Garlic Herb Chicken with Roasted Sweet Potatoes
This wholesome dish features juicy, golden-browned chicken breasts or thighs seasoned with a blend of garlic, fresh herbs, and lemon. It’s paired with roasted sweet potatoes that are caramelized and tender, offering a sweet contrast to the savory chicken. A delicious and nutritious one-pan meal that’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and meal-prep friendly.
Prep & Cook Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: 45–50 minutes
Ingredients
For the Garlic Herb Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
2 tbsp olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh)
1 tsp dried rosemary (or 1 tbsp fresh)
1 tsp dried oregano
Zest & juice of ½ lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: ½ tsp paprika or chili flakes for heat
For the Roasted Sweet Potatoes:
2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed (~1-inch)
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp ground cumin (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey (for a touch of sweetness)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Sweet Potatoes and asparagus
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss sweet potato and asparagus cubes with olive oil, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add maple syrup if using.
3. Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 30–35 minutes, tossing halfway, until golden and tender.
Step 2: Season & Sear the Chicken
1. In a bowl, combine garlic, herbs, lemon juice/zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Coat chicken evenly in the mixture. Let marinate for 10–15 minutes (optional for more flavor).
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil.
4. Sear chicken for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown (but not cooked through).
Step 3: Finish in Oven
1. Transfer seared chicken to the same tray as the sweet potatoes (or use a second tray).
2. Roast everything for 10–12 more minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
3. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Tips & Notes
For extra juicy chicken, use thighs or marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours.
Add Brussels sprouts, carrots, or red onions and asparagus to the pan for a veggie boost.
Use a cast iron skillet to sear and bake in one pan.
For more sauce, de glaze the skillet with chicken broth or white wine and drizzled over chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side salad or steamed green beans.
Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or yogurt herb sauce on top.
Great with brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice.
Nutrition Facts
Approximate, using chicken breast and olive oil
Calories: 410
Protein: 36g
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 8g (from sweet potatoes)
Sodium: ~350mg
Using chicken thighs adds ~60 extra calories and more fat.