Easy Dinner Recipes for When You Can’t Be Bothered – Med to Care

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Easy dinner recipes for quick and hassle-free meal preparation
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Easy Dinner Recipes for When You Can’t Be Bothered – Med to Care

Sometimes, after a long day, the idea of cooking an elaborate dinner can feel overwhelming. That’s where easy dinner recipes come in handy. They allow you to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. One delightful option is Easy Dinner Recipes for When You Can’t Be Bothered. Let’s dive into one of these easy recipes that will make your evenings more enjoyable and relaxed.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe checks all the boxes: it’s simple, quick, and utilizes common ingredients you may already have in your pantry. It’s perfect for those busy nights when you want something satisfying but simply can’t muster the energy to cook a complicated meal. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it is also healthy and customizable, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. Additionally, this versatile dish can be made in under 30 minutes, giving you more time to unwind after a long day.

How to Make Easy Dinner Recipes for When You Can’t Be Bothered

One standout recipe for this category is One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Vegetables. This dish brings together savory chicken with vibrant, seasonal vegetables and a zesty lemon-garlic sauce.

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, juiced and zested
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • Optional: fresh herbs for garnish (like parsley or basil)

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Allow it to marinate for 10-15 minutes if time permits.
  4. While the chicken is marinating, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper for easy cleaning.
  5. Place the marinated chicken breasts in the center of the baking sheet.
  6. Arrange the broccoli florets, sliced bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes around the chicken on the baking sheet.
  7. Drizzle the remaining marinade over the vegetables.
  8. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  9. Once done, remove from the oven, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve immediately.

Easy Dinner Recipes for When You Can’t Be Bothered - Med to Care

Pro Tips for Success One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Vegetables

  1. Marinate Longer for Extra Flavor: If you can, marinate the chicken for a few hours in the refrigerator to enhance the flavor even more.
  2. Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (75°C).
  3. Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables based on what you have on hand. Zucchini, carrots, or asparagus work well!
  4. Experiment with Spices: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
  5. Leftovers Make Great Lunches: This dish is excellent for meal prep. Store leftovers in airtight containers for easy lunches.

Flavor Variations One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Vegetables

  1. Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different aroma.
  2. Spicy Southwest Twist: Substitute the oregano with chili powder and add corn and black beans to the veggie mix.
  3. Mediterranean Delight: Include olives and feta cheese for a Mediterranean flair.
  4. Lemon Herb Rice: Serve the chicken and vegetables over lemon-herb rice for a hearty meal option.
  5. Creamy Sauce: Drizzle with a lemon cream sauce made from heavy cream and more garlic for an indulgent touch.

Serving Suggestions One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Vegetables

This dish pairs beautifully with quinoa, rice, or even a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. For a low-carb option, serve it over a bed of spinach or kale. Additionally, a fresh garden salad on the side can complement the meal perfectly.

Storage and Freezing Instructions One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Vegetables

Allow leftover chicken and vegetables to cool before storing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to prepare a larger batch, you can freeze the cooked chicken and vegetables for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving) —

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 38g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sodium: 350mg

FAQ About Easy Dinner Recipes for When You Can’t Be Bothered

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used in this recipe. They tend to be juicier and can be even more flavorful. Just ensure they are cooked to the same internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

What other vegetables can I use in this dish?

You can customize the vegetable selection based on what you have available. Options like zucchini, carrots, and asparagus work wonderfully. Just cut them to similar sizes for even cooking.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This one-pan meal is ideal for meal prep. Simply store each serving in separate airtight containers for quick, ready-to-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the marinade and chop the vegetables ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and combine them on the day you plan to cook.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

For a vegetarian alternative, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or cubed tofu. Ensure to season them well and adjust cooking times as needed.

What can I do if I don’t have fresh garlic?

If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder instead. One clove of garlic is roughly equivalent to 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder. Adjust according to your taste.

Final Thoughts

Preparing easy dinner recipes is a fantastic way to simplify your evenings and enjoy delicious homemade meals without the added stress. The One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Vegetables recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients and minimal effort can lead to delightful results. Whether you are tackling a busy schedule or just feeling a bit worn out, this dish ensures a satisfying meal that doesn’t require hours of work in the kitchen. Embrace the ease of cooking with this delicious, nutritious recipe, and savor the time you save for what really matters. Happy cooking!

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One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Vegetables

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  • Author: recipesforcook
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: None
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Description

A quick and easy one-pan recipe featuring savory chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a zesty lemon-garlic sauce, perfect for busy nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, juiced and zested
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • Optional: fresh herbs for garnish (like parsley or basil)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Allow it to marinate for 10-15 minutes if time permits.
  4. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper for easy cleaning.
  5. Place the marinated chicken breasts in the center of the baking sheet.
  6. Arrange the broccoli florets, sliced bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes around the chicken on the baking sheet.
  7. Drizzle the remaining marinade over the vegetables.
  8. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  9. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

Marinate the chicken longer for extra flavor, use a meat thermometer for perfect cooking, and customize with your favorite vegetables.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

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