If you’re on the hunt for simple dinner ideas chicken, you’ve landed in the right place! This recipe is all about quick, delicious meals that are perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want something easy to whip up. I love how straightforward this dish is—it’s a great starting point for beginner cooks. Plus, you’ll have a flavorful dinner on the table in under 40 minutes, which is a total win! Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be excited to experiment with all sorts of variations and flavors. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this simple chicken dinner a breeze! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless for easy cooking)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (this helps keep the chicken moist and adds flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for that delicious savory taste)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (it gives the chicken a lovely color and mild spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy—seasoning is everything!)
- 1 cup broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, they add a nice crunch and color)
- 1 cup cooked rice (for a hearty base to serve the chicken on)
Make sure to have everything measured out and ready to go—it makes the cooking process so much smoother!
How to Prepare Instructions
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that the chicken starts cooking evenly right from the get-go. If you skip this part, the chicken may end up undercooked on the inside and dry on the outside. So, let that oven heat up while you prep the rest—it only takes a few minutes!
Prepare the Chicken
Next, grab those chicken breasts and give them a good rub with the olive oil. This isn’t just for flavor; it helps keep the chicken moist while it bakes. Sprinkle the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper all over both sides of the chicken, making sure to coat it evenly. I like to use my hands for this—it’s messy, but it gets the job done! Just make sure to wash your hands afterward.
Arrange for Baking
Now it’s time to get everything into the baking dish. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the center, then scatter the broccoli florets around them. This not only adds color but also allows the broccoli to soak up some of that delicious chicken flavor as it cooks. Make sure there’s a little space between the chicken and broccoli for air to circulate—this helps everything cook evenly!
Baking Time
Pop the dish in the oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is no longer pink in the center and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you have a meat thermometer, now’s the time to use it! Trust me, it’s a game changer when it comes to cooking chicken perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
Once it’s out of the oven, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it over a bed of cooked rice, and don’t forget to add those roasted broccoli florets on the side! If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of soy sauce, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, or even a squeeze of lemon can take this dish to the next level. Enjoy your simple, delicious dinner!
Nutritional Information
Before you dig in, here’s a quick look at the nutritional information for this simple chicken dinner! Keep in mind that the values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so this is just an estimate:
- Calories: approximately 350
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Sugar: 2g
- Fiber: 3g
This dish is not only tasty but also quite nutritious, making it a great choice for a healthy dinner. Enjoy your meal, knowing you’re fueling your body with good stuff!
Tips for Success
To really make this simple chicken dinner shine, here are some of my best tips! First, consider marinating the chicken in olive oil, garlic powder, and paprika for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This boosts the flavor even more! If you don’t have broccoli on hand, feel free to swap in other veggies like bell peppers or green beans—just adjust the cooking time if needed. And remember, don’t rush the baking! Always check the internal temperature for doneness, as undercooked chicken can be a real bummer. With these tips, you’ll nail this dish every time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly simple and perfect for beginner cooks.
- You can have a flavorful, healthy dinner ready in just 40 minutes.
- The recipe uses easily accessible ingredients you probably already have.
- Baking the chicken with broccoli adds a delicious touch without extra pans to clean!
- You can customize it with your favorite veggies or seasonings.
Trust me, once you try this chicken dinner, it’ll become a go-to in your weekly rotation!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge before cooking for even results. If they’re still a bit frozen, increase the baking time slightly.
What can I substitute for broccoli?
You can totally swap it out for your favorite veggies! Try asparagus, zucchini, or even colorful bell peppers. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as some veggies may cook faster.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have one, simply cut into the chicken; it should be white all the way through with no pink.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can season the chicken and chop the veggies earlier in the day, then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. It makes dinner even quicker!
What side dishes go well with this chicken?
Besides rice, you can serve it with a fresh salad, quinoa, or even mashed potatoes for a heartier meal. The options are endless!
Simple Dinner Ideas Chicken: 5 Steps to Flavorful Success
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A simple and delicious chicken dinner recipe perfect for beginners.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cooked rice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil.
- Sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper on both sides of the chicken.
- Place the chicken in a baking dish.
- Add broccoli florets around the chicken.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve the chicken over cooked rice.
Notes
- Make sure the chicken is fully cooked; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- You can substitute broccoli with your favorite vegetables.
- Marinate the chicken for 30 minutes for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: simple dinner ideas chicken
