Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner that's packed with protein? Look no further! This Lemon Herb Baked Chicken and Veggies recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's easy to prepare, requires minimal cleanup, and delivers a flavourful meal that's both satisfying and nutritious. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest – delicious, healthy, and surprisingly simple! It's one of those best recipes that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 lb broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon 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 put on some music and get yourself in the cooking mood!
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Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (longer is better for extra flavour!).
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Assemble the Baking Dish: In a large baking dish (9x13 inch is ideal), toss the potatoes, broccoli, and bell pepper with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the vegetables in a single layer.
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Bake: Place the marinated chicken breasts on top of the vegetables. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. You can check the chicken's doneness by inserting a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C).
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Serve: Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the baking dish: Ensure the vegetables and chicken have enough space to cook evenly. If necessary, use two baking dishes.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile. A sprinkle of paprika or red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side of quinoa or brown rice for a more filling and balanced meal.
Variations:
- Sheet Pan Dinner: For even easier cleanup, you can roast everything on a large baking sheet instead of a baking dish.
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for a spicier dish.
- Different Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, parsley, or sage.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 35-40g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This Lemon Herb Baked Chicken and Veggies recipe is a fantastic example of a quick dinner idea that's also incredibly healthy and delicious. It's a perfect example of easy recipes that don't compromise on flavor. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying high-protein meal! It's sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation!