Looking for a quick yet satisfying dinner idea? This One Pan Garlic Herb Chicken and Asparagus is a wonderful blend of savory flavors and vibrant colors, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. After multiple test runs, I can confidently say the buttery, herb-infused dish brings warmth to any table. Plus, the easy cleanup makes it a go-to for busy days. For another great chicken recipe, check out my Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies.
About One Pan Garlic Herb Chicken and Asparagus
This dish is not just about convenience, it’s about flavor. One Pan Garlic Herb Chicken and Asparagus became a family favorite after I whipped it up for dinner last month. The combination of tender chicken thighs with crisp asparagus creates a satisfying texture and a beautiful presentation. It’s perfect for a budget-friendly, quick meal that’s ready in just 25 minutes, making it a staple for any season.
- Quick prep: Ideal for busy weeknights.
- Budget-friendly: Uses simple, accessible ingredients.
- Family favorite: Combines cozy, comforting flavors.
- Ingredient insight: Asparagus is packed with vitamins and adds a vibrant crunch to the dish.
Key Ingredients & Their Roles
- Chicken Thighs: Juicy and flavorful; you can also substitute with boneless skinless breasts for less fat.
- Asparagus: Provides crunch; be sure to trim the ends for tenderness.
- Butter: Adds richness; can use olive oil for a lighter option.
- Garlic: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth; fresh garlic is preferred.
How to Make One Pan Garlic Herb Chicken and Asparagus
- Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and herbs, cooking until fragrant—about 1 minute.
- Reduce the heat to medium, then add the chicken to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway, until nicely browned.
- Push the chicken to the edges of the pan. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and asparagus to the center. Season asparagus with salt and pepper, cooking for about 4-6 minutes until vibrant and tender.
- Serve immediately, garnished with freshly cracked black pepper and fresh herbs if desired.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
- For better browning, don’t overcrowd the pan—this helps achieve a nice sear on the chicken.
- A common mistake is under-seasoning; always taste throughout the cooking process to ensure balanced flavors.
- Asparagus can be swapped with green beans or bell peppers based on what’s in season.
- Scaling this recipe is easy: simply double the ingredients for a larger crowd, extending cooking time slightly as needed.
Storage & Make-Ahead Guide
Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. This dish can also be frozen for about 2 months. To reheat, use the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat. I discovered that the flavors deepen even more after a day in the fridge!
Serving Suggestions
This One Pan Garlic Herb Chicken and Asparagus pairs beautifully with fluffy rice or a fresh salad. Drizzle with a bit of lemon juice to brighten it up! For more side dishes, check out my Caramel Apple Pecan Cobbler and Baked Apples with Feta and Honey.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to cook? Total time is about 25 minutes, including prep.
- Can I use chicken breasts instead? Yes, but they should be pounded to an even thickness for even cooking.
- What herbs can I substitute? Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme also work beautifully!
- Is this dish freezer-friendly? Yes, it freezes well and reheats nicely!
- What should I serve with this? Fluffy rice or a light salad complement this dish perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This One Pan Garlic Herb Chicken and Asparagus has become a personal favorite not just for its taste, but for the memories forged around the table. I encourage you to try it out and share your experiences! Cooking is about joyful exploration, and I can’t wait for you to enjoy this as much as I do.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Delicious Garlic Butter Chicken with Broccoli – delicious pairing of flavors with garlic and herbs complementing chicken.
- Easy Crockpot Chicken Gravy – a comforting technique that elevates the chicken experience.
- Chicken Mango Avocado Salad – a vibrant, fresh pairing for a light meal option.
One Pan Garlic Herb Chicken and Asparagus
Ingredients
- 3 chicken thighs or boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to 1/2 inch thickness
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound asparagus ends trimmed
- 3 tablespoons butter divided
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (see note)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Season chicken with salt and pepper on both sides. Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large pan/skillet over medium-high heat. Stir in garlic and herbs and cook another minute or so until the garlic is fragrant.
- Reduce heat to medium, add chicken to pan, and cook for 5-7 minutes, then flip and cook another 5-7 minutes. (Chicken should be nearly, but not completely cooked through by this point)
- Scoot the chicken over the sides and add remaining 1 tablespoon butter to the empty portion of the pan. Once the butter is melted, add asparagus. Season asparagus with salt and pepper, to taste. Cook, rotating throughout, for 4-6 minutes until tender and chicken is completely cooked through.
- Serve immediately garnished with freshly cracked black pepper and fresh herbs if desired.