Are you tired of complicated weeknight dinners? Craving a healthy, delicious meal that's also incredibly easy to prepare? Then look no further! This one-pan lemon herb roasted chicken and veggies recipe from Barbara O'Neill's collection is a lifesaver. It's a complete meal, bursting with fresh flavors, and requires minimal cleanup – perfect for busy cooks who appreciate homemade cooking without the fuss. This recipe is a fantastic example of simple food recipes that deliver maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (approximately 3-4 pounds), cut into 8 pieces or use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large onion, cut into wedges
- 2 lemons, one thinly sliced, one juiced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, thyme, and rosemary)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your chicken and vegetables cook evenly. Preheating is a crucial step in many easy recipes, leading to better results.
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Prepare the vegetables: Wash and chop all the vegetables according to the ingredient list. Having everything prepped beforehand streamlines the cooking process significantly.
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Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the potatoes, carrots, and onion with olive oil, minced garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Make sure the vegetables are evenly coated.
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Arrange in the pan: Place the chicken pieces in a single layer in a large roasting pan or baking dish. Arrange the seasoned vegetables around the chicken. Tuck the lemon slices between the chicken and vegetables for extra flavor and moisture.
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Roast: Pour the lemon juice over the chicken and vegetables. Roast for 60-75 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C) and the vegetables are tender. Cooking time may vary depending on the size of your chicken.
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Rest and serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken and vegetables from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meal.
Cooking Tips for Delicious Dishes:
- For crispier skin: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels before seasoning and roasting.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- Use fresh herbs: If you have fresh herbs on hand, substitute 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs for the dried Italian herbs.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning for a spicy kick.
- Mediterranean Twist: Use oregano, thyme, and a sprinkle of feta cheese.
- Garlic Lover's Delight: Add extra garlic cloves or a sprinkle of garlic powder.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your chicken and the amount of vegetables used. However, a general estimate would be:
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 20-30g
This quick dinner idea is a perfect example of healthy meals you can easily make at home. It's a simple yet satisfying dish that the whole family will love. Enjoy this easy recipe and let us know what you think! This recipe embodies the best recipes, balancing ease and deliciousness.