Are you looking for a quick and easy meal that tastes great? One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken & Potatoes is your answer! This dish combines juicy chicken with golden potatoes and zesty herbs, all cooked in one pan. No fuss and minimal cleanup. In this article, I’ll guide you step-by-step to make this delightful dinner that your family will love. Ready to impress? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 4 bone-in chicken thighs
– 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
– 1 lemon, zested and juiced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking Tools Needed
– Large mixing bowl
– Whisk
– Oven-safe skillet or baking dish
– Measuring spoons
– Knife and cutting board
Optional Add-ins
– Lemon wedges for serving
– Other herbs like rosemary or basil
– Seasonal veggies like carrots or green beans
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheating the Oven
First, you need to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for cooking the chicken and potatoes evenly. If your oven is not hot enough, the meal will not cook well.
Preparing the Marinade
Next, grab a large mixing bowl. In it, combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, and olive oil. Then, add the dried oregano and thyme. Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste. Whisk everything until it blends well. This marinade is what gives the chicken its tasty flavor.
Marinating the Chicken
Now, add the chicken thighs to the bowl. Toss them in the marinade until they are fully coated. Let them sit for about 15 minutes. This time helps the chicken soak up all the great flavors.
Arranging in the Pan
While the chicken marinates, take a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish. Place the halved baby potatoes in the pan. Drizzle them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss the potatoes to coat them well. Then, arrange the marinated chicken thighs on top of the potatoes. Pour any leftover marinade from the bowl over both the chicken and potatoes.
Baking Process
It’s time to bake! Place the skillet in your preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes. You want the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the potatoes to be tender. For extra crispy skin, you can broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes at the end. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
Finishing Touches
After baking, remove the skillet from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle. Before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch. This adds a nice color and flavor to your dish. Enjoy your one-pan lemon herb chicken and potatoes!
Tips & Tricks
Key Ingredients for Flavor
For the best taste, focus on fresh lemon and herbs. Use:
– 1 lemon, zested and juiced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
These add bright, zesty notes to the chicken. The dried oregano and thyme also pack a punch. They pair well with the chicken and potatoes, making every bite flavorful.
How to Achieve Crispy Chicken Skin
To get crispy skin, follow these steps:
1. Pat the chicken dry: This helps the skin crisp up.
2. Broil at the end: After baking, broil for 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
This method gives you that perfect crunch. You’ll love the texture it adds to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken & Potatoes straight from the skillet. This adds a rustic feel. You can also use a large platter for a nicer look. Sprinkle with extra parsley for color. Adding lemon wedges on the side boosts flavor and presentation. Enjoy this dish with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Variations
Alternative Proteins
You can use different meats in this dish. Try bone-in chicken breasts or drumsticks for a twist. If you want a lighter option, consider using turkey thighs. For a vegetarian take, swap chicken for firm tofu. Make sure to adjust cooking times for each protein to ensure they cook well.
Different Vegetables
Feel free to change up the veggies. Carrots, bell peppers, or asparagus work well. You can even add green beans or broccoli for color. Just cut the vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking. This keeps everything tender and tasty while roasting.
Flavor Profile Adjustments
Change the herbs for a new taste. Use rosemary or basil instead of oregano or thyme. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. If you love garlic, add more cloves or use roasted garlic for a sweeter flavor. Adjust the lemon juice based on your taste, too.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
Once you finish your meal, let the chicken and potatoes cool. You can store leftovers in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to three days. This way, you can enjoy the flavors again!
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, place the chicken and potatoes on a baking sheet. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can cover the dish with foil to keep it moist.
Freezing Tips
If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the dish cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat.
FAQs
How long does it take to cook chicken thighs?
It takes about 35 to 40 minutes to bake chicken thighs at 400°F (200°C). Use a meat thermometer to check. The safe internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is cooked well and safe to eat.
Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs! They will cook faster, so check them around 25 to 30 minutes. Boneless thighs can still soak up the marinade flavor. Just make sure they reach the safe cooking temperature.
What should I serve with One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken & Potatoes?
Pair this dish with a fresh salad or steamed veggies. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the flavors. Rice or crusty bread can also round out your meal. These sides add color and texture to your plate.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
You can prepare the chicken and potatoes ahead of time. Marinate the chicken overnight in the fridge. Then, when ready, just bake it. This makes meal prep easy and saves time on busy days. You can enjoy a delicious meal with less effort!
Making One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken & Potatoes is simple and fun. You have all the tools and tips needed. We covered key ingredients for taste and how to get crispy skin. You can play with flavors and try different proteins and veggies.
Remember, storing leftovers is easy, and reheating keeps them tasty. Feel free to ask questions from our FAQ section. Enjoy your meal, and share your cooking journey!
