Roasted Chicken and Vegetables: A Cozy Winter Dinner

As the days grow shorter and the air gets that distinct winter chill, there’s nothing quite like the comfort of a hearty, home-cooked meal. One of my absolute favorites to cozy up with is this Roasted Chicken and Vegetables recipe. Imagine juicy chicken thighs with crispy skin, nestled among caramelized vegetables, all infused with aromatic herbs. It’s the kind of dish that warms both your body and soul, and it’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Plus, it’s a hit with everyone in the family, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity and depth of flavor. The combination of tender, bone-in chicken thighs and a medley of perfectly roasted vegetables is a classic that never gets old. The secret lies in the herb-infused seasoning that not only coats the chicken and vegetables but also creates a rich, savory broth at the bottom of the dish. This broth can be spooned over the chicken just before serving, adding an extra layer of deliciousness.

Key Ingredients

• Baby Potatoes: These little gems roast beautifully, with their skins crisping up while the insides stay fluffy and tender. You can also use red potatoes, cut into cubes, for a more budget-friendly option.
• Carrots: Roasted carrots become wonderfully sweet and slightly caramelized, complementing the savory chicken perfectly.
• Red Onion: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the dish, becoming soft and almost jammy as it roasts.
• Garlic: Whole cloves of garlic roast alongside the vegetables, becoming soft and mellow – perfect for spreading on the chicken or a slice of crusty bread.
• Herbs: A mix of dried basil, thyme, and rosemary creates a fragrant, herbaceous flavor that permeates the entire dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ingredients:

• 24 oz. baby potatoes (or red potatoes, cubed)
• 2 large carrots
• 1 red onion
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 lbs.)

Directions:

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425ºF. This high temperature is key to getting that golden, crispy skin on the chicken and perfectly caramelized vegetables.

Prep the Vegetables:

• Wash and halve the baby potatoes. If you’re using larger potatoes, cut them into 1-inch cubes.
• Peel and slice the carrots into 1-inch pieces.
• Peel the red onion and cut it into wedges.
• Peel the garlic cloves, leaving them whole.

Seasoning:

• In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, dried basil, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.

this Recipe

Coat the Vegetables:

• Add the prepared vegetables to the bowl and drizzle half of the herb mixture over them.
• Toss the vegetables until they are fully coated in the oil and herbs, then transfer them to a 9×13-inch or larger casserole dish.

Prepare the Chicken:

• Place the chicken thighs in the same bowl and pour the remaining oil and herb mixture over them.
• Toss until the chicken is fully coated, then nestle the chicken thighs into the vegetables in the casserole dish, skin side up.

Roasting:

• Roast in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.
• After 40 minutes, remove the dish, stir the vegetables, and spoon some of the juices from the bottom over the chicken.
• Return the dish to the oven and roast for another 20 minutes, or until the chicken skin is golden and crispy, and the vegetables are caramelized.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is delicious on its own, but here are a few ways to make it even more special:

• Toppings: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice over the top before serving for a fresh burst of flavor.
• Sides: Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the juices, or a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Pairings: A glass of Chardonnay or a light red wine like Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of this dish.

Nutritional Information

For those mindful of their nutritional intake, here’s a quick breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 781 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Protein: 41g
• Fat: 52g
• Sodium: 794mg
• Fiber: 6g

FAQs

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs?

Yes, but keep in mind that you won’t get the same crispy skin or depth of flavor. You may also need to reduce the cooking time slightly.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Brussels sprouts, parsnips, or even sweet potatoes would be fantastic additions. Just make sure they’re cut to similar sizes so they cook evenly.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350ºF to maintain the crispiness of the chicken skin.

More Cozy Recipes to Try

If you loved this Roasted Chicken and Vegetables recipe, here are a few more delicious dishes to warm you up this winter:

• Beef Stroganoff: Easy One-Pot Recipe – A rich and creamy beef stroganoff that’s perfect for a comforting dinner.
• The Perfect Paella Recipe: A Spanish Feast for Any Occasion – Bring a taste of Spain to your table with this flavorful paella.
• Creamy Chicken Alfredo: The Ultimate Comfort Dish – Indulge in this creamy, cheesy pasta dish that’s perfect for cozy nights in.
• Quick and Easy Vegetable Stir-Fry Recipe – A vibrant and healthy stir-fry that’s ready in minutes, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Conclusion

I can’t wait for you to try this Roasted Chicken and Vegetables recipe! It’s a surefire way to bring warmth and comfort to your dinner table, and I know it’s going to become a staple in your home. Don’t forget to leave a comment below with your thoughts, any variations you tried, or just to say hi! And keep an eye out for more cozy recipes coming your way soon. Happy cooking!

Love this comforting meal? Be sure to save the recipe for those chilly winter nights when you need a cozy dinner to warm you up!

Enjoy making this savory Roasted Chicken and Vegetables? If you give it a try, don’t forget to leave a review and share your delicious photos on Pinterest. Happy cooking!

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