One-Pan Chicken with Veggies – Quick & Healthy Dinner

This One-Pan Chicken with Veggies is a weeknight dinner hero—quick to prepare, easy to clean up, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Juicy chicken breasts or thighs are seasoned and roasted alongside colorful vegetables, all in a single baking sheet or skillet. The result is a well-balanced, flavorful meal that delivers protein, fiber, and essential nutrients in every bite. Ideal for busy schedules or meal prep, this dish is endlessly customizable and fits a variety of dietary preferences.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup baby carrots, halved
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 red onion, chopped
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional for serving)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet or oven-safe skillet.
  2. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning mix all over the chicken pieces.
  3. Arrange the veggies: Place the chopped vegetables around the chicken on the pan. Drizzle a little extra olive oil over the veggies and toss to coat. Sprinkle with additional salt and pepper if desired.
  4. Bake the dish: Roast in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
  5. Serve: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken and veggies, and garnish with chopped parsley if using. Serve hot.

Nutrition Facts 

  • Calories: 350
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.5g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 6g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Vitamin A: 120% DV
  • Vitamin C: 150% DV
  • Calcium: 6% DV
  • Iron: 10% DV

Nutritional Benefits of One-Pan Chicken with Veggies

One-Pan Chicken with Veggies is a nutrient-dense meal that offers a great balance of lean protein, fiber, and vitamins. Chicken, especially when using breast meat, is low in fat and rich in high-quality protein, which supports muscle repair and satiety. The accompanying vegetables—such as bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and zucchini—are loaded with essential nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber. This combination helps promote heart health, boosts immunity, and supports digestive wellness. The olive oil used for roasting adds a dose of healthy monounsaturated fats, contributing to better cholesterol levels and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Time-Saving Convenience for Busy Lifestyles

One of the most appealing features of this dish is how quickly it comes together. With everything cooked in a single pan, it significantly reduces prep time and dishwashing afterward. There’s no need for multiple pots or side dishes—just chop, season, and roast. This makes it an ideal solution for busy weeknights or meal prep Sundays. The hands-off roasting time also allows you to multitask while dinner takes care of itself in the oven, making it a practical choice for parents, professionals, or anyone with a tight schedule.

Customization and Variations

This recipe offers endless room for customization based on personal preference, dietary needs, or what’s in your fridge. You can swap the chicken breasts for thighs for a juicier texture or use plant-based chicken substitutes for a vegetarian alternative. The vegetable choices are equally flexible—sweet potatoes, cauliflower, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or green beans can all be added or substituted. You can also change up the seasoning: go Mediterranean with rosemary and lemon, add a smoky Southwest twist with cumin and chili powder, or use soy sauce and ginger for an Asian-inspired version.

Kid-Friendly and Family-Approved

Getting kids to eat a balanced meal can be a challenge, but One-Pan Chicken with Veggies appeals to both picky eaters and health-conscious parents. The naturally sweet flavors of roasted carrots and bell peppers make vegetables more appealing to young palates. You can also involve kids in the cooking process by letting them help arrange veggies on the pan or choose which ones to include. With familiar flavors and a colorful presentation, this meal often becomes a family favorite that satisfies everyone at the table.

Ideal for Meal Prep and Leftovers

This dish holds up well when stored and reheated, making it a favorite among those who meal prep. Once cooked, it can be portioned into individual containers and refrigerated for up to four days. The flavors often deepen overnight, resulting in even tastier leftovers. It also reheats quickly in a microwave or oven without drying out, especially when a bit of moisture like lemon juice or broth is added. For best results, store the chicken and vegetables separately to maintain texture, particularly if you want to avoid soggy veggies.

Perfect Pairings and Side Ideas

Although this one-pan dish is balanced on its own, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of simple sides. Serve it over a bed of fluffy quinoa, brown rice, or couscous for a heartier meal. Mashed potatoes or a crusty whole grain bread also work well to soak up any juices. If you’re keeping it low-carb, pair it with a simple green salad or cauliflower rice. For a complete meal with international flair, try adding a yogurt sauce or chimichurri on the side to enhance the flavor profile.

Great for Dietary Goals and Weight Management

Whether you’re following a high-protein, low-carb, Mediterranean, or Whole30-style diet, this dish fits a wide range of nutritional plans. The lean protein helps maintain muscle mass and promotes fullness, while the fiber-rich veggies assist in blood sugar regulation and digestion. Since it’s roasted instead of fried, the meal remains low in unhealthy fats. For those watching their calorie intake, it’s easy to adjust portion sizes or choose lower-calorie vegetables. Skipping starchy sides can make this a light, satisfying dinner option aligned with most weight management goals.

Flavor Boosters and Enhancements

Although the basic seasoning of garlic powder, paprika, and herbs is satisfying, this dish welcomes added flavors for an extra kick. A splash of balsamic vinegar or a drizzle of honey can lend a sweet-savory glaze. For heat lovers, crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha offer a spicy upgrade. A dash of lemon zest or fresh herbs like dill, basil, or cilantro can brighten the overall taste right before serving. These simple additions allow you to modify the dish to suit changing preferences without complicating the recipe.

Cooking Techniques for Best Results

Roasting is the primary cooking method used in this dish, which locks in moisture and caramelizes the vegetables for enhanced flavor. To ensure even cooking, it’s important to cut the vegetables into uniform sizes and avoid overcrowding the pan. Preheating the oven and using a high temperature (around 400°F or 200°C) helps the chicken cook through without drying out. For extra crispiness, broil the pan for the last 2–3 minutes of cooking. Using a meat thermometer is also a good idea to make sure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).


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Seasonal Flexibility and Ingredient Sourcing

This one-pan meal is incredibly adaptable to seasonal produce. In the spring and summer, incorporate zucchini, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes. During the fall and winter, root vegetables like sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, or parsnips provide warmth and earthiness. Shopping at local farmers’ markets or using what’s in season not only improves flavor but also supports sustainable practices and reduces grocery costs. Ingredient flexibility ensures you can enjoy this dish year-round without tiring of it, simply by rotating the veggie lineup to reflect the current season.

Conclusion

One-Pan Chicken with Veggies is a powerhouse of convenience, nutrition, and versatility. It simplifies dinnertime without sacrificing flavor or health benefits, making it a practical choice for families, singles, and busy professionals alike. From its minimal cleanup to its adaptability for various diets and seasons, it’s a recipe that earns a permanent spot in any kitchen’s rotation. With just a few tweaks, it can be tailored to satisfy a range of palates and occasions—whether you’re prepping lunches for the week or putting together a last-minute dinner. Simple, satisfying, and endlessly customizable, this one-pan wonder delivers every time.

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