Mediterranean Lemon Herb Chicken with Roasted Carrots, Broccoli & Vegetables
This hearty Mediterranean meal combines juicy, zesty chicken thighs with a medley of perfectly roasted vegetables like asparagus, carrots, broccoli, and cherry tomatoes. Infused with lemon, garlic, and herbs, this dish is both wholesome and bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or a nutritious family meal.
Total Time:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
Chicken:
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Salt and black pepper to taste
Vegetables:
1 cup asparagus, trimmed
2 cups carrots, sliced
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges, for serving
Marinade/Seasoning:
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
Juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon dried rosemary
½ teaspoon dried basil (optional)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
1 teaspoon honey (optional)
1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional)
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Marinade:
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, herbs, Dijon mustard, honey, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Marinate the Chicken:
Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Place in a zip-top bag or dish, pour over the marinade, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours).
Roast the Vegetables:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss carrots, broccoli, and asparagus in olive oil, salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder if desired. Spread on a baking sheet. Roast for 20 minutes.
Add Chicken and Cherry Tomatoes:
After the veggies have roasted for 20 minutes, add marinated chicken thighs (skin-side up) and cherry tomatoes to the baking sheet. Spoon extra marinade over the chicken. Roast an additional 25–30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temp of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy.
Finish & Serve:
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges. Enjoy with warm pita or rice if desired.
Tips & Variations
Tips:
Crispy Skin Tip: Pat chicken thighs dry before marinating for crispier skin when baked.
Even Roasting: Cut vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure they roast evenly.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Always check that the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe doneness.
Marinate Ahead: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
Variations:
Swap Proteins: Use bone-in chicken breasts or boneless thighs if preferred (adjust cooking time).
Add Grains: Serve over couscous, quinoa, or rice for a complete meal.
Extra Veggies: Try adding zucchini, red onions, or bell peppers.
Low-Carb Version: Skip the honey and soy sauce; serve with cauliflower rice.
Spice It Up: Add harissa paste or a dash of cayenne for extra heat.
Q&A (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I use boneless chicken?
A: Yes, boneless thighs or breasts cook faster. Reduce baking time to 20–25 minutes, depending on thickness.
Q: Can I roast everything together at once?
A: Yes, just start with denser vegetables (carrots, broccoli) and add softer veggies (asparagus, tomatoes) later to prevent overcooking.
Q: What can I do with leftovers?
A: Use them in wraps, grain bowls, or chopped into a Mediterranean salad the next day.
Q: Can I grill the chicken instead?
A: Absolutely! Grill over medium-high heat for 6–7 minutes per side until cooked through.
Nutrition Information
(Approximate per serving — varies by portion and ingredients)
Calories: 420
Protein: 30g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 480mg
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Lemon Herb Chicken with Roasted Carrots & Broccoli is a fresh, nutritious, and satisfying dish that brings together wholesome vegetables, tender marinated chicken, and bold Mediterranean flavors. Whether for a family dinner or meal prep, it’s a versatile, all-in-one recipe that delivers comfort and flavor with every bite. Serve it with lemon wedges and fresh parsley, and enjoy the taste of the Mediterranean in your own kitchen.