Are you tired of complicated recipes and endless cleanup? Craving a delicious, healthy meal that’s ready in under an hour? Then look no further! This one-pan lemon herb roasted chicken and veggies recipe is your answer. It's a simple, flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. This recipe is all about easy cleanup and maximum flavor, making it one of the best recipes for busy individuals or families.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into 8 pieces or use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1 onion, cut into wedges
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the potatoes, carrots, and onion with 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. This ensures even cooking and delicious caramelization.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a separate bowl, combine the remaining olive oil, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken pieces, ensuring they are evenly coated. This step is crucial for a flavorful, juicy chicken.
Step 3: Assemble and Roast
Spread the vegetables in a single layer in a large roasting pan or baking sheet. Arrange the chicken pieces on top of the vegetables. Tuck the lemon slices between the chicken and vegetables. This adds a burst of fresh citrus flavor.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Roast for 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's perfectly cooked.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the roasting pan from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this simple yet delicious meal!
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Marinate the chicken in the herb mixture for at least 30 minutes before roasting.
- Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli florets, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side of rice or quinoa for a more substantial dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-30g
This one-pan lemon herb roasted chicken and veggies recipe is a perfect example of healthy meals made easy. It's a quick dinner idea that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying homemade cooking experience! It's one of those easy recipes that delivers big on taste without sacrificing time or effort. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for delicious dishes and best recipes for their everyday meals.