Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving healthy, delicious meals but short on time? Then look no further! This one-pan lemon herb roasted chicken and veggies recipe is your new best friend for busy weeknights. It's quick, easy, incredibly flavorful, and packed with nutrients – the perfect example of healthy meals that don't require hours in the kitchen. This recipe showcases the best of homemade cooking, delivering a restaurant-quality dish without the restaurant-quality time commitment. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 lb broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 lemons, one juiced, one thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 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 chop all your vegetables. This is a great time to get the kids involved in the cooking process!
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Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, lemon juice, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated.
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Assemble the Pan: Spread the potatoes and broccoli evenly in a large roasting pan or baking sheet. Arrange the chicken pieces on top of the vegetables, then scatter the chopped bell pepper around. Tuck the lemon slices amongst the chicken and vegetables for extra flavor and a beautiful presentation.
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Roast to Perfection: Roast in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. You can check the chicken's internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
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Serve & Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This simple yet delicious dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. It’s a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas that are both satisfying and nutritious.
Cooking Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space between the chicken and vegetables for even cooking. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
- Adjust cooking time: Depending on the size of your vegetables and chicken pieces, you might need to adjust the cooking time. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
- Add other veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Different herbs: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, parsley, or sage.
- Sheet pan fajitas: Use chicken and bell peppers only, and serve in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This one-pan wonder is a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor and nutrition. It's a delicious dish, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy recipes. This recipe is a testament to the ease and deliciousness of homemade cooking, offering a healthy and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy!