This baked chicken and asparagus dish is a simple meal that’s packed with flavor! The chicken comes out juicy while the asparagus gets tender and tasty. Perfect for a quick dinner!
I love how easy it is to make—just season, bake, and enjoy! Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in those veggies without a fuss. What’s not to love? 🐔🥦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep the dish lean and quick to cook. You could also use thighs for a juicier option, or even tofu for a plant-based meal.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is key for that crunchy texture. If it’s out of season, feel free to swap in broccoli or green beans for a similar nutrient boost.
Lemons: Fresh lemons add brightness to the dish. In a pinch, you could use lime or even a splash of vinegar if citrus isn’t available.
Olive Oil: This is perfect for both flavor and cooking. If you want, canola or avocado oil works too for higher smoke points or a different taste.
Spices: The combination of garlic powder, thyme, oregano, and paprika gives depth to the chicken. You could mix and match with your favorite herbs if needed; rosemary or parsley could work well too!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting your chicken just right is crucial for a tasty meal! Here are some tips to help:
- Preheat your oven to the correct temperature; a hot oven helps the chicken cook evenly.
- Check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest after baking. This helps keep the juices in, making it more tender.
- If broiling, keep a close eye. It can go from golden to burnt quickly!
How to Make Baked Chicken and Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 2 lemons, sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
For the Seasoning:
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious baked chicken and asparagus dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 25 minutes to cook. Total, you can expect this meal to come together in about 35 minutes, making it perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely roasted flavor. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup later—it’ll make your life a bit easier!
2. Prepare the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This spice blend will add loads of flavor to your chicken!
3. Season the Chicken:
Next, place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil evenly over the chicken. Then, rub the spice mixture onto both sides of each chicken breast to make sure they are well-coated with yummy flavors.
4. Add the Asparagus:
Now it’s time for the asparagus! Arrange the trimmed asparagus on either side of the chicken breasts, keeping them in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
5. Drizzle with Oil and Season:
Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the asparagus, then sprinkle a little salt and pepper on top for seasoning.
6. Add Lemon for Flavor:
Take the lemon slices and arrange them around and under the chicken breasts. This will infuse the dish with a fresh, zesty flavor and help keep the chicken moist as it bakes.
7. Bake & Check Temp:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and let everything bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken breasts are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Always check to be safe!
8. Optional Broiling:
If you like a little extra color on your chicken, switch your oven to broil during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just keep a close eye on it to avoid burning!
9. Let it Rest & Serve:
Once out of the oven, let your baked chicken and asparagus rest for about 5 minutes. This helps lock in the juices, making for more tender chicken. Serve the chicken with the roasted asparagus and lemon slices on the side, and enjoy your delicious and healthy meal!
Can I Use Different Vegetables Instead of Asparagus?
Absolutely! If asparagus isn’t your favorite or isn’t available, you can swap it for broccoli, green beans, or even bell peppers. Just make sure to adjust cooking times if you’re using something that cooks faster or slower!
How Do I Store Leftover Baked Chicken and Asparagus?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or oven. If using the microwave, cover the dish to retain moisture!
Can I Marinate the Chicken in Advance?
Yes, marinating the chicken is a great idea! You can marinate it in the olive oil and spice mixture for up to 24 hours in the fridge for even more flavor. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before baking.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This baked chicken and asparagus pairs nicely with a side of rice, quinoa, or a simple mixed salad. For a heartier meal, you could also serve it with roasted potatoes or garlic bread.
