Introduction
Welcome to the ultimate comfort food experience with our Warm & Cozy One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies! As the days grow shorter and the temperatures begin to drop, there’s nothing quite like a hearty, home-cooked meal to bring warmth and joy to our kitchens and our hearts. This delightful one-pan dish is not only easy to prepare, but it also bursts with flavor, thanks to the rich garlic butter sauce that envelops tender chicken and vibrant seasonal vegetables.
Imagine walking in after a long day, greeted by the enchanting aroma of garlic sizzling in butter, mingling with the savory scent of succulent chicken and fresh veggies. The best part? Clean-up is a breeze since everything cooks in just one pan! Ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy Sunday dinner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this dish offers both nutrition and satisfaction. With a perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and colorful veggies, you can indulge in a meal that feels indulgent but won’t weigh you down. So, grab your favorite skillet and let’s dive into this deliciously simple recipe that’ll surely warm your soul!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup baby carrots, halved
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup baby potatoes, halved
- 1 lemon, juiced (plus wedges for serving)
Instructions
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- Prepare the Chicken: Generously season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and paprika on both sides.
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- Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the seasoned chicken thighs and cook for approximately 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Once finished, place them on a plate and loosely cover them with foil to keep warm.
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- Sauté the Veggies: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. When melted, introduce the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it releases a fragrant aroma.
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- Incorporate the Veggies: Add the baby carrots, green beans, and baby potatoes to the skillet. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then stir thoroughly to coat the vegetables in the garlic butter. Continue to sauté for around 10-15 minutes, or until the veggies are tender yet remain slightly crisp.
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- Mix Everything Together: Place the chicken thighs back into the skillet. Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the chicken and vegetables. Gently stir everything to combine and allow to heat through for an additional 5 minutes.
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- Serve: Once everything is nicely heated and ready, serve in bowls or on plates, accompanied by lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 40 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- Chicken Breast: 1.5 to 2 pounds, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Garlic: 4-6 cloves, minced, to infuse the dish with rich flavor.
- Butter: 4 tablespoons, unsalted, for a luscious garlic butter sauce.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, for sautéing and to add extra richness.
- Vegetables:
- 1 cup baby potatoes, halved
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh Herbs: 1 tablespoon each of fresh thyme and rosemary, chopped, to brighten the dish.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, elevating flavors.
- Lemon: 1, juiced and zested, for a touch of freshness and acidity.
This combination of ingredients will create a delightful and hearty meal to warm your soul on any night!
Baking Process
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your chicken and veggies cook evenly and thoroughly.
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Prepare the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, add your chicken pieces (thighs or breasts, according to your preference). Drizzle them with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Toss to coat the chicken evenly.
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Melt the Garlic Butter: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Combine Ingredients: Pour the garlic butter over the seasoned chicken, making sure all pieces are well-coated. If desired, add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
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Prepare the Vegetables: On a large baking sheet, arrange the veggies of your choice—such as diced potatoes, carrots, bell peppers, and green beans. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs. Toss the veggies to ensure they are well-coated.
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Assemble on the Baking Sheet: Nestle the coated chicken pieces among the vegetables on the baking sheet. Pour any remaining garlic butter mixture over the top for added moisture and flavor.
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Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. During the last 10 minutes, you can switch your oven to broil to achieve a gorgeous golden finish on the chicken and veggies, making sure to keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
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Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute in the chicken, keeping it tender and juicy. Serve warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
Enjoy your warm and cozy meal, perfect for chilly evenings!
Serving Suggestions
To enhance your experience with this Warm & Cozy One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies, consider these delightful serving suggestions:
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Serve with Rice or Quinoa: A fluffy bed of jasmine rice or protein-packed quinoa complements the savory chicken and veggies, soaking up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
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Add a Side Salad: A crisp arugula or spinach salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. Toss in some cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado for extra flavor.
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Accompany with Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or artisan bread is perfect for mopping up the garlic butter sauce, making each bite even more enjoyable.
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Pair with Wine: A glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, enhances the meal beautifully, while a light red, like Pinot Noir, offers a nice balance as well.
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Top with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil before serving not only adds color but also elevates the dish with a burst of fresh flavor.
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Add Cheese: If you’re feeling indulgent, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or crumbled feta just before serving can add a wonderfully creamy texture and savory flavor to the dish.
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Enjoy with Roasted Potatoes: For a heartier meal, serve your chicken and veggies over a bed of roasted potatoes seasoned with garlic and herbs to tie the flavors together.
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Create a Wrap: Use leftover chicken and veggies to create a tantalizing wrap or pita, adding your favorite sauces or spread for a quick and tasty lunch option.
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create a meal that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with friends and family!
Conclusion
In just one pan and about 30 minutes, you can create a meal that’s not only packed with flavor but also brimming with wholesome ingredients. The combination of juicy chicken, vibrant veggies, and garlic butter creates a warm and cozy dish perfect for any weeknight dinner or when you’re in need of a comforting meal. The best part is the minimal cleanup, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your creation rather than washing dishes. Serve it up with some crusty bread or over a bed of rice to soak up the delicious sauce, and you have a winner on your hands! Don’t hesitate to customize the veggies based on what you have on hand—this recipe is wonderfully versatile. We hope this delightful dish becomes a regular in your meal rotation, bringing warmth and cheer to your dining table. Enjoy every savory bite!
