Are you craving a healthy, flavorful, and easy dinner that's ready in under an hour? Look no further! This one-pan lemon herb chicken and seafood bake is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with protein, bursting with fresh flavors, and requires minimal cleanup – a win-win for everyone. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a delicious dish without sacrificing ease or health. It's one of those best recipes that consistently impresses.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 lb mixed seafood (shrimp, cod, scallops – your choice!), thawed if frozen
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, chicken broth can be substituted)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This simple step ensures your dish cooks evenly and perfectly.
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken, seafood, olive oil, minced garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Gently toss everything together to coat evenly. This ensures that every piece of chicken and seafood is infused with flavor.
Baking the Dish:
- Spread the chicken and seafood mixture in a single layer in a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish. Distributing it evenly allows for consistent cooking.
- Arrange the lemon slices over the top of the mixture. The lemon adds a bright, zesty flavor and helps to keep the seafood moist.
- If using, pour the white wine (or chicken broth) into the skillet. This adds moisture and depth of flavor. If you're avoiding alcohol, the broth works perfectly well.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the seafood is opaque and cooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Finishing Touches:
- Once cooked, garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. This adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Marinate the chicken and seafood in the herb mixture for at least 30 minutes before baking. This allows the flavors to fully penetrate the ingredients.
- Vegetable additions: Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the skillet for a complete and healthy meal. This adds nutritional value and variety.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. This adds a kick for those who prefer a spicier dish.
- Different seafood: Feel free to experiment with your favorite types of seafood. This recipe is adaptable to whatever you have on hand.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream during the last few minutes of baking for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This one-pan lemon herb chicken and seafood bake is a quick dinner idea that's perfect for busy weeknights. It's a delicious and healthy meal that's easy to customize to your liking. Enjoy this easy recipe for a satisfying and flavorful dinner! It's a great addition to your collection of best recipes. This recipe is perfect for those seeking healthy meals and easy recipes. It's a great example of delicious dishes that are also quick to prepare.