Are you tired of endless meal prep and complicated recipes? Craving a delicious, healthy dinner that's also quick and easy? Then look no further! This one-pan lemon herb roasted chicken and veggies is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a complete meal, bursting with flavor, and requires minimal cleanup – a true win-win! This recipe is a staple in our kitchen, and we're excited to share it with you. It's a perfect example of how easy and delicious homemade cooking can be, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas.
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 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, rosemary)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Preheat and 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 enjoy the prep work!
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the potatoes, carrots, and onion with olive oil, minced garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Make sure the vegetables are evenly coated.
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Arrange in Pan: Spread the vegetables in a single layer in a large roasting pan or baking sheet. Arrange the chicken pieces on top of the vegetables.
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Lemon Magic: Tuck the lemon slices under and around the chicken pieces. Pour the lemon juice evenly over the chicken and vegetables. This adds a beautiful brightness and zest to the dish.
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Roast to Perfection: Roast for 50-60 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F) and the vegetables are tender. You can check the chicken's doneness with a meat thermometer.
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Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the pan from the oven and let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
Cooking Tips for Delicious Dishes:
- For extra crispy skin: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels before placing them in the pan.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure the vegetables and chicken are in a single layer for even cooking. If necessary, use two pans.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to add more herbs, spices, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers.
Variations:
- Mediterranean twist: Add Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Herb experiment: Try different herb combinations, such as rosemary and garlic, or thyme and lemon.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
This one-pan wonder is a perfect example of healthy meals made easy. It's a delicious and satisfying dish that the whole family will enjoy. From beginner cooks to seasoned chefs, this recipe is a surefire winner! Enjoy!