Are you dreaming of a delicious, healthy dinner that's also incredibly easy to make? Then look no further! This one-pan lemon herb roasted chicken and veggies recipe is your answer. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is packed with fresh flavors and requires minimal cleanup – a true win-win! It’s a quick dinner idea that’s so flavorful, it's sure to become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire. Get ready to impress your family with this simple yet elegant meal, inspired by the vibrant culinary scene of the Twin Cities.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into 8 pieces OR 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts
- 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 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.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the potatoes, carrots, and onion with olive oil, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure the vegetables are evenly coated.
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Arrange & Season Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a single layer in a large roasting pan or baking dish. Arrange the seasoned vegetables around the chicken. Tuck lemon slices underneath and around the chicken for extra flavor. Pour the lemon juice evenly over the chicken and vegetables.
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Roast to Perfection: Roast for 60-75 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C) and the vegetables are tender. You may need to adjust cooking time based on your oven and the size of your chicken pieces.
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Rest & Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken and vegetables from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meal.
Cooking Tips for Delicious Dishes:
- For extra crispy skin, pat the chicken dry with paper towels before placing it in the oven.
- Don't overcrowd the pan; ensure the chicken and vegetables have enough space to roast evenly.
- If you prefer a more intense lemon flavor, add the zest of one lemon to the vegetable mixture.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers.
- For a heartier meal, serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious pan juices.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken and Veggies: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Mediterranean Twist: Use fresh herbs like oregano, rosemary, and thyme instead of dried Italian herbs and add some Kalamata olives and feta cheese.
- Garlic Lover's Delight: Add extra garlic cloves to the vegetables or use garlic-infused olive oil.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 20-30g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. Enjoy this easy and healthy recipe! It's a perfect example of delicious food recipes that are also good for you. This one-pan wonder is a great addition to your list of best recipes, offering a simple yet satisfying meal for any night of the week. It's a healthy meal option that the whole family will love.