DinnerEasyFlare-FriendlyGluten-FreeDairy-Free

Simple Baked Chicken with Soft Carrots

Lean chicken breast with fork-tender carrots baked on one sheet pan. The base meal for active flares—35g protein, 3g fiber, and ingredients your gut already trusts.

Simple Baked Chicken with Soft Carrots
Total Time
45m
Servings
2
Calories
295
Fiber
3g
Protein
35g
Carbs
15g
Fat
10g
Best ForSafe for Crohn's & UC
Active FlareRecoveringRemissionStricturePost-Op (Late)J-Pouch

Watch Out For

black peppermild

May irritate sensitive stomachs or cause discomfort in some individuals

Tip: Completely optional - omit if spices bother you

Ingredients

  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

    400°F (200°C)Equipment: oven
  2. Toss the peeled carrot rounds with 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1/4 teaspoon salt until evenly coated.

    Equipment: bowl, baking sheet
  3. Spread the carrots in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet.

    Equipment: baking sheet
    Tip: Single layer ensures even roasting
  4. Roast for 15 minutes—this head start ensures they become fully tender.

    Tip: This head start ensures carrots become fully tender
  5. Meanwhile, pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels.

    Equipment: paper towels
    Tip: Dry surface = better browning
  6. Rub the chicken with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil until the surface glistens.

  7. Season both sides with the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt, thyme, rosemary, and pepper if using.

  8. When the carrots have roasted 15 minutes, remove the pan and push the carrots to the edges.

  9. Place the chicken breasts in the center of the pan, leaving space between them.

    Tip: Space between chicken pieces ensures even cooking
  10. Return to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.

    165°F (74°C)
    Tip: Juices should run clear when chicken is done
  11. Let the chicken rest on the pan for 5 minutes—this keeps it moist.

    Tip: Resting keeps the chicken moist and juicy
  12. Slice the chicken against the grain and serve with the soft carrots alongside.

    Tip: Slicing against the grain keeps the meat tender

Notes

Storage

Refrigerate chicken and carrots in separate airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat chicken gently in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes to prevent drying. Carrots reheat well in the microwave.

Even cooking

If your chicken breasts are thick (over 1 inch), pound them to 3/4-inch thickness for faster, more even cooking.

Extra-soft carrots

The carrots should be completely fork-tender. If they're still firm after the full baking time, leave them in the oven while the chicken rests—another 5-10 minutes won't hurt.

Turkey swap

Boneless turkey breast works just as well. Same lean protein, same IBD safety profile.

Add a starch

Pair with white rice, mashed potatoes (peeled), or plain pasta to make this a complete flare-safe plate. The extra calories may help during recovery.

Parchment shortcut

Line your pan with parchment paper before you start. Cleanup takes 30 seconds.

IBD Considerations

Diet Protocol Compliance

How this recipe fits common IBD dietary approaches