Healthy Lemon Herb Chicken With Roasted Vegetables

Name: Healthy Lemon Herb Chicken With Roasted Vegetables
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Juice of 2 lemons; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 red onion, cut into wedges; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Wholesome Kitchen

I absolutely love making this Healthy Lemon Herb Chicken with Roasted Vegetables for lunch or dinner! It’s a delightful dish that combines tender, juicy chicken infused with vibrant lemon and fresh herbs, paired perfectly with a medley of colorful roasted veggies. Preparing this meal brings a burst of flavor and nutrition to my table, and I appreciate how easy it is to put together. The aroma of herbs fills the kitchen, making it hard to wait until the dish is ready to eat!

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2026-02-27T18:25:37.011Z

What I love about this recipe is how versatile it is. I've experimented with different vegetables based on what I have in my fridge, from broccoli to bell peppers, and they all roast beautifully. The chicken becomes tender thanks to the marination, allowing the flavors to meld wonderfully. For me, the key was sautéing the garlic before adding it to the marinade; it really enhances the flavor!

Another tip I've found is to let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight if you have time. This really allows the lemon and herb flavors to penetrate the meat fully. The vibrant colors and fresh tastes always impress my family and friends, making this dish a favorite at gatherings.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bursting with fresh flavors from lemon and herbs
Packed with healthy vegetables for a nutritious meal
Easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
A visually appealing dish that impresses guests

The Importance of Marination

Marinating the chicken in lemon juice not only imparts a fresh and zesty flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat. The acidity from the lemon juice breaks down the proteins in the chicken, making it juicier. Aim for a minimum of 30 minutes for marination, but for even more flavor, consider marinating for up to 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator. Just be sure to keep it covered to prevent contamination.

Make sure to give the chicken a gentle massage with the marinade to ensure every piece is well-coated. This helps the herbs and spices penetrate the meat better. If you're short on time, you could also use a zip-top bag to marinate; it allows for easy tossing without making a mess and ensures even coating.

Perfecting Your Roasted Vegetables

When roasting vegetables, the key is to cut them into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. For this recipe, keep your broccoli florets, bell pepper slices, and carrot rounds similar in size, roughly 1-inch pieces. This helps achieve that luxurious golden-brown color and enhances texture. If your vegetables are overcooked, they'll become mushy, so eye them closely during the last 10 minutes of roasting.

Using a high-heat 400°F (200°C) oven is crucial for achieving caramelization. The sugars in the vegetables begin to caramelize, intensifying their sweetness and flavor. If you prefer a more pronounced char, you can broil the vegetables for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end, but watch closely to prevent burning.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Juice of 2 lemons
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Roasted Vegetables

2 cups broccoli florets
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 red onion, cut into wedges
2 carrots, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a separate bowl, toss the broccoli, bell pepper, red onion, and carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on a baking sheet.

Roast

Place the chicken on the baking sheet with the vegetables. Roast for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

Serve

Remove from the oven, let rest for 5 minutes, and slice the chicken. Serve hot with the roasted vegetables.

Enjoy your healthy meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the marinade. It's delicious!

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers of the Healthy Lemon Herb Chicken and Roasted Vegetables can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the chicken's moisture when reheating, try adding a splash of water or broth to the container before microwaving. Cover it to create steam, which prevents the chicken from drying out.

If you wish to freeze portions, ensure they are completely cooled before transferring them to freezer-safe bags. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This dish pairs beautifully with a side of quinoa or brown rice for a complete meal. Alternatively, consider serving it over a bed of mixed greens for a light and refreshing salad. You can also garnish with freshly chopped parsley or additional lemon zest for added brightness just before serving.

For a twist on the ingredients, feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or asparagus. This recipe is versatile and can easily accommodate what you have on hand. If you want to add some heat, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes on the veggies before roasting can add a wonderful kick.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that any additional ingredients you use are labeled gluten-free.

→ What vegetables work best for roasting?

You can use a variety of vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts based on your preference.

→ Can I prepare this meal in advance?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and chop the vegetables a day ahead to save time on cooking day.