Weeknight dinners can often become predictable, but what if you could take your meals to new heights with a few special ingredients? Say hello to the powerful combination of High Country Citrus Blend and Woodland Embers Smoked Salt. With these, you can turn an ordinary dinner into a mouthwatering experience. In this post, you'll discover how to create a zesty lemon herb roasted chicken accompanied by roasted root vegetables and a light arugula salad.
The Inspiration Behind Zesty Citrus Chicken
Citrus is a game changer in the kitchen. The High Country Citrus Blend not only enhances your roasted chicken with its tangy and savory notes, but it also comes packed with health benefits. Citrus fruits are high in vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system. For instance, just one medium lemon provides about 31 mg of vitamin C, approximately 34% of your daily requirement. A flavorful dish becomes a nutritional boost—a win-win!
Ingredients You'll Need
Before you start cooking, gather your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious meal:
For the Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken:
4 chicken thighs or breasts
2 lemons (one for zest and one for juice)
2 tablespoons of High Country Citrus Blend
3 tablespoons of olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary)
For the Roasted Root Vegetables:
2 cups of carrots, chopped
2 cups of parsnips, chopped
2 cups of sweet potatoes, chopped
2 tablespoons of Woodland Embers Smoked Salt
Olive oil
For the Arugula Salad:
4 cups of fresh arugula
1 lemon, juiced
2 tablespoons of olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Preparing the Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, High Country Citrus Blend, salt, and black pepper.
Coat the chicken thoroughly in the marinade, ensuring every piece is well covered. For best flavor, let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. If time allows, marinating it for a few hours or overnight can enhance the taste even further.

Step 2: Roast the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken on a baking dish or sheet pan. Roast for about 35 to 40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Basting the chicken with its own juices at least once during roasting ensures maximum flavor and moisture.
Roasting the Root Vegetables
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
While the chicken roasts, prepare your vegetables. In a large bowl, combine the chopped carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with Woodland Embers Smoked Salt.
Toss everything until the vegetables are well coated. This seasoning combines rich, smoky flavors that elevate traditional roasted veggies.
Step 2: Roast the Vegetables
Spread the seasoned vegetables evenly on a separate baking sheet. Place them in the oven alongside the chicken; they should roast for about 25 to 30 minutes. Stir them halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Crafting the Arugula Salad
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
As you wait for the chicken and vegetables to roast, prepare the arugula salad. In a bowl, mix fresh arugula leaves with lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss well to combine.
Step 2: Plate Your Meal
Once everything is ready, it’s time to serve. Arrange the zesty lemon herb roasted chicken with the smoky roasted root vegetables on a plate. Add a generous helping of fresh arugula salad for a colorful and nutritious dinner.

Tips for the Perfect Weeknight Dinner
Meal Prep: Marinate the chicken the night before for convenience and enhanced flavor.
Batch Cooking: Roast extra vegetables; they are great for lunch and pair well with grains like quinoa or rice.
Spice Variations: Experiment with Flaming Ember Steak Seasoning or other spice blends to customize your flavors.
Wrap-Up on Flavorful Dining
With the combination of simple ingredients, you can create a delightful lemon herb chicken and smoky roasted vegetables that make any weeknight dinner feel special. This recipe encourages you to try new flavors while gathering family and friends around the table.
Next time you need easy dinner recipes for two, remember this zesty feast. It promises satisfaction in every bite and can even provide fresh ideas for healthy work lunches from leftovers! So roll up your sleeves, grab your spices, and elevate your dinner game. Enjoy your culinary journey!
Comments