Easy lemon chicken with golden potatoes: the perfect weeknight dinner

Indulge in the captivating flavors of this delectable lemon chicken recipe with potatoes. This dish combines the zesty brightness of lemons with the tender succulence of chicken and the earthy goodness of potatoes, creating a symphony of taste that will tantalize your palate.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, garlic, oregano, and thyme. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

2. Roast the Potatoes: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the potatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned.

3. Combine Chicken and Potatoes: After the potatoes have roasted for 20 minutes, add the marinated chicken to the baking sheet. Stir to combine the chicken and potatoes.

4. Continue Roasting: Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue roasting for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are golden brown.

5. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the lemon chicken and potatoes from the oven and serve immediately. Garnish with additional fresh parsley, if desired.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh lemon: The freshness of the lemon is key to the bright and zesty flavor of this dish. Use organic lemons if possible.
• Marinate the chicken: Marinating the chicken allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy dish.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough. Cook the chicken just until it is cooked through to maintain its tenderness.
• Roast the potatoes until tender and browned: The potatoes should be tender on the inside and slightly browned on the outside. This creates a delightful contrast in texture.

Variations

• Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the dish, such as sliced carrots, celery, or bell peppers.
• Use different herbs: If you don’t have oregano or thyme, you can substitute other herbs, such as rosemary, sage, or basil.
• Make it spicy: If you enjoy a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili powder to the marinade.
• Serve with a sauce: This lemon chicken and potatoes dish pairs well with a variety of sauces, such as a lemon cream sauce, honey mustard sauce, or barbecue sauce.

Benefits of This Dish

Not only is this lemon chicken recipe with potatoes delicious, but it also offers several nutritional benefits:

• High in protein: Chicken is a lean protein source that helps build and maintain muscle mass.
• Rich in vitamin C: Lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function and skin health.
• Good source of fiber: Potatoes provide dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health and helps you feel full.
• Low in fat: This recipe uses lean chicken and olive oil, resulting in a dish that is low in saturated fat.

Key Points: A Culinary Masterpiece

This lemon chicken recipe with potatoes is a culinary masterpiece that will impress your taste buds and nourish your body. Its vibrant flavors, tender textures, and nutritional benefits make it a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a delicious and healthy meal, this dish is sure to satisfy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A1: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. However, be sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking.

Q2: How long can I marinate the chicken?
A2: You can marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. Longer marinating time will result in more flavorful chicken.

Q3: What if I don’t have baby potatoes?
A3: You can use regular potatoes instead. Just cut them into smaller pieces so that they roast evenly.

Q4: Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
A4: Yes, you can add other vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers.

Q5: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A5: Yes, you can make the lemon chicken and potatoes ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.