flavor profiles, and dietary adjustments.
- Ingredient Swaps: Vegetables can be readily exchanged based on seasonality and availability. Broccoli, asparagus, mushrooms, or Brussels sprouts can replace the bell peppers and zucchini. For a carbohydrate boost, consider adding small red potatoes or sweet potato chunks.
- Regional Twists:
- Mediterranean: Incorporate Kalamata olives, artichoke hearts, and sun-dried tomatoes. Season with oregano, thyme, and a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
- Mexican: Use a blend of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Serve with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cilantro. Consider adding black beans or corn.
- Asian: Marinate the chicken in soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Add bok choy, snow peas, and sliced carrots to the vegetable mix. Drizzle with sesame oil before serving.
- Italian: Use Italian seasoning, minced garlic, and a can of diced tomatoes. Add sliced mushrooms and bell peppers. Top with mozzarella cheese during the last few minutes of baking.
- Dietary Adjustments:
- Low-Carb/Keto: Focus on non-starchy vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, and cauliflower. Ensure a high ratio of healthy fats.
- Dairy-Free: Omit the feta cheese or substitute with a dairy-free alternative.
- Gluten-Free: Verify that all seasoning blends are gluten-free. This recipe is naturally gluten-free if using tamari instead of soy sauce for Asian variation.
- Paleo: Emphasize whole, unprocessed ingredients and avoid grains and legumes.
Serving Suggestions
Simple one dish chicken breast recipes lend themselves well to a variety of serving occasions. The dish is equally suitable for a casual weeknight dinner or a more formal weekend gathering. To enhance the dining experience:
- Serve immediately after cooking for optimal flavor and texture.
- Accompany with a side of quinoa, couscous, or brown rice for a more substantial meal.
- Pair with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to add freshness and balance.
- Offer crusty bread for soaking up the flavorful pan juices.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, to add visual appeal and aroma.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is crucial for preserving the freshness and flavor of the cooked dish.
- Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, preheat oven to 350F (175C) and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.
- Freezing is not recommended as the vegetables may become mushy upon thawing. If freezing is necessary, use freezer-safe containers and consume within 1-2 months. Note the texture may change.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can I use frozen vegetables?
Answer: Yes, frozen vegetables can be used. Add them directly to the baking sheet without thawing, and adjust the cooking time as needed. - Question 2: How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Answer: Avoid overcooking the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165F (74C). Drizzling with olive oil and ensuring the vegetables release moisture can also help. - Question 3: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Answer: The vegetables can be chopped and seasoned in advance, but it is best to add the chicken breasts just before baking to prevent them from drying out. - Question 4: Can I use bone-in chicken breasts?
Answer: Bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts can be used, but will require a longer cooking time. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 175F (80C) for dark meat.