Tired of spending hours in the kitchen? Craving a healthy and flavorful meal that doesn't require a mountain of dishes? Then you've come to the right place! This one-pot paleo lemon herb chicken and veggies recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with deliciousness, requires minimal cleanup, and is surprisingly quick to make. Get ready to enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal without the fuss! This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes, healthy meals, quick dinner ideas, and delicious dishes – all while keeping it paleo friendly! It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until softened. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
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Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken to the pot and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until browned on all sides. This step helps develop a richer flavor.
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Add Veggies and Seasonings: Stir in the zucchini, bell pepper, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Simmer to Perfection: Pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. You can easily check the doneness of the chicken by piercing it with a fork; the juices should run clear.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately. This dish is delicious on its own or you can pair it with a side of your favorite paleo-friendly vegetables like a simple green salad.
Cooking Tips for One-Pot Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pot: Ensure there's enough space for the chicken and vegetables to brown properly. If necessary, cook in batches.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile. A dash of red pepper flakes could add a nice kick!
- Use bone-in chicken thighs for extra flavor: If you prefer a richer, more intense flavor, bone-in chicken thighs are a great option. Just increase the cooking time accordingly.
Delicious Variations:
- Add Sweet Potatoes: Dice some sweet potatoes and add them along with the other vegetables for a touch of sweetness.
- Use Different Vegetables: Feel free to substitute your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, or green beans.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños for a spicier dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. The nutritional information will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used. This is an estimate and should be considered an approximation.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This one-pot paleo lemon herb chicken and veggies recipe is a fantastic example of how easy and delicious healthy eating can be. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying meal – a true testament to quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s a great choice for those seeking the best recipes and wanting to explore the world of paleo cooking.