One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken

Let me tell you, weeknight dinners in our house can sometimes feel like a culinary tightrope walk – balancing speed, ease, and, most importantly, flavor that everyone will actually enjoy. We’ve tried countless recipes, some hits, some definite misses. But then came the One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken. Oh. My. Goodness. This recipe wasn’t just a hit; it was a standing ovation from the entire family! From the moment the aroma of garlic and herbs started wafting from the oven, we knew we were onto something special. The chicken came out perfectly juicy and tender, infused with that incredible garlic butter sauce, and the vegetables roasting alongside were caramelized and bursting with flavor. Even my picky eaters devoured every last bite, and cleanup was a breeze thanks to the one-pan wonder. Honestly, this recipe has become a regular in our rotation, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both simple to make and utterly delicious. If you’re looking for a dinner that’s going to become a family favorite, look no further – this is it. Prepare to be amazed by the simplicity and incredible taste of this One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken!

Ingredients for the Ultimate One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken

This recipe is all about fresh, flavorful ingredients working together in perfect harmony. Here’s what you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece:

• Chicken Thighs (Bone-in, Skin-on): 8-10 pieces. Using bone-in, skin-on thighs ensures maximum flavor and juiciness as they are more forgiving and remain tender during roasting. The skin crisps up beautifully in the oven, adding a delightful textural contrast. You can also use bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts, but thighs are generally more flavorful and less prone to drying out.
• Baby Potatoes: 1.5 lbs, halved or quartered if large. Baby potatoes are fantastic for one-pan dishes because they cook relatively quickly and their thin skins don’t need peeling. Halving or quartering them ensures they cook through evenly and become tender and slightly crispy on the edges. You can use red potatoes, Yukon gold, or even fingerling potatoes.
• Broccoli Florets: 1 large head, cut into florets. Broccoli adds a vibrant green color and a healthy dose of vegetables to the dish. Roasting broccoli brings out its natural sweetness and gives it a lovely slightly charred and crispy texture. Ensure the florets are roughly the same size for even cooking.
• Garlic: 8-10 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic is the heart of this recipe, providing that signature pungent and aromatic flavor. Minced garlic infuses the butter sauce and the entire dish with its deliciousness. Don’t skimp on the garlic!
• Butter: ½ cup (1 stick), unsalted. Butter is the key to the rich, decadent sauce that coats the chicken and vegetables. Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish and ensures the flavors are balanced. The butter melts and combines with the garlic and herbs to create a luscious sauce.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons. Lemon juice adds a bright, zesty acidity that cuts through the richness of the butter and garlic, balancing the flavors and adding a refreshing touch. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always preferred for the best flavor.
• Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Thyme, Rosemary): 2 tablespoons, chopped mix. A blend of fresh herbs elevates the dish with aromatic complexity and herbaceous notes. Parsley adds freshness, thyme provides earthy notes, and rosemary offers a piney, fragrant aroma. You can use your favorite combination or just one or two of these herbs. Fresh herbs are significantly more flavorful than dried herbs in this recipe.
• Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon. Dried oregano adds a warm, slightly peppery flavor that complements the garlic and other herbs. It provides a deeper, more robust herbal note compared to fresh herbs.
• Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): ¼ teaspoon. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle hint of heat that enhances the overall flavor without making the dish overly spicy. It provides a pleasant warmth and complexity. Omit if you prefer a completely mild dish.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients. Season generously to ensure the chicken and vegetables are well-flavored. Freshly ground black pepper is always recommended for its superior aroma and taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken

This recipe is designed for simplicity and deliciousness. Follow these easy steps to create a flavorful and satisfying meal:

