Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner recipe? Look no further! This honey-glazed chicken with roasted carrots is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and cleanup, yet delivers a burst of deliciousness that will impress the whole family. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, combining the sweetness of honey with savory chicken and tender roasted carrots for a truly satisfying meal. It's a simple recipe perfect for beginners, yet delicious enough for experienced cooks. This easy recipe is also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for your family. Get ready to enjoy a quick dinner idea that's both impressive and unbelievably tasty!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Carrots
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and chop the carrots into roughly 1-inch pieces. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking.
Step 2: Make the Honey Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, olive oil, ginger, garlic powder, and black pepper. This simple glaze is the key to the dish's amazing flavor.
Step 3: Combine and Roast
In a large bowl, toss the chicken and carrots with the honey glaze, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Spread the mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the carrots are tender. You can check the chicken's internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately. This dish is fantastic on its own or served with rice or quinoa.
Cooking Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Ensure the chicken and carrots are in a single layer for even cooking and browning.
- Adjust cooking time: Depending on the size of your chicken pieces and your oven, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
- For crispier carrots: Toss the carrots with a little extra olive oil before adding them to the baking sheet.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the honey glaze for a spicy twist.
- Citrus zest: Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the glaze for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Different vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 30g
- Fat: Approximately 10g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20g
This honey-glazed chicken with roasted carrots is a simple, healthy, and delicious meal that's perfect for any night of the week. It's a great example of how easy it is to create flavorful and nutritious food recipes at home. Enjoy!