Imagine a dish that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also simplifies your dinner routine—welcome to the One Pot Meal Lemon Chicken with Vegetables! In just 45 minutes, you can whip up a flavorful, wholesome meal that combines succulent chicken thighs with vibrant, fresh veggies, all infused with the zesty brightness of lemon. Whether you're a busy parent, a novice cook, or just looking for a delicious weeknight dinner, this recipe is your ticket to culinary success. Dive into a world of flavors and discover how easy it is to create a satisfying meal that will leave your family asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 lemons
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, zucchini)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by washing and chopping vegetables: dice carrots, slice bell peppers, and cut zucchini into bite-sized pieces. Slice one lemon into thin rounds and juice the other lemon.
- Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, and dried thyme on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Place chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot pan and cook for 5-6 minutes until skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip and cook the other side for 3-4 minutes.
- Remove chicken from the pan and set aside. In the same pan, sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add mixed vegetables to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Return chicken thighs to the pan, arranging them on top of the vegetables. Place lemon rounds around and between the chicken pieces.
- Pour fresh lemon juice over the chicken and vegetables. Cover the pan and reduce heat to medium-low.
- Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from heat, let rest for 5 minutes, and serve hot directly from the pan, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your vegetables and season the chicken thighs in advance. This way, you can simply throw everything together when you're ready to cook.
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and lemons will enhance the flavor of your dish. Look for vibrant, crisp veggies for the best results.
- Sear the Chicken: Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. This will help achieve that golden, crispy skin that adds texture and flavor.
- Don’t Rush the Simmer: Allow the chicken to simmer with the vegetables and lemon juice for the full 15-20 minutes. This step ensures the chicken is tender and infused with all the delicious flavors.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme just before serving. They not only enhance the dish's appearance but also add a fresh burst of flavor.
- Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand. Broccoli, asparagus, or even sweet potatoes can make great additions!
- Serve with a Side: Pair your One Pot Meal with a side of rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious lemony juices.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 140mg