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prep the Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is ideal for roasting chicken and vegetables, ensuring they cook through and develop a beautiful golden-brown color. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Parchment paper prevents sticking and makes washing the pan a breeze. Alternatively, you can use foil, but parchment paper is generally preferred for non-stick properties.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and halve or quarter the baby potatoes, depending on their size. If they are very small, you can leave them whole. Cut the broccoli head into medium-sized florets, ensuring they are roughly the same size for even cooking. Place the potatoes and broccoli florets in a large bowl. Toss them with about 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Olive oil helps the vegetables roast and become tender and slightly crispy. Seasoning at this stage ensures the vegetables are flavorful from the inside out. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are not overcrowded, as overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting. If necessary, use two baking sheets to ensure even roasting.
3. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving crispy skin. Excess moisture on the chicken skin will prevent it from browning properly. Season the chicken generously on both sides with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Don’t be shy with the seasoning – it’s essential for flavorful chicken. Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the vegetables on the baking sheet, nestling them amongst the potatoes and broccoli.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Melting the butter first allows the garlic to infuse it beautifully. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook over low heat for about 1-2 minutes, or microwave for 30 seconds, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, rosemary). The lemon juice adds brightness, and the fresh herbs bring aromatic complexity to the sauce.
5. Pour the Sauce Over Everything: Drizzle the garlic butter sauce evenly over the chicken and vegetables on the baking sheet. Ensure everything is nicely coated with the flavorful sauce. The sauce will not only flavor the chicken and vegetables but also create a delicious pan sauce as it cooks.
6. Roast to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken at the thickest part to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat. The chicken should be golden brown and the juices should run clear when pierced with a fork. The vegetables should be tender and slightly caramelized.
7. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the chicken and vegetables rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product. Garnish with extra fresh parsley or lemon wedges, if desired, for added freshness and visual appeal. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken!

Nutritional Facts for One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken (per serving)

This recipe is not only delicious but also provides a balanced meal. Here are the approximate nutritional facts per serving, based on a recipe divided into 4 servings. Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on ingredient quantities and specific brands.

• Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe (approximately 1-2 chicken thighs, a generous portion of vegetables). This serving size is designed to be a satisfying and complete meal.
• Calories: Approximately 550-650 calories per serving. This provides a substantial amount of energy for a main meal. The calorie count can vary depending on the size of the chicken thighs and the amount of butter used.
• Protein: 40-50 grams of protein per serving. Chicken thighs are an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle building and satiety. This high protein content makes this dish very filling and satisfying.
• Fat: 35-45 grams of fat per serving. This includes both saturated fat from the butter and unsaturated fats from the chicken and olive oil. While the fat content is moderate, it contributes significantly to the flavor and richness of the dish. The type of fat is also important to consider for overall health.
• Carbohydrates: 20-30 grams of carbohydrates per serving. These carbohydrates primarily come from the potatoes and broccoli. Potatoes provide complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, while broccoli contributes fiber.

It is important to note: These are estimations. For precise nutritional information, you can use a nutrition calculator app or website and input the exact ingredients and quantities you use. Remember to adjust these values based on your specific dietary needs and portion sizes. This recipe can be adapted to be lower in fat by using less butter or skinless chicken, but these changes may affect the flavor and texture.

Preparation Time for One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken

One of the best things about this recipe is how quick and easy it is to prepare! From start to finish, you’ll spend minimal time in the kitchen, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals.

• Prep Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes. This includes washing and chopping the vegetables, patting dry and seasoning the chicken, mincing the garlic, chopping the herbs, and making the garlic butter sauce. The prep work is straightforward and doesn’t require any special culinary skills. Streamlining your prep by having all ingredients ready before you start cooking will make the process even faster.
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes in the oven. Once everything is prepped and in the oven, you can relax and let the oven do the work! The cooking time is mostly hands-off, allowing you to focus on other tasks or simply unwind while dinner cooks. The delicious aroma filling your kitchen is a bonus while you wait!
• Total Time: Roughly 50-60 minutes. From start to finish, you’ll have a complete and flavorful dinner on the table in under an hour. This makes One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken an incredibly efficient and satisfying meal option for any day of the week.

How to Serve One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken

This versatile dish is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal to the next level. Here are some serving suggestions to consider:

• Classic Sides:
  • Fluffy Rice: White rice, brown rice, or quinoa are excellent for soaking up the delicious garlic butter sauce from the pan.
  • Crusty Bread: A warm baguette, sourdough, or Italian bread is perfect for dipping into the flavorful sauce and enjoying every last bit.
  • Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken and butter sauce.
• Vegetable Enhancements:
  • Roasted Asparagus: Roast asparagus alongside the chicken and vegetables or separately for a complementary green vegetable.
  • Green Beans: Toss green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast them with the chicken for added vegetable variety.
  • Roasted Brussels Sprouts: For a heartier vegetable side, roasted Brussels sprouts pair wonderfully with the garlic butter flavors.
• Sauce and Garnish Ideas:
  • Pan Sauce: Don’t forget to spoon the flavorful pan sauce over the chicken and vegetables when serving. This sauce is packed with garlic, herbs, and buttery goodness.
  • Fresh Parsley: Garnish with extra chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
  • Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the chicken and vegetables, adding a final burst of brightness.
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese over the finished dish adds a salty, savory note.
• Make it a Complete Meal:
  • Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the pan, such as bell peppers, onions, or zucchini, to make it an even more complete and nutritious meal.
  • Serve over Pasta: For a heartier meal, serve the garlic butter chicken and vegetables over cooked pasta, such as linguine or fettuccine.

