Tired of takeout and microwave meals? Ready to impress yourself and maybe even a special someone with some delicious, homemade food? This recipe book for men is designed to be your guide into the world of easy, satisfying cooking, proving that cooking healthy and delicious meals doesn't require culinary school! We'll focus on simple techniques and flavorful results, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend afternoons. Let's get cooking!
One-Pan Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken and Veggies
This one-pan wonder is the epitome of easy recipes and healthy meals. It requires minimal cleanup and delivers maximum flavor, making it a go-to for quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into 8 pieces or use pre-cut pieces
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1 onion, cut into wedges
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the potatoes, carrots, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange the vegetables in a single layer in a large roasting pan.
- Place the chicken pieces on top of the vegetables.
- Tuck lemon slices under and around the chicken.
- Sprinkle the chicken with rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Roast for 60-75 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).
- Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Tips:
- For extra crispy skin, pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels before seasoning.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers.
- If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, add the juice of half a lemon to the vegetables before roasting.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning for a spicy kick.
- Garlic Lovers: Add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic to the vegetables.
- Herb Experimentation: Try different herbs like oregano, parsley, or sage.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
This recipe is a great example of delicious dishes you can easily create at home. It’s a satisfying and healthy meal, perfect for showcasing your newfound cooking skills. Homemade cooking doesn't have to be intimidating – start with simple recipes like this one and build your confidence in the kitchen. Enjoy!