Are you tired of endless scrolling through food recipes, searching for a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner idea? Look no further! This one-pan lemon herb roasted chicken and veggies recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It’s incredibly easy to make, requires minimal cleanup, and delivers a burst of fresh, vibrant flavors the whole family will adore. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this simple yet impressive homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 4-6)
- 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 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, thyme, rosemary)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and prepare all your vegetables. This simple step saves time later.
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Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the chicken thighs with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, half the lemon juice, half the Italian herbs, half the garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (longer is better!).
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Assemble the Pan: In a large roasting pan or baking dish, toss the potatoes, carrots, and red onion with the remaining olive oil, lemon juice, herbs, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper.
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Arrange & Roast: Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on top of the vegetables. Tuck the lemon slices amongst the vegetables.
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Bake to Perfection: Roast in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F) and the vegetables are tender. Basting halfway through ensures even cooking and adds extra flavor.
Cooking Tips for a Delicious Dish:
- Bone-in vs. Boneless: Bone-in chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful for roasting. However, boneless, skinless thighs will cook faster. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Vegetable Variety: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli florets, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers.
- Herb Experimentation: Get creative with your herbs! Fresh herbs are fantastic if you have them on hand.
- Crispy Skin: For extra crispy chicken skin, pat the chicken dry before marinating.
Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy twist.
- Mediterranean Twist: Use oregano, thyme, and lemon zest for a Mediterranean flair.
- Garlic Lovers: Add extra garlic cloves to the pan for a more intense garlic flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on serving size and specific ingredients used. Use a nutrition calculator for a more precise estimate. Generally, this recipe is a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins.
This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal. Enjoy this delicious and healthy dish! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for both easy recipes enthusiasts and those looking to elevate their homemade cooking game. From quick dinner ideas to the best recipes for healthy meals, this one-pan wonder has it all.