Additional Tips for Perfect One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken

Want to take your One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken from good to absolutely amazing? Here are 8 helpful tips to ensure success every time:

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure the chicken and vegetables are arranged in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding will cause steaming instead of roasting, resulting in soggy vegetables and chicken that doesn’t brown properly. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
2. Pat the Chicken Dry: Patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels before seasoning is crucial for achieving crispy skin. Excess moisture inhibits browning.
3. Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt, pepper, and oregano when seasoning the chicken and vegetables. Proper seasoning is key to flavorful results. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed throughout the cooking process.
4. Use Fresh Garlic and Herbs: Fresh garlic and herbs make a significant difference in the flavor of this dish compared to dried versions. They provide brighter and more aromatic notes. If you must use dried herbs, use about 1/3 of the amount called for fresh.
5. Adjust Vegetables to Your Preference: Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers, onions, zucchini, carrots, or asparagus. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as some vegetables cook faster than others.
6. Broil for Extra Crispy Skin (Optional): For extra crispy chicken skin, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking time. Watch it closely to prevent burning. Broiling adds a final touch of crispiness and color.
7. Let it Rest: Allow the chicken and vegetables to rest for 5-10 minutes after removing them from the oven. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
8. Make Ahead Tip: You can prepare the vegetables and chicken (seasoned) ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Make the garlic butter sauce separately and store it as well. When ready to cook, simply assemble everything on the baking sheet and roast as directed. This can save you time on busy weeknights.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken

Got questions about making One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken? We’ve got answers! Here are 8 frequently asked questions to help you create the perfect dish:

Q1: Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?
A: Yes, you can use bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts. However, chicken breasts tend to be leaner and can dry out more easily than thighs. If using breasts, monitor the internal temperature closely and consider reducing the cooking time slightly. Bone-in, skin-on breasts are still preferable over boneless, skinless for flavor and moisture.

Q2: Can I use frozen vegetables?
A: While fresh vegetables are recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen vegetables in a pinch. If using frozen vegetables, there’s no need to thaw them. Add them to the baking sheet directly from frozen, but you may need to increase the cooking time slightly. Keep in mind frozen vegetables might release more water, potentially affecting the crispiness.

Q3: Can I make this recipe without potatoes?
A: Absolutely! If you’re watching your carbohydrate intake or simply prefer other vegetables, you can omit the potatoes. Replace them with more broccoli, cauliflower, or other root vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes. Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the vegetables you choose.

Q4: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While best served fresh, you can prepare components of this recipe ahead of time. You can chop the vegetables and season the chicken a day in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. The garlic butter sauce can also be made ahead and stored. Assemble and roast just before serving. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated.

Q5: What if I don’t have fresh herbs? Can I use dried herbs instead?
A: Yes, you can substitute dried herbs for fresh herbs if needed. However, fresh herbs provide a brighter and more pronounced flavor. If using dried herbs, use about 1/3 of the amount called for fresh. For example, if the recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of fresh herbs, use about 2 teaspoons of dried herbs.

Q6: How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
A: The safest and most accurate way to check if chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken thigh, avoiding the bone. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The juices should also run clear when pierced with a fork, and the chicken should no longer be pink.

Q7: Can I add cheese to this dish?
A: While not traditionally included, you can certainly add cheese to this recipe. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and vegetables during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking, or after it’s cooked and rested. Mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses would also be delicious.

Q8: Is this recipe spicy?
A: This recipe as written is not spicy. The red pepper flakes are optional and add only a very mild warmth. If you prefer a spicier dish, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter sauce. You could also serve it with a side of hot sauce for those who like extra heat.

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