Name: Lemon Chicken with Veggies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 6 tbsp olive oil; 2 none lemons ((1 thinly sliced, 1 juiced)); 4 tsp minced garlic; 1 tsp kosher salt; 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 3/4 lb green beans ((trimmed)); 8 small red potatoes ((quartered)); 4 none boneless skinless chicken breasts

There’s something magical about a meal that combines vibrant flavors, nourishing ingredients, and simplicity all in one dish. Enter Lemon Chicken with Veggies—a delightful, zesty recipe that not only pleases the palate but also brightens your dinner table. This dish features succulent chicken breasts, fresh green beans, and tender red potatoes, all brought together with the refreshing tang of lemon and aromatic garlic. It’s perfect for any night of the week and packs enough flavor to impress even the pickiest eaters.

Reasons to Love Lemon Chicken with Veggies

Lemon Chicken with Veggies is more than just a delicious meal; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and wholesome cooking. Here are a few reasons why you’ll fall in love with this dish:

– **Quick and Easy**: With minimal prep and cook time, this dish can be ready in under an hour, making it an ideal weeknight dinner.
– **One-Pan Wonder**: Everything cooks together in one pan, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping cleanup to a minimum.
– **Healthful Ingredients**: Packed with lean protein and colorful vegetables, this dish is nutritious and satisfying.
– **Versatile Flavor Profile**: The bright, zesty flavor of lemon pairs wonderfully with the savory garlic and tender chicken, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Shopping List

To make this Lemon Chicken with Veggies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

6 tbsp olive oil
2 lemons (1 thinly sliced, 1 juiced)
4 tsp minced garlic
1 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
3/4 lb green beans, trimmed
8 small red potatoes, quartered
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts

Appliances & Accessories

Before you start cooking, gather these handy kitchen tools:

Large Baking Sheet – Perfect for roasting all the ingredients together.
Mixing Bowl – To combine the marinade and coat the chicken and veggies.
Sharp Knife – For slicing the lemons and quartering the potatoes.
Meat Thermometer – To ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly.

Mastering Lemon Chicken with Veggies: How-To

Follow these easy steps to create your own Lemon Chicken with Veggies:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a perfectly roasted finish for your chicken and veggies.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, juice of one lemon, minced garlic, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk until well combined.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Add the boneless skinless chicken breasts to the bowl and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 4: Prepare the Veggies

While the chicken marinates, prepare the veggies. Toss the quartered red potatoes and trimmed green beans in the remaining marinade until well coated.

Step 5: Assemble on Baking Sheet

On a large baking sheet, arrange the marinated chicken breasts in the center. Surround them with the potatoes and green beans, and layer the thinly sliced lemon on top of the chicken and veggies.

Step 6: Roast in the Oven

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The veggies should be tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once done, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Lemon Chicken with Veggies warm, garnished with extra lemon slices if desired.

Smart Substitutions

Feel free to customize this dish with these substitutions:

Chicken Thighs – For a juicier option, use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts.
Other Vegetables – Swap in seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for variety.
Herbs – Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor.
Sweet Potatoes – Use sweet potatoes in place of red potatoes for a sweeter taste.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your Lemon Chicken with Veggies turns out perfectly:

Overcrowding the Pan – If the chicken and veggies are too close together, they may steam instead of roast. Ensure there’s enough space for air to circulate.
Not Marinating Long Enough – Don’t rush the marination process. Allowing the chicken to soak in the flavors will elevate the dish.
Undercooking the Chicken – Always use a meat thermometer to check the doneness of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (75°C).
Using Old Vegetables – Fresh, crisp vegetables will yield the best flavor and texture. Choose vibrant, firm veggies for roasting.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

If you have leftovers, Lemon Chicken with Veggies reheats beautifully. Here’s how to store and enjoy them later:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or you can microwave individual portions.

This dish also makes an excellent meal prep option. Prepare a batch on the weekend and portion it out for easy lunches throughout the week.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

While fresh chicken is recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before marinating and cooking.

What can I serve with Lemon Chicken with Veggies?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, quinoa, or a crusty loaf of bread. The zesty flavors complement a variety of sides.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the veggies a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to roast.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). A meat thermometer is the best tool for accuracy.

Before You Go

Lemon Chicken with Veggies is more than just a meal—it’s a wholesome experience that brings family and friends together. With its bright flavors and nourishing ingredients, this dish is bound to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen. Your taste buds will thank you!