Introduction
Welcome to your new favorite weeknight dinner! If you’re searching for a meal that comes together quickly, packs a punch of flavor, and requires minimal cleanup, look no further than this Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies. Ideal for busy evenings when time is of the essence, this one-pan wonder features juicy chicken thighs roasted to perfection alongside a vibrant assortment of seasonal vegetables.
The star of this dish is the rich and aromatic garlic butter sauce that infuses both the chicken and the veggies with a delightful depth of flavor. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a wholesome and satisfying meal that everyone at the table will love. Not only is it delicious, but the colorful presentation makes it as visually appealing as it is tasty.
So, if you’re ready to simplify your dinner routine without sacrificing flavor, roll up your sleeves and get ready to dive into this easy-to-follow recipe. Let’s make weeknight cooking a breeze!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for maximum flavor)
- 4 cups assorted vegetables (such as broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots)
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning (or your preferred herb mix)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
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- Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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- In a sizable mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined, creating a tasty garlic butter.
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- Incorporate the chicken thighs into the bowl, ensuring they are thoroughly coated in the garlic butter blend. Allow them to marinate briefly while you prepare the vegetables.
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- On a spacious sheet pan, arrange the assorted vegetables. Drizzle with olive oil and season with a light sprinkle of salt and pepper. Toss gently to combine.
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- Position the marinated chicken thighs on top of the vegetables, skin-side facing up, ensuring everything is laid out in a single layer.
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- Drizzle any leftover garlic butter mixture over the chicken thighs for added flavor.
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- Transfer the sheet pan to the preheated oven and roast for approximately 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the skin is a lovely golden brown.
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- Take the sheet pan out of the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 50 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- Chicken Thighs: Juicy and flavorful, chicken thighs work beautifully for roasting and stay tender.
- Butter: Adds rich flavor and helps to create a delicious garlic butter sauce.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides a fragrant base that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Vegetables: A mix of your favorites, such as broccoli, bell peppers, and baby carrots, for a colorful and nutritious side.
- Olive Oil: To help roast the veggies to perfection and add healthy fats.
- Herbs and Spices: Dried thyme, rosemary, and paprika elevate the dish with depth of flavor.
- Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the richness of the butter.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the flavors of the chicken and vegetables.
Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand for a delightful weeknight meal!
Baking Process
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken and vegetables cook evenly and get that beautiful roasted finish.
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Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with melted garlic butter. To make the garlic butter, simply melt unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat and mix in minced garlic, salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you desire (such as paprika or Italian herbs). Toss the chicken well to coat it thoroughly in the garlic butter.
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Prep the Vegetables: Choose a mix of your favorite vegetables such as broccoli florets, diced carrots, bell peppers, and red onions. Chop them into uniform pieces for even cooking. In another bowl, drizzle the vegetables with some garlic butter (reserve a little for basting) and toss to coat. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or spices you like.
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Assemble the Sheet Pan: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Arrange the chicken pieces on one side of the pan, making sure they’re not overcrowded. On the other side, spread out the prepared vegetables. If you want, toss in some halved baby potatoes for added heartiness—just be sure they’re cut small enough to cook through.
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Bake the Dish: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized. If desired, you can baste the chicken and veggies with the reserved garlic butter halfway through for extra flavor.
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Broil for a Crispy Finish: For an extra crispy texture, switch the oven to broil during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on the pan to avoid burning; you’re aiming for a beautiful golden-brown color.
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Let It Rest: Once the chicken and veggies are done, remove the sheet pan from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle in the chicken, keeping it moist and flavorful.
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Serve and Enjoy: Slice the chicken if desired, and serve it alongside the roasted veggies. This dish is perfect on its own or paired with a simple side salad or quinoa for a balanced meal. Enjoy your hassle-free weeknight dinner!
Serving Suggestions
This Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies dish is not only a delicious weeknight meal but also versatile enough to pair with various sides and accompaniments. Here are some great serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience:
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Fresh Green Salad: A light arugula or spinach salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette can add a refreshing crunch and balance to the richness of the garlic butter chicken.
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Quinoa or Rice: Serve the chicken and veggies over a bed of fluffy quinoa or jasmine rice. The grains will soak up the flavorful garlic butter sauce, making every bite satisfying.
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Crusty Bread: A side of crusty French or Italian bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate. You could also serve garlic bread for a double dose of garlic goodness.
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Roasted Potatoes: If you want to add extra carbs, consider the classic pairing of roasted potatoes. Season them similarly to the chicken and veggies for a harmonious flavor profile.
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Steamed or Sautéed Greens: Brighten the meal with a side of sautéed spinach, kale, or green beans. A touch of lemon juice can enhance their flavor and complement the chicken.
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Herbed Yogurt Sauce: For a creamy addition, serve a dollop of herbed yogurt or tzatziki on the side. The coolness will contrast nicely with the warm spices and butter.
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Citrus Wedges: Provide wedges of lemon or lime for squeezing over the chicken and veggies. The acidity will brighten the dish and elevate the garlic-infused flavors.
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Wine Pairing: If you’re enjoying this dish for a special occasion, consider pairing it with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which can complement the garlic and buttery notes beautifully.
Customize your plate with these suggestions to make the most out of your Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies. Enjoy!
Conclusion
This Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies recipe is the perfect answer to your busy weeknight dinner dilemmas. Not only does it simplify meal prep with minimal cleanup, but it also packs a punch in flavor and nutrition. The combination of succulent chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich garlic butter sauce creates a wholesome dish that the whole family will love.
You can easily customize the veggies or swap in your favorite seasonings, making it a versatile go-to for any occasion. Plus, with the convenience of just one pan, you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying a delicious meal with your loved ones. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or prepping for a cozy weekend feast, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household. Happy cooking!