Are you tired of endless meal prep and complicated recipes? Craving a delicious, healthy dinner that's ready in under an hour? Then look no further! This one-pan lemon herb roasted chicken and veggies recipe is your answer. It's a simple, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying dish perfect for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend meal. This recipe is packed with fresh herbs, juicy chicken, and tender vegetables, all roasted to perfection on a single pan for easy cleanup – a win-win! Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 4-6 thighs)
- 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 process of food preparation.
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Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring they're evenly coated.
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Assemble the Pan: In a large roasting pan or baking dish, toss the potatoes, carrots, and red onion with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the vegetables. Tuck the lemon slices between the chicken and vegetables.
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Roast to Perfection: Roast in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C) and the vegetables are tender. You can check for doneness by piercing the thickest part of the chicken with a fork; the juices should run clear.
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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. Serve immediately and enjoy this healthy and delicious meal.
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space between the chicken and vegetables for even cooking. If necessary, use two pans.
- Use bone-in chicken: Bone-in chicken thighs stay juicier and more flavorful during roasting.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to add more herbs, spices, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers.
Variations:
- Sheet Pan Fajitas: Use chicken breast, bell peppers, and onions. Season with fajita seasoning and serve with tortillas and your favorite toppings.
- Mediterranean Roast: Add cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and olives. Season with oregano, lemon zest, and feta cheese.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 20-30g
This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delicious weekend meal. It's a healthy, flavorful, and satisfying dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy your Cooking With Kyle experience!