Are you tired of complicated recipes and endless cleanup? Craving a delicious, healthy meal that's ready in under an hour? Then look no further! This hearty one-pan roasted chicken and vegetable recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a simple, satisfying, and flavorful dish that the whole family will love. This is the ultimate in easy recipes, perfect for busy weeknights, and a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game with this crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into 8 pieces or use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 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 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, thyme, and rosemary)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and thoroughly dry the chicken pieces. This helps achieve crispy skin.
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Toss the Veggies: In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, carrots, and onion wedges. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat evenly.
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Arrange & Roast: Place the vegetables in a single layer in a large roasting pan or baking dish. Arrange the chicken pieces on top of the vegetables. Tuck lemon slices between the chicken and vegetables. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the chicken.
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Roast to Perfection: Roast for 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork. The internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). For extra crispy skin, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
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Rest & Serve: Once cooked, remove the roasting pan from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
Tips for the Best Results:
- Pat the chicken dry: This is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure the vegetables and chicken are in a single layer for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: This guarantees the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to add more herbs, spices, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli florets, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on the size of the chicken and the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: 35-45g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This one-pan wonder is a simple, delicious, and healthy meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s a fantastic example of delicious dishes achieved with minimal effort, proving that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated. Enjoy!