If you’ve ever found yourself staring at raw chicken and wondering, “What can I possibly make for dinner tonight?”, you’re not alone. Chicken is one of the most versatile proteins, yet we often fall into the same boring recipes. Today, I’m sharing one of my favorite chicken dinner ideas: Garlic Butter Chicken with Roasted Vegetables.
This recipe is easy, wholesome, and bursting with flavor—perfect for busy weeknights but elegant enough for entertaining. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering chicken dinner:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, thyme, or basil)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups baby potatoes (halved)
- 1 ½ cups carrots (cut into sticks)
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or sheet pan.
Step 2: Make Garlic Butter Marinade
In a bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, herbs, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the chicken breasts. Reserve a little sauce for later.
Step 4: Prepare the Vegetables
In a separate bowl, toss potatoes, carrots, and broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on the baking dish.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place chicken on top of the vegetables. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Add Final Touches
Brush the reserved garlic butter over the cooked chicken for extra flavor. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Cooking Tips & Variations
- Substitutions: Swap chicken breasts with thighs for juicier results.
- Spice It Up: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a kick.
- Vegetable Options: Try zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~380
- Protein: 34g
- Carbs: 18g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
Serving Suggestions
This chicken dinner pairs perfectly with:
- A crisp garden salad
- Warm garlic bread
- A glass of chilled white wine
FAQs
Can I make this chicken dinner ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken and prep the veggies a day in advance. Bake just before serving.
How do I know when chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer—chicken is safe to eat at 165°F (74°C).
Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?
Absolutely. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway.
What if I don’t have fresh garlic?
Use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder per clove.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this chicken dinner recipe is naturally gluten-free.
External Resource
For more on safe chicken cooking practices, check out the official USDA Chicken Safety Guidelines.
Conclusion
This garlic butter chicken with roasted vegetables is one of the best chicken dinner ideas you can rely on for busy weeknights. It’s simple, healthy, and irresistibly delicious.
👉 Try it tonight and let me know how it turned out in the comments!
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