Quick & Easy One Dish Chicken Dinner Recipes Tonight!
Imagine tender chicken, infused with the rich aroma of herbs and spices, nestled amongst vibrant vegetables, all cooked together to succulent perfection. The beauty of this culinary approach lies in its simplicity; each ingredient lends its unique flavor to create a harmonious symphony of tastes. The chicken, juicy and flavorful, readily absorbs the surrounding essences, while the vegetables become delightfully tender, providing a textural counterpoint that elevates the entire experience.
Equipment
- Large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven (minimum 12-inch diameter)
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tongs or slotted spoon
- Oven mitts
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large onion chopped
- 2 carrots peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks chopped
- 1 lb red potatoes quartered
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup frozen peas added during the last 5 minutes of cooking
- Optional: Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables: Preheat oven to 400F (200C). In a large bowl, toss the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Step 2: Sear the Chicken: Heat a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sear on all sides until lightly browned. This step adds depth of flavor to the final dish. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Step 3: Saut Aromatics: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and saut for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Step 4: Combine Ingredients: Add the tossed vegetables to the skillet and spread them in an even layer. Place the seared chicken pieces on top of the vegetables.
- Step 5: Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and vegetables. Add the dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaf. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 6: Bake: Bring the mixture to a simmer on the stovetop, then transfer the skillet or Dutch oven to the preheated oven. Bake for 30-40 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: Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and discard the bay leaf. If using, stir in the frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, before serving.
- Optional Tips: For a creamier dish, stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or sour cream after removing from the oven. To add more color and flavor, include other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. Chicken breasts can be used instead of chicken thighs, but may require a shorter cooking time. For gluten-free dietary needs, make sure chicken broth is gluten-free certified.
Notes
Variations
The foundational recipe for “One dish chicken dinner recipes easy” serves as a canvas for numerous adaptations:
- Ingredient Swaps: For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or firm tofu. Other vegetable alternatives include butternut squash, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts. The broth can be swapped with vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist.
- Regional Twists: A Mediterranean flavor profile can be achieved by adding olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese. An Asian-inspired variation could incorporate soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. A Tex-Mex version might include corn, black beans, and a touch of chili powder.
- Dietary Adjustments: To reduce sodium content, use low-sodium chicken broth and avoid adding extra salt. To enhance the dish for those with dietary needs for higher potassium, use red and sweet potatoes. To adhere to a low-carb diet, increase the amount of non-starchy vegetables and reduce the potato portion, or consider cauliflower rice as a substitute.
Serving Suggestions
This one-dish chicken dinner excels as a complete meal, ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. It pairs well with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, serve with a crusty bread for soaking up the flavorful broth. The dish is particularly satisfying during cooler months, offering a warm and comforting option. The leftovers can also be enjoyed cold as a chicken salad or repurposed in wraps or sandwiches.
Storage Tips
To preserve freshness, allow the chicken dinner to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly and consume within 3-4 days. The dish can also be frozen for longer storage; however, the texture of the potatoes may change slightly upon thawing. To reheat, microwave individual portions or warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F (74C) before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can this recipe be made ahead of time? The vegetables can be chopped a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The chicken can also be pre-seared but it will shorten the total shelf life in refrigerator. The entire dish can be assembled ahead of time, but it is best to bake it fresh for optimal quality.
- Question 2: Can other types of chicken be used? While the recipe calls for chicken thighs, chicken breasts can be substituted. However, chicken breasts tend to dry out more quickly, so reduce the cooking time accordingly.
- Question 3: Is it necessary to sear the chicken before baking? Searing the chicken is not strictly necessary but it adds a depth of flavor to the dish. If time is short, the searing step can be skipped.
- Question 4: Can frozen vegetables be used? Frozen vegetables can be used, but it’s best to add them towards the end of the cooking time to prevent them from becoming too mushy.
- Question 5: Can I use a different type of broth? Yes, beef or vegetable broth can be used as alternatives to chicken broth, depending on flavor preference. Note that the flavor profile will change accordingly.