Garlic Herb Chicken and Carrot Plate

Garlic Herb Chicken and Carrot Plate is one of those weeknight winners that feels fancy but comes together with almost no effort. I love how the garlic and herbs create this incredible aroma that fills the whole kitchen while everything roasts together in one pan.

I first made this recipe on a particularly hectic Tuesday when my kids had back-to-back activities and I needed something quick but didn’t want to sacrifice flavor. The combination of tender chicken breasts with sweet roasted carrots, all coated in that fragrant garlic and herb mixture, turned into an instant family favorite. It’s the kind of meal that makes you look like a kitchen pro without spending hours cooking. This simple garlic herb chicken recipe is perfect when you want healthy comfort food that actually tastes incredible, and the best part is watching those baby carrots caramelize alongside the juicy chicken.

What You’ll Need for This Garlic Herb Chicken Recipe

I always use fresh garlic cloves for this recipe because the flavor is so much better than the pre-minced kind, and a 9×13 inch baking dish works perfectly for this amount. Here’s everything you need to make this delicious one-pan dinner:

• 4 chicken breasts (about 6-8 oz each, ideally 3/4 to 1 inch thick for even cooking)
• 2 cups baby carrots (I prefer organic when possible)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (or 4 if you really love garlic like I do)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin for best flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)
• Salt and pepper to taste (I use about 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (cilantro works too if you prefer)

Pro tip: If your chicken breasts are different sizes, I recommend pounding them to an even thickness so they cook at the same rate. This prevents dry, overcooked chicken while other pieces are still underdone.

How I Make This Simple Garlic Herb Chicken

I prefer starting with room temperature chicken because it cooks more evenly. Let your chicken sit out for about 15-20 minutes before you begin.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line your 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper for easier cleanup if you want, though it’s not required.

Step 2: In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined and the garlic is evenly distributed throughout the oil. The mixture should smell incredibly fragrant.

Step 3: Place your chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Pour the garlic herb mixture over the top and use your hands or a pastry brush to coat each piece thoroughly, ensuring the mixture covers both the top and bottom of each breast. Don’t skip coating the undersides.

Step 4: Scatter the baby carrots in a single layer around the chicken pieces in the dish. Toss them gently in any remaining garlic herb oil at the bottom of the pan so they get coated too.

Step 5: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken reaches at least 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer. The chicken should have a golden-brown top with slightly darker edges, and the carrots should be fork-tender with caramelized tips.

Step 6: Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Perfect Pairings for Your Garlic Herb Chicken and Carrot Plate

This Garlic Herb Chicken and Carrot Plate pairs beautifully with light, complementary sides that don’t compete with the herbs.

Fluffy Rice or Quinoa: Both absorb the delicious pan juices and add a neutral base that balances the garlicky flavors while adding wholesome grains to your plate.

Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the chicken and adds refreshing crunch and brightness to every bite.

Roasted Potatoes: Baby potatoes tossed in olive oil and roasted alongside create a heartier meal perfect for cold evenings when you need extra comfort.

Crusty Bread: A warm baguette is perfect for soaking up every last drop of those incredible herb-infused juices from the bottom of the pan.

Steamed Broccoli: This adds another healthy vegetable and the mild flavor complements the savory garlic herb chicken without overwhelming your taste buds.

More Chicken Dinner Ideas You’ll Love

This Garlic Herb Chicken and Carrot Plate pairs wonderfully with other simple weeknight chicken recipes that bring big flavor without the fuss. For another quick one-pan option, try the Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Rich Garlic Sauce, which features a similar cooking method but with a crispy coating and creamy finish. The Sheet Pan Lemon Balsamic Chicken offers bright citrus notes that complement the herb flavors beautifully when you want to serve both for a dinner party.

When you’re craving comfort food with vegetables built right in, the Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies provides hands-off cooking with similar garlic herb flavors. For a heartier complete meal, serve this chicken alongside the Smothered Chicken and Rice for guests, or try the elegant Chicken in White Wine Sauce when you want to elevate weeknight dinner into something special.

Storing Your Leftover Garlic Herb Chicken

Store leftover Garlic Herb Chicken and Carrot Plate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I recommend separating the chicken and carrots if possible to maintain the best texture for each component.

To reheat, I prefer using the oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes until heated through. This keeps the chicken moist and prevents it from drying out like the microwave sometimes does. If you’re in a hurry, microwave in 30-second intervals with a damp paper towel over top to trap moisture.

Pro tip: This recipe freezes beautifully for up to one month. Let it cool completely, then freeze in portion-sized containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Your Garlic Herb Chicken Questions Answered

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