Are you looking for healthy and delicious dinner options that won't keep you slaving away in the kitchen? Then you've come to the right place! This recipe for Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken and Veggies is a perfect example of an easy paleo dinner recipe that's both quick to prepare and packed with flavor. It's a fantastic choice for busy weeknights, and it's so satisfying you'll be making it again and again. This recipe is perfect for those following a paleo diet, but it’s also easily adaptable for other dietary needs. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into 8 pieces or use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried herbs (Italian mix, Herbes de Provence, or a custom blend of rosemary, thyme, oregano)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 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
- 1 cup broccoli florets
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, dried herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
Step 2: Arrange and Roast
Place the chicken pieces in a single layer in a large roasting pan. Tuck lemon slices between the chicken pieces. Add the potatoes, carrots, and onion around the chicken. Scatter the broccoli florets amongst the vegetables.
Step 3: Roast to Perfection
Roast for 45-60 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). You can check this with a meat thermometer. For extra crispy skin, broil for the last few minutes of cooking.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the roasting 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 your delicious and healthy paleo dinner!
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For extra flavor: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before roasting.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure the chicken and vegetables are in a single layer to promote even cooking.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the size of your chicken and vegetables. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to add other paleo-friendly vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb mixture for a spicy kick.
- Garlic Lovers: Add extra garlic by using fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder.
- Different Herbs: Experiment with different herb combinations to find your favorite flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your chicken and the specific vegetables used. However, a general estimate per serving is:
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-30g
This easy paleo dinner recipe is a fantastic addition to your healthy meal repertoire. It's a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. Enjoy the process of homemade cooking and savor every bite of this delicious dish!