Ready for a delicious meal that’s easy to whip up? My One Pan Lemon Herb Chicken is packed with flavor and requires just one skillet! With juicy chicken thighs, fresh herbs, and vibrant veggies, this dish makes weeknight dinners a breeze. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare and clean up afterwards. Let’s dive into this tasty recipe that your whole family will enjoy!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup green beans, trimmed
– Fresh parsley for garnish
These ingredients work together to create a bright and zesty flavor. The chicken thighs are juicy and tender, while the lemon adds freshness. Cherry tomatoes burst with sweetness, and green beans provide a nice crunch.
Recommended Tools
– Large mixing bowl or zip-top bag
– Oven-safe skillet
– Measuring spoons and cups
Using the right tools helps make the cooking process easier. A mixing bowl allows for easy marinating, while an oven-safe skillet lets you cook everything in one pan. This method saves time and cleanup.
Nutritional Information
Each serving has about 350 calories, 20 grams of fat, 30 grams of protein, and 10 grams of carbohydrates. This dish is not only tasty but also packs a good amount of nutrients. You get protein from the chicken and vitamins from the veggies.
To explore how to make this dish step by step, check out the Full Recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, thyme, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
Marinating the Chicken
Marinating the chicken is key for great flavor. You can let it sit for at least 15 minutes at room temperature. For deeper taste, marinate it for up to 2 hours in the fridge. This allows the chicken to soak up all the zesty goodness. Use a large mixing bowl or a zip-top bag to coat the chicken well. The longer you let it marinate, the more flavorful it becomes.
Cooking Process
After marinating, arrange the chicken in a large oven-safe skillet. Lay it in a single layer. Surround the chicken with the halved cherry tomatoes and trimmed green beans. Pour any leftover marinade over the veggies for extra flavor. Bake the skillet in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The vegetables should be tender and bright. Once done, let the skillet rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps all the juices settle. Enjoy your One Pan Lemon Herb Chicken with a touch of fresh parsley on top for a pop of color!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Maximum Flavor
To make the most of your One Pan Lemon Herb Chicken, marinating is key. Use a simple mix of olive oil, lemon juice, herbs, and garlic. Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes. For a richer taste, let it sit for up to two hours in the fridge. This helps the chicken soak up all those tasty flavors. After cooking, let your chicken rest for five minutes. This keeps the juices inside, making each bite tender and juicy.
Cooking Techniques
To ensure your chicken is juicy and tender, don’t overcrowd the skillet. Place the chicken thighs in a single layer. This allows them to cook evenly. Use an oven-safe skillet to make the cooking process simple. Bake at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes. Always check that the chicken reaches 165°F inside. This guarantees it is safe to eat and perfectly cooked.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your chicken with sides that complement its bright flavors. Roasted potatoes or a fresh salad work well. You can also add crusty bread to soak up any sauce. For a pop of color, garnish with fresh parsley. A sprinkle of lemon zest adds an extra touch. This makes your meal look as good as it tastes. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can switch up the chicken cuts in this recipe. Try using boneless chicken breasts instead of thighs. If you prefer, you can use skin-on chicken for extra flavor. You might even opt for turkey thighs or a plant-based protein like tofu for a vegetarian twist.
For vegetables, cherry tomatoes and green beans work great, but you can get creative! Zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus make excellent substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time if you pick softer veggies.
Flavor Profile Variations
Want more flavor? Add spices like paprika or red pepper flakes for heat. Smoked paprika gives a nice depth, while red pepper adds a kick. You can also mix in cumin for a warm, earthy note.
Changing herbs can also bring new tastes. Instead of oregano and thyme, try rosemary or basil. Fresh herbs can really brighten the dish. Just remember to add them toward the end of cooking for the best flavor.
Dietary Considerations
This recipe can cater to different needs. For a gluten-free option, ensure the marinade does not contain any hidden gluten. The ingredients listed are already gluten-free.
If you’re watching carbs, you can skip the tomatoes and beans. Instead, add cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. These swaps keep your meal low in carbs while still being delicious.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To keep your One Pan Lemon Herb Chicken fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container. This helps lock in flavors and moisture. The dish stays fresh in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to let it cool before sealing it to avoid condensation.
Freezing Guidance
If you want to freeze this meal, follow these steps:
– Cool the chicken completely.
– Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
– It can last up to three months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to eat, take it out and thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F until warm. To keep the chicken tasty, add a splash of lemon juice while reheating.
Meal Prep Suggestions
This dish is great for meal prep. You can make it on Sunday for the week ahead. Here are some easy tips:
– Portion the chicken and veggies into meal prep containers.
– Store them with a side of rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
– These portions make it simple to grab and go during busy weekdays.
FAQs
How long should I marinate the chicken?
You should marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes. If you want more flavor, let it sit for up to 2 hours in the fridge. This longer time allows the chicken to soak up all the tasty lemon and herb flavors.
Can I use bone-in chicken thighs?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs. Just remember that they will take longer to cook. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure they are safe to eat. The bone adds great flavor and keeps the meat juicy, but adjust your cooking time to 30-40 minutes.
What can I substitute for green beans?
If you don’t have green beans, you can use other veggies. Good options include asparagus, broccoli, or snap peas. Each will bring its own taste and texture, making the dish unique. Just cut them to a similar size so they cook evenly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can cook a larger batch and store it in the fridge. Keep the chicken and veggies in airtight containers. They will last for up to four days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to eat. Enjoy a quick, tasty meal on busy days!
This blog post outlined a simple and tasty chicken recipe. You learned about key ingredients, tools, and step-by-step cooking instructions. We also discussed flavor tips and variations based on your needs. Storing leftovers and meal prep ideas were covered to help you enjoy this dish later.
Use this recipe to impress at dinner or save time with meal prep. Cooking can be fun and easy! Enjoy your culinary journeys, and happy cooking!
