Let's face it, cooking doesn't have to be a culinary Olympics event to be delicious! We all crave those easy recipes, those healthy meals that don't require a PhD in gastronomy. This one-pan lemon herb roasted chicken and veggies is your answer – a quick dinner idea that's packed with flavor and unbelievably simple to make. Say goodbye to complicated food recipes and hello to homemade cooking bliss! This recipe is perfect for beginners, busy weeknights, and anyone who wants a delicious, healthy meal without the fuss. Prepare to be amazed by how easy and tasty this dish is!
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into 8 pieces OR 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 lb small red potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 lb 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, basil, thyme)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon 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 process!
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Chicken & Veggie Toss: In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces, potatoes, carrots, and onion with olive oil, minced garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is evenly coated.
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Lemon Love: Place the chicken and vegetables in a single layer in a large roasting pan or baking dish. Tuck the lemon slices amongst the chicken and vegetables. Pour the lemon juice over the mixture.
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Roast to Perfection: Roast for 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F) and the vegetables are tender. For boneless, skinless thighs, reduce cooking time to 30-40 minutes.
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Rest & Serve: Once cooked, 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 chicken.
Cooking Tips for Deliciousness:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure the chicken and vegetables are in a single layer to promote even cooking and browning.
- Use bone-in chicken for extra flavor: Bone-in chicken pieces generally result in a more flavorful and juicy dish.
- Adjust seasonings to your liking: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to personalize your dish. A sprinkle of paprika or rosemary would be delightful!
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Mediterranean Twist: Use oregano, thyme, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
- Sheet Pan Meal Prep: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Simply double the recipe and store leftovers in the refrigerator for quick and easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the size of your chicken and the specific ingredients used, but a rough estimate for one serving is:
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-30g
This one-pan wonder is a true testament to how easy delicious, healthy meals can be. Enjoy the simplicity and the satisfying flavors of this fantastic recipe! Happy cooking!