There’s something truly magical about the combination of zesty lemon and savory herbs, especially when they come together to create my Lemon Herb Chicken & Potatoes. This dish is a flavor-packed experience that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a lively gathering with friends. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder how something so delicious can be so easy to make! The juicy chicken thighs, infused with the brightness of lemon and the comforting embrace of herbs, paired with tender, roasted potatoes, make for a meal that feels both satisfying and refreshing. Plus, it’s all baked in one dish, which means less mess and more time to enjoy your meal. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients for Lemon Herb Chicken & Potatoes
- 4 chicken thighs, skin-on for extra flavor
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, extra virgin preferred for richness
- 1 lemon, juice and zest for that zesty punch
- 2 teaspoons dried herbs (I love a mix of oregano and thyme)
- 4 medium potatoes, cubed into bite-sized pieces for even cooking
- Salt to taste, I usually go for about 1 teaspoon
- Pepper to taste, freshly cracked is the best!
How to Prepare Lemon Herb Chicken & Potatoes
Alright, let’s dive into the magic of making this Lemon Herb Chicken & Potatoes! First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is super important because we want that lovely, golden-brown crust on our chicken and tender potatoes.
While the oven is heating up, grab a bowl and mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Oh, the smell is already fantastic! Then, toss in your dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Whisk it all together until it’s nicely combined. Now, take your chicken thighs and add them to the bowl, making sure they’re well-coated with that zesty mixture. Let them soak up all those flavors for about 10 minutes if you can.
Next, take a baking dish and scatter the cubed potatoes at the bottom. Lay the chicken thighs right on top of the potatoes, skin-side up, so they get all crispy and delicious as they bake. Pour any remaining marinade over everything for a little extra flavor boost.
Now, pop that dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. Serve it hot, and get ready for a flavor explosion!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and straightforward preparation—perfect for a weeknight dinner!
- Bright and zesty flavors from the lemon that elevate the dish.
- Juicy chicken thighs that stay tender while baking with the potatoes.
- All-in-one dish means less cleanup, so you can focus on enjoying your meal.
- Healthy and satisfying, with wholesome ingredients that make you feel good.
Tips for Success
To make sure your Lemon Herb Chicken & Potatoes turn out perfect every time, here are a few handy tips. First, don’t skip marinating the chicken! Even just 10-15 minutes makes a world of difference in flavor. If you have a bit more time, try letting it marinate in the fridge for a couple of hours or even overnight. Also, be careful with your seasoning—taste as you go! You can always add more salt and pepper, but it’s harder to fix if you overdo it.
When it comes to the potatoes, make sure they’re cut into evenly sized cubes. This helps them cook at the same rate as the chicken. And don’t forget to check the chicken’s internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C) to be safely cooked through. Lastly, feel free to sneak a taste of those potatoes as they bake—they soak up all that delicious chicken juice and are absolutely irresistible!
Variations of Lemon Herb Chicken & Potatoes
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to mix up this Lemon Herb Chicken & Potatoes recipe! For a different flavor profile, try swapping out the dried herbs for fresh rosemary or dill—both bring a delightful twist. You could even add a dash of smoked paprika for a hint of warmth and depth.
Want to throw in some extra veggies? Carrots, bell peppers, or even Brussels sprouts roast beautifully alongside the chicken and potatoes. Just make sure to cut them to a similar size for even cooking. And if you’re after a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes in the marinade adds a nice kick! The possibilities are endless, so get creative and make it your own!
Serving Suggestions for Lemon Herb Chicken & Potatoes
When it comes to serving my Lemon Herb Chicken & Potatoes, I love to keep it simple and delightful! A fresh green salad is a perfect companion—think mixed greens tossed with a light vinaigrette. It adds a nice crunch and balances the hearty chicken and potatoes.
If you want to elevate the meal a bit more, a side of steamed asparagus or green beans drizzled with a bit of olive oil and lemon juice works wonders. And let’s not forget some warm, crusty bread to soak up those delicious juices! You’ll find this meal is not only satisfying but also makes for a beautiful spread on your dining table.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have leftovers of my Lemon Herb Chicken & Potatoes (which is always a bonus!), storing them properly is key to enjoying them again. Start by letting the dish cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to separate the chicken from the potatoes if you can, as the potatoes can get a bit soggy.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This helps keep the chicken skin crispy and the potatoes fluffy. You can also use the microwave, but keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking. Enjoy those flavorful bites once more!
Nutritional Information for Lemon Herb Chicken & Potatoes
When you’re enjoying my Lemon Herb Chicken & Potatoes, it’s nice to know what you’re putting into your body! Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 1g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. It’s always great to be mindful of what’s on your plate, and I hope this helps you enjoy your meal even more!
FAQ About Lemon Herb Chicken & Potatoes
Got questions about my Lemon Herb Chicken & Potatoes? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I get:
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work, but keep an eye on the cooking time since they may cook faster. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What if I don’t have dried herbs?
No problem! Fresh herbs are a fantastic substitute. Just remember that fresh herbs are more potent, so use about three times the amount as you would dried.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to cook!
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, my Lemon Herb Chicken & Potatoes is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions!
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer—it should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, make sure the juices run clear when you cut into it.
For more delicious recipes, check out my blog for inspiration!
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Lemon Herb Chicken & Potatoes: 5 Steps to Flavor Bliss
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful dish of lemon herb chicken served with potatoes.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon (juice and zest)
- 2 teaspoons dried herbs (oregano, thyme)
- 4 medium potatoes (cubed)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken thighs to the mixture and coat well.
- Place cubed potatoes in a baking dish.
- Arrange chicken on top of the potatoes.
- Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken and potatoes.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- Adjust herbs based on your preference.
- Marinate chicken for a few hours for better flavor.
- Use fresh herbs if available for enhanced taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Lemon Herb Chicken, Chicken and Potatoes, Easy Chicken Recipe, Baked Chicken