Are you a busy mum juggling work, kids, and everything in between? Finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel impossible. But what if I told you that you could create a fantastic dinner in under an hour, with minimal cleanup? This one-pan lemon herb roasted chicken and veggies recipe is your answer! It’s a complete meal, packed with flavor, and so easy, even on your busiest days. This recipe offers a quick dinner idea, perfect for homemade cooking, and makes a delicious dish the whole family will love. It's one of the best recipes for healthy meals, easily adaptable, and perfect for beginners.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or a mix of thighs and drumsticks)
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 2 lemons, one thinly sliced, one juiced
- 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 prepare all your vegetables.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the potatoes, carrots, and red onion with olive oil, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure 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 dish.
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Prepare Chicken: Place the chicken thighs on top of the vegetables. Tuck lemon slices under and around the chicken. Pour the lemon juice over the chicken and vegetables.
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Roast: Roast for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F) and the vegetables are tender. If the vegetables start to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent the pan with foil.
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Serve: Remove from the oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure the vegetables and chicken are in a single layer for even cooking. If necessary, use two pans.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the size of your chicken and vegetables. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers.
Variations:
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Herby: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or parsley.
- Garlic lover?: Add extra garlic cloves to the pan.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This one-pan wonder is a fantastic example of easy recipes that don't compromise on flavor or nutrition. It's a great way to get a healthy meal on the table quickly, leaving you with more time to spend with your family. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is a staple in our home, and I hope it becomes one in yours too! Enjoy!