Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen? Craving a healthy and delicious meal without the fuss? Then look no further! This one-pan lemon herb roasted chicken and veggies recipe, inspired by a recent Twin City Live segment, is your answer. It's a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor and are ideal for busy weeknights. This recipe is a testament to the power of homemade cooking, proving that healthy meals don't have to be complicated.
This simple yet elegant dish features juicy roasted chicken infused with bright lemon and fragrant herbs, perfectly complemented by tender roasted vegetables. Get ready to enjoy a quick dinner idea that's so good, it'll become a staple in your weekly meal rotation.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 4-6 thighs)
- 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 oregano
- 1 tbsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
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, oregano, thyme, 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. Place the chicken thighs on top of the vegetables. Tuck lemon slices under and around the chicken.
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Roast: Pour the lemon juice over the chicken and vegetables. Roast for 45-55 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F) and the vegetables are tender. You may need to adjust cooking time depending on your oven and the size of your chicken pieces.
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Rest & Serve: Once cooked, remove the pan from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Enjoy your delicious and effortless meal!
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure the vegetables and chicken are in a single layer for even cooking. If necessary, use two pans.
- Use bone-in chicken thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs stay juicier and more flavorful during roasting.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your unique flavor profile. Rosemary, sage, or paprika would be delicious additions.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through to prevent foodborne illnesses.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli florets, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary, sage, or thyme.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your chicken and vegetables. Nutritional information is best calculated using a nutrition calculator and inputting your specific ingredients and portion sizes. However, this dish is generally considered a healthy and balanced meal, rich in protein and vegetables.
This one-pan wonder is a perfect example of delicious dishes that are both easy to make and packed with flavor. It’s a fantastic recipe for those looking for quick dinner ideas without compromising on taste or nutrition. It's the perfect healthy meal solution for busy weeknights, and a great way to enjoy homemade cooking without the effort. This recipe easily earns a spot among the best recipes you'll ever try.