Are you craving a healthy, delicious, and incredibly easy dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This one-pan lemon herb chicken and veggies recipe is your answer. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking that's perfect for busy weeknights, offering a quick dinner idea that's bursting with flavor. This recipe is packed with fresh ingredients, making it a healthy meal that the whole family will love. Forget complicated food recipes; this one is simplicity at its finest!
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
- 1 lemon, 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 vegetables. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels – this helps it brown better.
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Toss it All Together: In a large bowl, combine the chicken, potatoes, broccoli, and bell pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
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Arrange & Bake: Spread the mixture in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Arrange the lemon slices on top of the chicken and vegetables.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
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Serve & Enjoy! Serve immediately. This dish is fantastic on its own, but a simple side salad adds a refreshing touch.
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure the chicken and vegetables are in a single layer for even cooking. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to add more herbs, spices, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Add other veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus.
- Use bone-in chicken: For extra flavor, you can use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Variations:
- Sheet Pan Fajitas: Swap the herbs for fajita seasoning and serve with tortillas and your favorite toppings.
- Mediterranean Twist: Use oregano, lemon zest, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
- Garlic Lover's Delight: Add extra garlic cloves to the mix, either minced or whole.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on serving size and specific ingredients used. However, expect a meal relatively low in carbohydrates, moderate in protein, and a good source of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the exact ingredients and quantities used.
This one-pan lemon herb chicken and veggies recipe is a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor and nutrition. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas, making healthy meals a breeze! Enjoy this delicious and satisfying dish!