Introduction to One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken with Vegetables
Are you looking for a simple yet delicious meal that brings the family together? Look no further! One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken with Vegetables is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. This recipe combines juicy chicken thighs with vibrant vegetables, all cooked in one pan. Not only does this save time on cleanup, but it also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What Makes One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken with Vegetables Special?
What sets this dish apart is its delightful balance of flavors. The zesty lemon and aromatic garlic create a mouthwatering marinade that seeps into the chicken, making it tender and flavorful. Meanwhile, the vegetables add a colorful crunch, making every bite a treat. Plus, the one-pan method means you can enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
This recipe is also highly customizable. You can swap out the vegetables based on what you have at home or your family’s preferences. Whether you prefer broccoli, bell peppers, or even zucchini, the possibilities are endless! This flexibility makes it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Moreover, One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken with Vegetables is not just tasty; it’s also nutritious. Packed with protein from the chicken and vitamins from the vegetables, this dish supports a healthy lifestyle. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your loved ones with this easy and delightful meal!
Ingredients for One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken with Vegetables
To create this mouthwatering One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken with Vegetables, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building flavor and nutrition. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken thighs: 4 pieces, bone-in and skin-on for juicy flavor.
- Broccoli: 2 cups, cut into florets for a crunchy texture.
- Bell peppers: 2 medium (any color), sliced for sweetness and color.
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced to add aromatic depth.
- Lemon: 1 large, juiced and zested for a zesty kick.
- Olive oil: 3 tablespoons to help with cooking and flavor.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon to enhance all the flavors.
- Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon for a hint of spice.
- Fresh parsley: for garnish (optional) to add a pop of color.
These ingredients come together to create a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. The vibrant colors of the vegetables combined with the golden-brown chicken make for a stunning presentation. Plus, the lemon and garlic marinade infuses the chicken with a refreshing flavor that is hard to resist.
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step preparation of this delightful meal!
Step-by-Step Preparation of One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken with Vegetables
Now that you have gathered all the ingredients for your One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken with Vegetables, it’s time to dive into the preparation. This step-by-step guide will help you create a delicious meal with ease. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken for One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken with Vegetables
First, you need to prepare the chicken thighs. Start by rinsing them under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important as it helps the skin get crispy during cooking. Next, place the chicken thighs in a large bowl or a resealable plastic bag. This will make marinating easier and mess-free.
Step 2: Chopping the Vegetables for One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken with Vegetables
While the chicken is drying, it’s time to chop the vegetables. Take your broccoli and cut it into bite-sized florets. Then, slice the bell peppers into thin strips. You can use any color of bell pepper you like, as they all add a unique flavor and color to the dish. Once chopped, set the vegetables aside on a large baking sheet.
Step 3: Marinating the Chicken for One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken with Vegetables
Now, let’s make the marinade! In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well mixed. Pour half of this marinade over the chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes. If you have more time, marinating for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator will enhance the flavor even more.
Step 4: Cooking the One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken with Vegetables
After marinating, it’s time to cook! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, drizzle the remaining marinade over the vegetables on the baking sheet. Toss them to coat evenly. Then, remove the chicken from the marinade and place it skin-side up on top of the vegetables. This allows the juices from the chicken to flavor the veggies as they cook.
Once everything is arranged, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the vegetables are tender. For an extra crispy finish, switch the oven to broil for the last 3-5 minutes. Just keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
Step 5: Serving Suggestions for One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken with Vegetables
Once your One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken with Vegetables is cooked, remove it from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even juicier. If you like, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!
This step-by-step preparation makes it easy to create a delicious meal that everyone will love. Now that you know how to prepare it, let’s explore some tips for perfecting your One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken with Vegetables!
FAQs about One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken with Vegetables
Can I use frozen chicken for One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken with Vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken for this recipe! However, it’s important to thaw the chicken completely before marinating. This ensures that the marinade penetrates the meat properly, enhancing the flavor. You can thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Once thawed, follow the marinating and cooking instructions as usual.
What vegetables pair well with One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken with Vegetables?
Many vegetables complement One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken beautifully. Besides broccoli and bell peppers, consider adding:
- Carrots: Their sweetness balances the savory chicken.
- Zucchini: It cooks quickly and adds a nice texture.
- Asparagus: This vegetable pairs well with lemon and adds a unique flavor.
- Cherry tomatoes: They burst with flavor and add a juicy element.
Feel free to mix and match based on your preferences or what you have on hand!
How long does One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken with Vegetables last in the fridge?
One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken with Vegetables can last in the fridge for up to 3-4 days when stored properly. Make sure to place the leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I make One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken with Vegetables ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and vegetables ahead of time. Marinate the chicken and chop the vegetables a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. This makes it easy to whip up a delicious meal on a busy night. Just remember to follow the cooking instructions once you’re ready to bake!
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One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Vegetables is a must-try!
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken with Vegetables is a simple yet delicious meal that combines juicy chicken thighs with vibrant vegetables, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup and a delightful flavor.
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs: 4 pieces, bone-in and skin-on for juicy flavor.
- Broccoli: 2 cups, cut into florets for a crunchy texture.
- Bell peppers: 2 medium (any color), sliced for sweetness and color.
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced to add aromatic depth.
- Lemon: 1 large, juiced and zested for a zesty kick.
- Olive oil: 3 tablespoons to help with cooking and flavor.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon to enhance all the flavors.
- Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon for a hint of spice.
- Fresh parsley: for garnish (optional) to add a pop of color.
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by rinsing it under cold water and patting it dry with paper towels. Place in a bowl or resealable bag.
- Chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets and slice the bell peppers into thin strips. Set aside on a baking sheet.
- Make the marinade by combining olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Pour half over the chicken and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Drizzle the remaining marinade over the vegetables and toss to coat. Place the marinated chicken skin-side up on top of the vegetables.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the vegetables are tender. Broil for an additional 3-5 minutes for extra crispiness if desired.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and enjoy!
Notes
- Feel free to swap out vegetables based on your preferences.
- Marinating the chicken for up to 2 hours enhances the flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time by marinating the chicken and chopping the vegetables a day in advance.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: One-Pan, Lemon, Garlic, Chicken, Vegetables, Easy Recipe, Family Meal
