In the world of home cooking, the quest for a dish that balances ease of preparation with deliciousness and nutritional value is never-ending. The Garlic & Lemon Chicken with Red Potatoes & Green Beans recipe triumphs in all these categories, offering a wholesome, one-pan meal that is as satisfying to make as it is to eat. I recently prepared this dish for a weeknight dinner, and it was an absolute delight. The chicken was succulent and flavorful, infused with the zesty aroma of lemon and the warmth of garlic, while the vegetables were perfectly roasted to complement the protein. This recipe not only filled the kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma but also brought the family together for a truly enjoyable meal.
Ingredients
- 6 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 lemons, 1 thinly sliced, 1 juiced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 3/4 pound trimmed green beans
- 8 small red potatoes, quartered
- 4 chicken breasts (bones left in, with skin, about 3 1/4 pounds)
How To Make GARLIC & LEMON CHICKEN WITH RED POTATOES & GREEN BEANS
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F. Lightly coat a large baking dish or cast-iron skillet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Prepare the Lemon Layer: Arrange lemon slices in a single layer at the bottom of your dish or skillet.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken, green beans, and potatoes to the bowl, tossing everything to ensure an even coat of the marinade.
- Arrange in Pan: Transfer the coated chicken, green beans, and potatoes into the pan, spreading them out evenly over the lemon slices.
- Roast: Place in the oven and roast for about 50 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the vegetables are tender.
- Serve Warm: Once cooked, serve the dish warm, directly from the skillet or transferred to a serving platter.
Nutrition Facts
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Varies depending on chicken size and additional ingredients but is approximately 500-600 calories per serving.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: About 65 minutes
Additional Tips
- Marinating: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken and vegetables in the garlic-lemon-oil mixture for a few hours before cooking.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables such as asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts to diversify the dish.
- Broiling: For a crispy finish on the chicken skin, broil the dish for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
FAQ Section
- Can I use boneless chicken?
- Yes, but the cooking time may need to be adjusted as bone-in chicken typically takes longer to cook.
- Is it necessary to use fresh lemon juice?
- Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- You can prepare the ingredients and marinate the chicken and vegetables ahead of time, but it’s best cooked fresh for optimal taste and texture.
- How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
- The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F when measured with a meat thermometer.
- Can I use different types of potatoes?
- Yes, other small potatoes like Yukon gold or fingerlings can also be used. Adjust cooking time if necessary.
- What can I do if my vegetables are cooking faster than my chicken?
- If the vegetables are done before the chicken, you can temporarily remove them from the oven and return them to finish cooking together with the chicken for the last few minutes.
- Can this recipe be made in a slow cooker?
- While possible, the texture and crispiness of the roasted version would be lost. It’s best made in an oven for this particular recipe.
- Is this recipe gluten-free?
- Yes, as long as the ingredients used are gluten-free, this recipe is suitable for a gluten-free diet.
Garlic & Lemon Chicken with Red Potatoes & Green Beans is a testament to the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients coming together to create a meal that’s both nourishing and delicious. It’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit various dietary needs and preferences, making it a reliable go-to for any home cook.