HERBED CHICKEN WHIMSY

A chicken dish so herby, it could have been plucked from the pages of a botanist's diary. Served with seasonal veg that had a garden upbringing.

Herbed Chicken Whimsy Recipe

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour & 30 minutes

Serves: 4

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, finely chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Seasonal vegetables (e.g., carrots, zucchini, bell
    peppers), sliced for roasting
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Instructions:

1. Preparation

> Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

> Rinse the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels.

> In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, rosemary, thyme, oregano, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.

2. Marinating the Chicken

> Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag.

> Pour the herb marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.

> Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or for optimal flavor, leave it overnight.

3. Roasting the Vegetables

> Toss the sliced seasonal vegetables with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper.

> Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet.

> Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized. Stir halfway through cooking.

4. Cooking the Chicken

> Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on a lightly oiled baking dish.

> Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and no longer pink in the center. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.

5. Finishing Touches

> Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices and flavors.

> Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the roasted vegetables for an extra layer of sweetness and tang.

6. Serving

> Arrange the herbed chicken slices on a platter, surrounded by the roasted seasonal vegetables.

> Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve immediately.