One-Pan Chicken with Veggies is the perfect answer to busy weeknights when you need a quick, balanced, and satisfying meal. Combining juicy chicken breast with colorful, fresh vegetables, this dish is baked to perfection on a single sheet pan, making cleanup a breeze. It’s a versatile and customizable recipe that brings wholesome flavors to the dinner table with minimal effort.
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the chicken breasts on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Arrange the sliced bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and red onion evenly around the chicken.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and vegetables.
- Sprinkle the garlic powder, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper evenly over everything.
- Toss the vegetables gently to coat them well with the seasoning and olive oil.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the vegetables are tender.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve with lemon wedges if desired.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 310
- Protein: 33g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 220mg
Why One-Pan Meals Are Perfect for Busy Nights
One-pan meals like this chicken with veggies recipe have gained popularity for good reason—they save time, reduce cleanup, and simplify dinner prep without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. Instead of juggling multiple pots and pans, you arrange everything on a single sheet pan, season it, and let the oven do the rest. This makes it ideal for weeknights when time is short but you still want to enjoy a nourishing, homemade dinner.
Health Benefits of Chicken and Vegetables
Combining lean chicken breast with a colorful mix of vegetables creates a meal rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Chicken breast is known for being low in saturated fat while delivering high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and satiety. Meanwhile, the bell peppers, zucchini, tomatoes, and onions add immune-boosting vitamin C, potassium for heart health, and phytonutrients that help fight inflammation. This balanced combination supports a healthy lifestyle without excess calories.
Tips for Perfectly Roasted Chicken and Vegetables
Achieving juicy chicken and perfectly roasted veggies requires just a few key steps. Ensure the chicken breasts are roughly the same thickness for even cooking, and avoid overcrowding the pan so heat can circulate properly. Tossing the vegetables in olive oil helps them caramelize instead of steaming, and seasoning generously adds depth of flavor. Checking the internal temperature of the chicken (aiming for 165°F) guarantees that it stays moist and tender.
Creative Ingredient Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Swap chicken breasts for boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness, or add vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or baby potatoes to change the flavor and texture. If you enjoy spicier meals, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika before baking. For extra brightness, finish the dish with fresh lemon zest or a splash of balsamic vinegar.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
While this meal is balanced on its own, you can easily pair it with simple sides to make it more filling. Try serving over quinoa, brown rice, or whole wheat couscous for added fiber and texture. A side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette complements the roasted flavors beautifully, and a slice of crusty bread can help soak up any flavorful juices left on the pan.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
This dish stores exceptionally well, making it great for meal prep. Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place the chicken and veggies in a microwave-safe dish and heat gently until warmed through, or reheat in a preheated oven to help maintain the texture and prevent sogginess.
Meal Prep Benefits and Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing this recipe ahead of time saves effort on busy days. Chop the vegetables and season the chicken the night before, storing them separately in the fridge. When ready to cook, simply arrange everything on the sheet pan and bake. You can also double the recipe to enjoy lunches or quick dinners later in the week, making it an excellent meal prep staple.
Pairing with Sauces and Garnishes
Adding a sauce or fresh garnish elevates this simple dish. A drizzle of homemade tzatziki or tahini sauce brings creaminess, while fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or cilantro add color and freshness. Even a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or crumbled feta can bring an extra layer of savory flavor. Lemon wedges served on the side allow each person to add brightness to their liking.
Making It Kid-Friendly
This recipe can easily be adapted to suit younger palates. Choose milder vegetables that your kids enjoy, and keep seasoning simple by sticking to olive oil, salt, and a touch of garlic powder. Cutting vegetables into fun shapes or smaller pieces can make them more appealing, and serving the dish with a small cup of ketchup, honey mustard, or yogurt dip might encourage picky eaters to dig in.
Why This Recipe Fits Many Diets
One-Pan Chicken with Veggies is naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and high in protein, making it suitable for a variety of eating styles. With slight modifications, it can fit paleo, keto, or Whole30 diets by avoiding starchy add-ins and ensuring the seasoning blend is compliant. Its balanced nutrition profile also aligns well with general healthy eating goals, making it a family-friendly and versatile option.
Conclusion
One-Pan Chicken with Veggies proves that healthy meals don’t need to be complicated or time-consuming. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a single baking sheet, you can create a colorful, flavorful dinner that nourishes the whole family. Its flexibility, ease of preparation, and health benefits make it a recipe worth keeping in regular rotation, offering endless possibilities to keep dinner both exciting and wholesome.