Are you craving a delicious and healthy dinner that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further! This one-pan lemon herb chicken and veggies recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, requires minimal cleanup, and is ready in under 30 minutes. This recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas, perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all skill levels. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
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Prep the Veggies: Chop the onion, bell pepper, and zucchini into bite-sized pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Mince the garlic. This step is crucial for even cooking and a beautiful final presentation.
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Brown the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until softened.
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Combine Everything: Stir in the chopped bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
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Bake to Perfection: Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a large amount of vegetables, consider using a larger skillet or baking in two batches to ensure even cooking.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to add more or less lemon juice, herbs, or spices depending on your preference. A dash of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or mushrooms.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier dish.
- Creamy Chicken: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end for a creamier texture.
- Cheesy Chicken: Sprinkle some shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This easy recipe with ground chicken is a perfect example of delicious dishes that are both healthy and quick to prepare. It's a versatile recipe that you can easily adapt to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy!