Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious weeknight dinner that's also impressive enough for company? Look no further! This one-pan lemon herb roasted chicken and veggies recipe is your answer. It's an easy recipe, perfect for homemade cooking, requiring minimal cleanup and delivering maximum flavor. This dish is a celebration of fresh ingredients, boasting vibrant colors and aromas that will tantalize your taste buds. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it one of the best recipes for both busy weeknights and special occasions. This healthy meal fits perfectly into your quick dinner ideas repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into 8 pieces or use pre-cut pieces
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large red 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, thyme, and rosemary)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Preparing the Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, toss the potatoes, carrots, and red onion with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, half the minced garlic, half the salt, and half the pepper.
Assembling the Dish:
- Arrange the vegetables in a single layer in a large roasting pan or baking sheet.
- Place the chicken pieces on top of the vegetables.
- Drizzle the chicken with the remaining olive oil and lemon juice.
- Sprinkle the remaining minced garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper over the chicken and vegetables.
- Tuck the lemon slices around the chicken and vegetables.
Roasting the Chicken and Vegetables:
- Roast for 60-75 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F) and the vegetables are tender. Basting halfway through ensures even cooking and adds extra flavor.
Serving:
- Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meal.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Results:
- For extra crispy skin, pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels before seasoning.
- Don't overcrowd the pan; this can prevent even cooking. If necessary, use two pans.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers.
- For a richer flavor, use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces.
- If you prefer a more intense lemon flavor, add a tablespoon of lemon zest.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Herby Variations: Experiment with different herbs like fresh rosemary, sage, or parsley.
- Different Vegetables: Substitute your favorite root vegetables or add some green beans or asparagus.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 35-40g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This one-pan wonder is a simple yet elegant dish that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this delicious and easy recipe, and remember to share your culinary creations with us! We'd love to see your beautiful roasted chicken and veggie masterpieces. Happy cooking!