Sheet Pan Pesto Chicken With Roasted Cauliflower and Carrots
Try this delicious sheet pan pesto chicken with roasted cauliflower and carrots for a healthy and easy one-pan dinner that the whole family will love!
Equipment
- Sheet Pan (For roasting the chicken and vegetables together.)
- Mixing Bowl (For combining the pesto with chicken.)
- Measuring Spoons/Cups (For measuring ingredients like pesto, olive oil, and spices.)
- Knife (For chopping vegetables.)
- Cutting Board (For preparing the ingredients.)
- Oven (For roasting the dish.)
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- ½ cup basil pesto
- 1 head cauliflower (medium, cut into florets)
- 3 carrots (medium, peeled and sliced into rounds)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- **basil** (fresh leaves, for garnish - optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven to 425°FBefore you plunge into preparing your Sheet Pan Pesto Chicken, make sure to preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Getting that oven temperature just right is essential for achieving perfectly roasted chicken and veggies. You want those chicken thighs to crisp up beautifully while the cauliflower and carrots become tender and flavorful.So, how do you do it? Simply turn the oven dial or press the button, and let it work its magic. This step might seem trivial, but trust me, it'll make all the difference in your dish.While the oven heats up, you can line your baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a quick spray with cooking oil. This little cooking tip makes cleanup a breeze, and we can all appreciate that, right?As you wait for the oven to reach the desired temperature, take a moment to gather your ingredients and dream about the delicious meal that's about to come together. It's all part of the fun!
- Coat Chicken With Pesto MixtureWith your oven preheated and ready to go, it's time to coat the chicken thighs with the flavorful pesto mixture. Grab that bowl of basil pesto, and let's jump in! You'll want to make sure each thigh is generously coated for maximum flavor. Don't hold back; this is where the magic happens. The vibrant green sauce won't only add taste but also provide a beautiful color to your chicken.Now, while you're working with the chicken, consider trying out different pesto variations. Have you ever thought about using sun-dried tomato or spinach pesto? They can add a delightful twist to your dish!As you mix the chicken in the pesto, sprinkle in some salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. These spices will elevate the marination process, making certain every bite is packed with flavor.Let the chicken marinate for about 5 minutes. This brief moment is essential for letting those flavors meld together, creating a delicious harmony. Plus, it gives you a moment to admire your handiwork before you get to the next steps.Ready to move on? Your chicken is about to shine!
- Toss Vegetables With Olive OilNow it's time to bring those vibrant vegetables to life! Grab your mixing bowl and toss the cauliflower florets and carrot rounds with olive oil. You might be wondering, why olive oil? Well, it's packed with healthy fats and antioxidants, making it a fantastic choice for both flavor and nutrition.Plus, it helps those veggies brown beautifully in the oven!As you drizzle in the olive oil, sprinkle on some salt and pepper. This is your chance for some vegetable seasoning magic! Don't be shy—give those veggies a good mix. You want every piece to be glistening and coated, ensuring they roast evenly and soak up all that delicious flavor.Imagine the smell as they cook, turning tender and caramelized. It's like a warm hug for your kitchen! By taking this simple step, you're elevating your dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
- Arrange Chicken and VegetablesIt's time to set up your sheet pan for baking! You've already tossed your vegetables with olive oil, so let's get to the fun part: arranging everything perfectly.Start by spreading those colorful cauliflower florets and sweet carrot rounds on one side of the baking sheet. This is where those ideal vegetable combinations come into play. By placing them together, you'll allow their flavors to mingle as they roast.Now, it's time for the chicken thighs! Gently lay them skin-side up on the other side of the pan, creating a nice balance. This arrangement technique not only helps the chicken crisp up beautifully but also guarantees the veggies cook to tender perfection.Make sure to leave a little space between the chicken and vegetables; they need their room to breathe!As you look at your sheet pan, take a moment to appreciate the vibrant colors and the aromas already wafting up. Doesn't it just make you excited for what's to come?You're almost there! Just think about how this simple setup will lead to a delicious, wholesome meal that everyone will love.
- Bake for 25 MinutesOnce everything's arranged on the sheet pan, you can slide it into the preheated oven and let the magic happen. As you close that oven door, you're about to witness the beauty of baking techniques at work. The heat envelops the chicken and veggies, transforming them into a symphony of flavors. Isn't it amazing how just 25 minutes can make such a difference?With the advantages of a sheet pan, you're not just saving time—you're also minimizing cleanup. Everything cooks together, allowing the chicken's savory juices to mingle with the sweetness of the roasted carrots and the nuttiness of the cauliflower. Who knew healthy eating could be this effortless?While you wait, take a moment to breathe in the aroma wafting from the oven. It's like a warm hug, promising a delightful meal. Just imagine how the chicken skin will crisp up, while the veggies caramelize beautifully. Can you hear your family's excitement building?Trust the process, and don't rush it. After 25 minutes, you'll have a dish that's not only nourishing but also irresistibly delicious. Just wait—your taste buds are about to celebrate!
- Check for DonenessAfter 25-30 minutes of baking, it's essential to check for doneness to guarantee your chicken and vegetables are perfectly cooked. You don't want to serve undercooked chicken or mushy veggies, right?The best way to assess doneness is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken thigh, ensuring it hits that magic internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). That's your golden number! If it's not there yet, pop it back in the oven for a few more minutes.While you're at it, don't forget to check your vegetables. They should be tender and slightly caramelized, with a lovely golden hue.A quick taste test can be a fun way to gauge their doneness, too. Just be careful—they might be hot!
Nutrition
Calories: 488kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 23gFat: 38gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 13gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 113mgSodium: 452mgPotassium: 828mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 8602IUVitamin C: 72mgCalcium: 107mgIron: 2mg