Mr. Food Recipe Today: Easy One-Pan Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken and Veggies
Hey there, foodies! Looking for a quick, easy, and delicious dinner recipe that's also healthy? Then you've come to the right place! Today, we're whipping up a fantastic one-pan lemon herb roasted chicken and veggies inspired by the legendary Mr. Food himself. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and requires minimal cleanup – a huge bonus!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences and what's in your fridge. Here's a basic list:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds): You can substitute with individual chicken pieces if preferred.
- 1 lemon: For that zesty burst of flavor!
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For a healthy dose of fats and richness.
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs (Italian mix, Herbes de Provence, or your favorite): Enhance the chicken's flavor profile.
- Salt and pepper to taste: These essentials enhance every dish.
- 1 pound assorted vegetables: Think potatoes (cubed), carrots (chopped), broccoli florets, bell peppers (sliced) – get creative!
Simple Step-by-Step Instructions:
This recipe is designed to be as straightforward as possible:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial for evenly cooked chicken and tender vegetables.
- Prepare the chicken: Rinse the chicken thoroughly and pat it dry. Place it in a large roasting pan.
- Juice and zest that lemon: Squeeze the juice of the lemon over the chicken and rub the zest all over the skin for extra citrus flavor.
- Season generously: Don't be shy with the salt, pepper, and herbs. Rub them all over the chicken, ensuring it's evenly coated.
- Add the veggies: Toss your chosen vegetables with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange them around the chicken in the roasting pan.
- Roast to perfection: Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven and roast for approximately 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the vegetables are tender. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Rest and serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
Tips and Variations for a Mr. Food-Approved Meal:
- Add some garlic: Minced garlic adds a wonderful aromatic touch to this dish.
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: For extra juicy and flavorful results.
- Experiment with different vegetables: Asparagus, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes all work beautifully.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up all those delicious pan juices.
Why This Recipe is a Winner:
This one-pan lemon herb roasted chicken and veggies recipe is a true winner for several reasons: It's easy, delicious, healthy, and requires minimal cleanup. It's the perfect weeknight meal that the whole family will love. So ditch the takeout menus and try this recipe today! Let us know in the comments how your Mr. Food-inspired masterpiece turned out! Happy cooking!
