Are you ready to embrace the cozy vibes of autumn? Then look no further! This recipe for Fall Baked Chicken is the perfect blend of comfort food and healthy eating. It's a delicious and easy recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal. This recipe is packed with autumnal flavors, making it an ideal addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 1 cup Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, prepare your vegetables. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, cube the butternut squash, and halve the Brussels sprouts. This simple prep work will make the cooking process much smoother.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for the dish.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, dried cranberries, pecans, chicken broth, maple syrup, sage, and thyme to the skillet. Season generously with salt and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the vegetables are evenly coated.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts on top of the vegetable mixture in the skillet. Pour any remaining liquid from the skillet over the chicken. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious and healthy fall meal!
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the skillet: Ensure there's enough space between the chicken breasts and vegetables for even cooking.
- Use an oven-safe skillet: This simplifies the cooking process and prevents the need for transferring the food to a baking dish.
- Adjust cooking time: Depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to incorporate other fall vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, or apples.
- Change the nuts: Substitute pecans or walnuts with other nuts like almonds or cashews.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with rosemary, parsley, or oregano for a unique flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a delicious and healthy meal, offering a good source of protein from the chicken and fiber from the vegetables. The exact nutritional content will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Always consult a nutritionist or use a nutrition calculator for precise values.
This Fall Baked Chicken recipe is a simple yet impressive dish perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Its delicious flavors and ease of preparation make it a must-try recipe for anyone looking for easy recipes, homemade cooking, and delicious dishes. Enjoy the delightful tastes of autumn with this hearty and satisfying meal!