Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy, delicious meal the whole family will devour? Look no further! This one-pan lemon herb roasted chicken and veggies is a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful recipe that's perfect for busy weeknights. It's also completely paleo-friendly, meaning it's packed with wholesome ingredients and free from grains, legumes, and refined sugars. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its best – this recipe is a true winner for both delicious dishes and healthy meals!
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into 8 pieces or use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks
- 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
- 2 lemons, one thinly sliced, one juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the potatoes, carrots, and onion with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, half the garlic powder, half the salt, and half the pepper. Spread them evenly in a large roasting pan.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
In a separate bowl, toss the chicken pieces with the remaining olive oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. Make sure the chicken is well coated with the herbs and spices.
Step 3: Assemble and Roast
Arrange the chicken pieces on top of the vegetables in the roasting pan. Tuck the lemon slices around the chicken and vegetables. Pour the lemon juice over everything.
Step 4: Bake 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).
Step 5: 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 meal. Serve immediately and enjoy this easy recipe for a quick dinner idea!
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
- For extra crispy skin, pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning.
- Don't overcrowd the roasting pan. If necessary, use two pans to ensure even cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers.
- For a richer flavor, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken seasoning for a spicy kick.
- Herby Twist: Experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary, parsley, or sage.
- Root Vegetable Delight: Substitute sweet potatoes or parsnips for the potatoes and carrots.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your chicken and the amount of vegetables used. However, a reasonable estimate would be around 400-500 calories, with a good source of protein and healthy fats. This recipe is low in carbohydrates, making it a great choice for those following a paleo diet.
This one-pan wonder is a perfect example of how easy and delicious healthy meals can be. It's a fantastic option for busy families looking for simple yet satisfying dinner solutions. It's a truly delicious dish that showcases the best of homemade cooking and easy recipes, perfect for those searching for healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy!