Tired of endless scrolling through food recipes, searching for a quick dinner idea that's both healthy and delicious? Craving a homemade meal that doesn't require hours in the kitchen? Then look no further! This one-pan lemon herb roasted chicken and veggies recipe is your answer. It's an easy recipe, perfect for busy weeknights, and delivers a burst of fresh flavors that will leave you feeling nourished and satisfied. This is a true testament to the power of simple, delicious, and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or a mix of thighs and drumsticks)
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 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)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and prepare all your vegetables. This is a great time to put on some music and enjoy the cooking process!
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the potatoes, carrots, and red onion with olive oil, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure the vegetables are evenly coated.
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Arrange in Pan: Spread the vegetables in a single layer in a large roasting pan or baking dish. Place the chicken thighs on top of the vegetables. Tuck lemon slices under and around the chicken.
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Roast: Pour the lemon juice over the chicken and vegetables. Roast for 45-55 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).
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Rest & Serve: Remove the pan from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish. Serve immediately and enjoy this delightful and easy recipe!
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure the vegetables and chicken are in a single layer for even cooking. If necessary, use two pans.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the size of your chicken pieces and vegetables. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- Use fresh herbs: If you have fresh herbs on hand, use about 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs instead of dried herbs.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Mediterranean Twist: Use oregano, thyme, and lemon zest for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
- Sheet Pan Dinner: You can easily adapt this recipe to a sheet pan for easy cleanup.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This one-pan wonder is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy meals that don't sacrifice flavor for ease. It's a great option for meal prepping, making it ideal for busy weeknights or even prepping for the week ahead. This recipe showcases how simple homemade cooking can be, bringing delicious dishes to your table with minimal effort. Enjoy!