Are you tired of complicated recipes with endless dishes to clean? Get ready to fall in love with the most effortless and mouthwatering chicken dish that will transform your weeknight dinner from boring to extraordinary! This Skillet Chicken with Roasted Carrots is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that combines simplicity, flavor, and nutrition in one sizzling pan. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you'll create a restaurant-quality meal that will have your family asking for seconds before they've finished their first bite.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 cups baby carrots
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). This high temperature will help roast the carrots and create a nice golden color on the chicken.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure they brown well. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and paprika, pressing the spices into the meat.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the chicken breasts into the skillet.
- Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust forms. This will help seal in the juices and create a flavorful exterior.
- Add the baby carrots around the chicken in the skillet. Drizzle the carrots with a little additional olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the entire skillet to the preheated oven. Roast for 15-18 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the carrots are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. The bright green herbs will add a fresh flavor and visual appeal to the dish.
Tips
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden-brown exterior that locks in all the juicy goodness.
- Use an oven-safe skillet to minimize dish washing and maximize flavor development through both stovetop searing and oven roasting.
- Invest in a meat thermometer to precisely check the chicken's internal temperature. 165°F (74°C) is the sweet spot for perfectly cooked, safe-to-eat chicken.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and moist.
- Choose baby carrots of similar size to ensure even roasting, or cut larger carrots into uniform pieces.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with seasonings - try adding garlic powder, dried thyme, or smoked paprika for extra flavor complexity.
- For a complete meal, serve with a simple side of rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious pan juices.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 110mg
