Classic Sunday Dinner Ideas

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Explore delightful and comforting recipes perfect for a classic Sunday dinner with family and friends.

Freya Cooper

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-01-02T01:10:13.684Z

Sunday dinners are a cherished tradition in many households. They bring families together to enjoy good food and great company. Whether you're preparing a cozy meal for your loved ones or hosting a dinner party, these classic Sunday dinner ideas will inspire you to create a memorable feast.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Warm and inviting flavors that remind you of home
  • Perfectly cooked dishes that impress family and friends
  • Variety of options to suit every taste and preference

A Classic Dish for Family Gatherings

Sunday dinners are a time-honored tradition that brings families together. The comforting aroma of a home-cooked meal fills the air, creating a warm atmosphere that encourages conversation and connection. This classic chicken and vegetable dish is an ideal centerpiece for your Sunday gathering, inviting everyone to gather around the table and share stories while enjoying a hearty meal.

The heart of this recipe lies in its simplicity and robust flavors. Using bone-in chicken thighs not only enhances the taste but also keeps the meat juicy and tender. The combination of fresh vegetables and savory broth creates a dish that is not only delicious but also nourishing, making it perfect for a family that values health and flavor.

Easy Preparation for Busy Cooks

One of the best features of this recipe is its straightforward preparation. With just a few simple steps, you can create a meal that looks and tastes like it requires hours of effort. Searing the chicken in a skillet adds depth to the flavor profile, while the oven baking ensures everything cooks evenly and perfectly.

This dish is also adaptable for busy weeknights or special occasions. You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, allowing you to simply pop the skillet in the oven when you're ready to eat. It’s a great way to streamline your cooking process while still serving a dish that feels special and indulgent.

Flavorful Variations to Try

While this recipe is delightful as is, feel free to experiment with different vegetables or herbs to suit your taste. For instance, adding bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms can introduce new flavors and textures. Fresh rosemary or parsley can also be a wonderful addition, elevating the dish further and bringing a fresh, aromatic quality that complements the chicken beautifully.

If you're looking to spice things up, consider marinating the chicken thighs in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and your choice of seasonings before searing. This will infuse the meat with extra flavor and create a vibrant dish that will impress your guests.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients you need for this classic Sunday dinner.

Main Ingredients

  • 4 bone-in chicken thighs
  • 2 cups of baby carrots
  • 1 lb of baby potatoes, halved
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 cups of chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious classic Sunday dinner.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Sear the Chicken

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then sear them in the skillet until golden brown on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.

Add Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, baby carrots, and halved baby potatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine.

Pour in Broth

Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and vegetables. Sprinkle dried thyme on top.

Bake

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the vegetables are tender.

Once cooked, let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

To make your Sunday dinner even more special, consider serving this chicken and vegetable dish with a side of warm crusty bread. This allows everyone to soak up the delicious broth and adds a comforting touch to the meal. A simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette can also provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the main dish.

For dessert, something light like a fruit tart or a classic apple pie can round off the meal perfectly. These options will leave your family satisfied without feeling overly stuffed, making for a delightful end to your Sunday dinner.

Leftovers and Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, you're in for a treat! This dish reheats beautifully, making it a perfect option for meal prep. Simply store any remaining chicken and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to keep the dish moist and flavorful.

You can also freeze portions for later use. Just ensure the dish is cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. This way, you can enjoy a hearty home-cooked meal on a busy night without any extra effort.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but adjust the cooking time accordingly as it may cook faster.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or crusty bread.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Classic Sunday Dinner Ideas

Explore delightful and comforting recipes perfect for a classic Sunday dinner with family and friends.

Prep Time30 minutes
Cooking Duration90 minutes
Overall Time120 minutes

Created by: Freya Cooper

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Main Ingredients

  1. 4 bone-in chicken thighs
  2. 2 cups of baby carrots
  3. 1 lb of baby potatoes, halved
  4. 1 onion, chopped
  5. 4 cloves of garlic, minced
  6. 2 cups of chicken broth
  7. 1 tablespoon olive oil
  8. 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  9. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 02

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then sear them in the skillet until golden brown on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.

Step 03

Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, baby carrots, and halved baby potatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine.

Step 04

Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and vegetables. Sprinkle dried thyme on top.

Step 05

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the vegetables are tender.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 650 kcal
  • Total Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 150mg
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Dietary Fiber: 6g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 45g