Hey there! If you’re looking for an easy and delicious option for dinner, chicken recipes are always a winner in my book. Seriously, there’s something so comforting about a perfectly baked chicken dish, and let me tell you, this one is a breeze to whip up! I remember the first time I made this recipe; I was pleasantly surprised by how simple it was and how quickly it came together. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to get in some veggies with the addition of broccoli! So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this chicken recipe for dinner that’s sure to impress your family or friends without any stress. You’ll love how tasty and satisfying this dish is!
Ingredients List
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup cooked white rice
These ingredients are straightforward and easy to find, making this chicken recipe for dinner perfect for beginners! The chicken breasts are the star of the show, while the broccoli adds a lovely crunch and color to your plate. Remember, using fresh ingredients will always enhance the flavor, so if you can, opt for fresh broccoli instead of frozen. And don’t worry about the rice; you can use any cooked rice you have on hand, whether it’s white, brown, or even a blend. Happy cooking!
How to Prepare Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 375°F (190°C). This step is super important because it ensures your chicken cooks evenly and comes out juicy! While the oven is warming up, take a moment to tidy your workspace. A clean area makes cooking so much more enjoyable, don’t you think?
Mix the Seasoning
Now, grab a bowl and let’s whip up a delicious seasoning mix! Combine the olive oil, fine sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. I love using fresh spices because they really elevate the flavor! Mix everything together until it’s well combined, and you’ll be ready to coat your chicken in no time.
Coat the Chicken
Take your two chicken breasts and gently place them in the bowl with the seasoning. Now, here’s the fun part: use your hands (or a brush) to evenly coat the chicken with your delicious mixture. Make sure every inch is covered – this is where the flavor comes from! Trust me, you’ll want that seasoning all over for maximum tastiness.
Bake the Chicken and Broccoli
Next, take a baking sheet and lay down your seasoned chicken breasts. Now, don’t forget about the broccoli! Scatter those lovely florets around the chicken. It only takes 25-30 minutes in the oven, and you’ll be amazed at how beautifully everything cooks together. The smell will be heavenly!
Check for Doneness
To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, grab a meat thermometer and check that it reaches 165°F (75°C). This is a crucial step because no one wants undercooked chicken! If it’s not there yet, just pop it back in the oven for a few more minutes. You’ve got this!
Serve and Enjoy
Once your chicken is ready, serve it up alongside that fluffy cooked rice. For a little extra flair, arrange the broccoli around the chicken for a beautiful presentation. I like to sprinkle some extra paprika on top for color, too. Enjoy your delicious homemade dinner – you’ve earned it!
Tips for Success
Here are some handy tips to help you nail this chicken recipe for dinner! First off, make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet. If the chicken and broccoli are too close together, they won’t roast properly and might end up steaming instead. Yikes! Also, don’t skip the chilling time after mixing the seasoning. Letting the chicken sit for about 15 minutes helps those flavors really sink in. If you’re using frozen broccoli, remember to thaw it beforehand to avoid excess moisture. And lastly, if you find the chicken isn’t browning as much as you’d like, you can broil it for a minute or two at the end – just keep a close eye to prevent burning. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values for this delicious chicken recipe for dinner. Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, with 10 grams of fat and 30 grams of protein—perfect for a filling meal! You’ll also find about 40 grams of carbohydrates and 3 grams of fiber, making it a balanced option. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but this should give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying. Enjoy your healthy dinner!
FAQ Section
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and offer a richer flavor due to their higher fat content. Just keep in mind that they may take a bit longer to cook—about 30-35 minutes should do the trick. You’ll want to ensure they also reach that safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfect results!
How can I make this dish healthier?
If you’re looking to lighten things up a bit, you can easily use less olive oil or even skip it altogether. Instead of white rice, try substituting with quinoa or brown rice for added fiber and nutrients. You could also add in more veggies, like spinach or kale, to boost the health factor even further!
What other vegetables can I add?
There are so many delicious options! You can throw in bell peppers, zucchini, or even asparagus for a colorful and nutritious mix. Just remember to cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure they cook at the same rate as your chicken and broccoli. Get creative and use whatever you have on hand!
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! You can marinate the chicken in the seasoning mix a few hours in advance or even the night before. It allows those flavors to really penetrate the meat! When you’re ready to cook, just pop it in the oven. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently in the oven or microwave, and you’re all set for another tasty meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Healthy ingredients that keep you feeling great.
- A delightful mix of flavors with the seasoning and fresh veggies.
- One-pan meal for minimal clean-up—yes, please!
- Versatile; you can easily swap in your favorite vegetables.
- Great for meal prep—delicious leftovers for lunch!
- Makes a beautiful presentation that will impress your family.
For more chicken ideas, check out our easy chicken and broccoli recipe or explore quick chicken dinner ideas for more inspiration!
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Chicken Recipes for Dinner: 5 Simple Steps to Success!
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A simple and delicious chicken recipe for dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cooked rice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Coat the chicken breasts with the mixture.
- Place the chicken on a baking sheet.
- Add broccoli florets around the chicken.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve the chicken with cooked rice.
Notes
- Check the chicken with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: chicken recipes for dinner
