This Chicken Baked with Asparagus is a tasty dish that combines tender chicken and fresh, crisp asparagus. It’s an easy one-pan meal that looks and smells amazing!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a meal that cooks itself while you relax? I always enjoy a little extra asparagus on the side—it’s so good and good for you too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: The star of this dish! I recommend skinless, boneless chicken breasts for tender bites. If you need a substitute, thinly sliced turkey breast works nicely too.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus adds crunch and color. If it’s out of season or unavailable, try green beans or broccoli for a similar texture and flavor.
Olive Oil: A key fat that brings flavors together. You can swap it for avocado oil or melted butter if you prefer. They both work well and add a nice touch.
Spices: The blend of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme creates great flavor. If lacking any, use Italian seasoning in place of thyme, or toss in a pinch of chili powder for a kick!
Lemon: Fresh lemon slices brighten up the dish. Lime works as a tasty alternative, or you can use a splash of vinegar if you don’t have citrus on hand.
How Do I Bake Chicken and Asparagus Together Successfully?
Baking chicken and asparagus at the same time may seem tricky, but it’s quite simple! Start by ensuring the chicken is cut into small pieces for even cooking.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for an even bake.
- Coat the chicken in olive oil and spices; this helps it stay juicy.
- Keep asparagus on one side of the pan to ensure it doesn’t get overcooked. A quick drizzle of olive oil will keep them tender.
- Use lemon slices on both chicken and asparagus for extra flavor as they cook.
- Check for doneness: chicken should hit 165°F (74°C). If needed, remove the veggies sooner if they’re done first!
Letting it rest before serving makes it easier to plate and enhances flavor. Trust me, you’ll love the outcomes!
How to Make Chicken Baked with Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Asparagus:
- 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
- A drizzle of olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you will spend about 30-35 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your chicken and asparagus cook evenly. While the oven is warming up, take a moment to lightly grease a baking sheet or cover it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the bite-sized chicken pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything well with your hands or a spoon until the chicken is fully coated with all the delicious spices.
3. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Spread your seasoned chicken pieces in an even layer on one side of the baking sheet. This helps them cook nicely without crowding. Now, take the trimmed asparagus and place it on the other side of the sheet.
4. Season the Asparagus:
Drizzle a little olive oil over the asparagus and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss the asparagus gently with your hands to ensure they’re coated in the oil and seasoning, just like you did with the chicken!
5. Add Lemon Slices:
Now, for some extra flavor, place the lemon slices on top of both the chicken and asparagus. This will infuse your dish with a lovely citrus aroma as it bakes.
6. Bake and Enjoy:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the asparagus is nice and tender. Once it’s ready, take it out and let it rest for a few minutes.
7. Serve it Up:
Before serving, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor. Now, grab your plate and enjoy your yummy Chicken Baked with Asparagus!
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Asparagus?
Absolutely! You can substitute asparagus with other vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly based on the vegetables you choose, as some may cook faster or slower than asparagus.
What Can I Use Instead of Garlic Powder?
If you don’t have garlic powder on hand, you can use fresh garlic instead. Mince 2-3 cloves of garlic and add them to the chicken mixture for a more robust flavor. You can also use garlic salt, but remember to reduce the amount of regular salt used in the recipe.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or you can use the microwave, though the oven will help keep the chicken crispy.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Ahead of Time?
Yes! Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the fridge, will enhance the flavor. Just keep the asparagus separate until you’re ready to bake to ensure they remain crisp and fresh!
