Are you craving a delicious, healthy meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further! This one-pan lemon herb roasted chicken and veggies is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, requires minimal cleanup, and is a fantastic example of healthy, homemade cooking. This recipe is a winner for those seeking quick dinner ideas and best recipes that don't compromise on taste or nutrition. Get ready to enjoy a vibrant, flavorful dish that's both satisfying and good for you!
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 onion, cut into wedges
- 2 lemons, one juiced, one thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp dried 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 prepare all your vegetables. This is a great time to get the kids involved in the kitchen for some easy, homemade cooking fun!
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Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, the juice of one lemon, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated. Marinating for at least 15 minutes will enhance the flavor.
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Assemble the Pan: Spread the potatoes and broccoli evenly on a large baking sheet. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil. Arrange the marinated chicken pieces on top of the vegetables. Tuck the lemon slices amongst the chicken and vegetables.
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Roast to Perfection: Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 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).
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Serve & Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. This simple yet delicious dish is perfect as a healthy meal on its own or with a side salad.
Cooking Tips for Easy Recipes:
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the chicken marinade.
- Feel free to substitute other vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- If you prefer crispy chicken, you can broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- This recipe is easily scalable – feel free to double or triple it to feed a crowd!
Variations:
- Mediterranean Twist: Add Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a sprinkle of dried mint to the pan during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce into the marinade.
- Herb Experimentation: Get creative with your herbs! Rosemary, parsley, or basil would all be delicious additions.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of lean protein, fiber, and vitamins. The exact nutritional values will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. A general estimate would be around 350-400 calories, depending on portion sizes and specific ingredients. This makes it a fantastic choice for healthy meals and part of a balanced diet.
This one-pan lemon herb roasted chicken and veggies is a true testament to the power of simple, delicious food recipes. It's a perfect example of how easy it can be to create healthy, flavorful meals without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!