Are you tired of takeout and searching for quick dinner ideas? Do you crave delicious dishes but feel overwhelmed by complicated recipes? Then you've come to the right place! This blog post is dedicated to celebrating the heart of American home cooking – simple, satisfying, and undeniably delicious meals that won't leave you stranded in the kitchen for hours. We're focusing on easy recipes that anyone can master, whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner just starting your culinary journey. Get ready to rediscover the joy of homemade cooking with these healthy meals your whole family will love.
One-Pan Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken and Veggies
This one-pan wonder is the epitome of easy recipes. It's a healthy meal packed with flavor, minimal cleanup, and ready in under an hour. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 2 lemons, one thinly sliced, one juiced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, thyme, rosemary)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your chicken and vegetables cook evenly.
- Prepare the vegetables: Toss the potatoes, carrots, and red onion with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer in a large roasting pan.
- Season the chicken: Place the chicken thighs on top of the vegetables. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and season generously with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Tuck lemon slices under and around the chicken.
- Roast: Roast for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F) and the vegetables are tender. Basting halfway through ensures even browning and juicy chicken.
- Finish and serve: Squeeze the juice of the remaining lemon over the chicken and vegetables before serving.
Cooking Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before roasting.
- Don't overcrowd the pan. This ensures proper browning and even cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Garlic Lover's Delight: Add 4-6 cloves of minced garlic to the vegetables.
- Sheet Pan Variation: Use a large baking sheet instead of a roasting pan for easier cleanup.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This one-pan lemon herb roasted chicken and vegetables recipe offers a fantastic example of easy recipes perfect for a healthy and delicious weeknight meal. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying dish that showcases the best of American home cooking! Remember to adapt it to your liking and explore the endless possibilities of flavor combinations. Happy cooking!