Introduction
This Garlic Herb Chicken & Carrot Plate is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together tender, juicy chicken breasts seasoned with garlic and fresh herbs, paired with sweet roasted carrots. It’s a healthy, well-balanced meal that’s easy to prepare on a busy weeknight or serve for a wholesome lunch. The combination of garlic, herbs, and caramelized carrots makes this dish a comforting and satisfying choice.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of ½ lemon
For the Carrots:
- 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into sticks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for extra caramelization)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). - Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
Rub this mixture all over the chicken breasts. Let them marinate while you prep the carrots. - Prepare the Carrots:
Toss the carrot sticks with olive oil, salt, pepper, and honey (if using). Spread them on a baking sheet. - Cook the Chicken & Carrots:
Place the chicken on the same baking sheet or a separate one.
Roast both in the oven for 25–30 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through.
Carrots should be golden and slightly caramelized; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). - Serve:
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Plate with carrots and garnish with fresh parsley.
Description
This dish combines the richness of garlic and herbs with the natural sweetness of carrots. Roasting brings out the best in both, making the chicken juicy and infused with flavor, while the carrots become tender with crisp edges. It’s rustic, clean, and packed with goodness.
Tips
- Marinate Longer: Let the chicken marinate for up to 2 hours for even more flavor.
- Add a Pan Sauce: After roasting, deglaze the pan with a splash of chicken broth or white wine and reduce for a quick sauce.
- Use Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, substitute thighs — just adjust cook time slightly.
- Even Cooking: Pound chicken breasts to even thickness for uniform cooking.
Variations
- Add Potatoes: Toss in some baby potatoes with the carrots for a more filling meal.
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a touch of cayenne to the garlic herb rub.
- Vegan Version: Substitute chicken with tofu or roasted chickpeas and increase the herbs for extra flavor.
- Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the marinade for more brightness.
Correction
If your chicken turns out dry, it may be overcooked — always check doneness with a meat thermometer.
If carrots are too hard, cut them thinner or roast longer.
Enjoy
Serve this dish warm, maybe with a side of crusty bread or a light green salad. It’s comfort food made fresh, simple, and satisfying. Enjoy every bite!