Grilled Chicken with Roasted Vegetables and Fresh Salad

Are you looking for a wholesome, flavorful meal that’s both easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests? My grilled chicken breast with roasted vegetables and a side salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply cooking for your family, you will love this easy recipe.

Grilled Chicken Breast

This recipe serves four and is complete in about one hour depending upon your roasted vegetables cooking time. Generally one hour to prepare and cook.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the chicken breasts with the herb and spice mixture.
4. Grill the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Roasted Vegetables

Ingredients

• 4 carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
• 2 zucchinis, sliced
• 2 bell peppers, sliced
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the carrots, zucchinis, and bell peppers on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through.

Side Salad

Ingredients

• Mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• Croutons
• Olive oil and balsamic vinegar (for dressing)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens and cherry tomatoes.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Toss the salad to combine, and top with croutons.

Assembly

1. Place the grilled chicken breast on a plate.
2. Add a portion of the roasted vegetables next to the chicken.
3. Serve the side salad on the same plate or in a separate bowl.

Variations and Substitutions

Chicken

• Marinades: For a different flavor profile, you can marinate the chicken in lemon juice and herbs, or a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and ginger.
• Cooking Methods: If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Vegetables

• Variety: Feel free to swap out the vegetables with whatever you have on hand. Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes are excellent alternatives.
• Seasoning: Experiment with different herbs and spices such as cumin, coriander, or Italian seasoning.

Salad

• Add-Ins: Enhance the salad with extras like avocado slices, red onions, cucumber, or nuts and seeds for added crunch and flavor.
• Dressings: Try different dressings like a lemon vinaigrette, ranch, or a creamy avocado dressing to switch things up.

Tips and Tricks

1. Prep Ahead: Save time by marinating the chicken and chopping the vegetables the night before. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
2. Uniform Cuts: Cut the vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure they cook evenly.
3. Rest the Chicken: Allow the grilled chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
4. Presentation: For a beautiful presentation, arrange the chicken and vegetables neatly on the plate and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil.

Serving Suggestions

This meal pairs wonderfully with a chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea. For a heartier meal, serve with a side of quinoa, couscous, or a warm crusty bread.

This recipe is a versatile, nutritious, and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, you can create a meal that’s sure to delight your guests and family alike. Enjoy experimenting with different variations and make this recipe your own!

One-Pot Cooking Rocks!