Quick Sheet Pan Chicken and Vegetables Recipe
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This Quick Sheet Pan Chicken and Vegetables Recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and cleanup, you can enjoy a delicious and healthy meal in no time!
This recipe brings together tender chicken and vibrant vegetables, all cooked on a single sheet pan. It's not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A one-pan meal for easy cleanup
- Healthy and colorful with seasonal vegetables
- Flavorful chicken that cooks perfectly every time
Quick and Easy Meal Prep
Meal prep can often feel daunting, but this Quick Sheet Pan Chicken and Vegetables Recipe simplifies the process significantly. With just a few ingredients and minimal chopping, you can have everything ready to go in under 15 minutes. The beauty of a sheet pan meal is that all the ingredients cook together, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you focus on other tasks or simply relax.
For those busy weeknights when time is of the essence, this recipe is a lifesaver. You can even prepare the chicken and veggies ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When you're ready to eat, just pop them in the oven, and in no time, you'll have a delicious, home-cooked meal waiting for you.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrition. Chicken breasts are an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle building and repair. Coupled with a variety of colorful vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes, this meal provides a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health.
Broccoli is known for its high vitamin C content, which boosts the immune system, while bell peppers are rich in vitamin A and fiber. Cherry tomatoes add a pop of sweetness and are a great source of lycopene, an antioxidant linked to heart health. This balanced meal is sure to keep you feeling energized and satisfied.
Customizing Your Sheet Pan Recipe
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables based on what you have on hand or what's in season. Zucchini, asparagus, or carrots can all be wonderful additions. You can also experiment with different seasonings or marinades to suit your taste preferences. Try adding Italian herbs like oregano and basil or a splash of soy sauce for an Asian twist.
For those looking to add some whole grains, consider serving the chicken and vegetables over quinoa or brown rice. This not only enhances the meal with additional fiber but also makes it even more filling. The possibilities are endless, making this dish a staple in your weekly meal rotation.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Vegetables
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to wash and chop the vegetables before starting.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
Add Vegetables
Add broccoli, bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes to the bowl. Toss until the vegetables are well coated in the oil and seasonings.
Arrange on Sheet Pan
Spread the chicken and vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Serve
Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your meal!
Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences!
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken
To ensure your chicken breasts are perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you notice that your chicken is browning too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil to prevent overcooking while the veggies finish roasting.
Another tip is to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and flavorful chicken. You can also slice the chicken against the grain for a more tender bite.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers from this sheet pan meal can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When storing, separate the chicken and vegetables to maintain their textures and flavors. You can easily reheat them in the microwave or toss them back in the oven for a few minutes until warmed through.
If you want to enjoy this meal later in the week, consider freezing the cooked chicken and vegetables. Just make sure to cool them completely before transferring them to freezer-safe containers. They can last for up to three months, making weeknight dinners even more convenient.
Pairing Suggestions
This Quick Sheet Pan Chicken and Vegetables Recipe pairs beautifully with a light salad or a side of whole grain bread. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the flavors without overwhelming them. Alternatively, a slice of crusty bread can help soak up any tasty juices from the chicken and veggies.
For a refreshing beverage, consider serving this meal with a chilled glass of sparkling water infused with lemon or cucumber. If you're in the mood for something a bit stronger, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc can enhance the meal beautifully, accentuating the fresh flavors of the vegetables.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables work well too. Just adjust the cooking time if needed.
→ What can I substitute for chicken?
You can use tofu, shrimp, or any protein of your choice.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any seasonal vegetables you like.
Quick Sheet Pan Chicken and Vegetables Recipe
This Quick Sheet Pan Chicken and Vegetables Recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and cleanup, you can enjoy a delicious and healthy meal in no time!
Created by: Eliza Thornton
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken and Vegetables
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, combine chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
Add broccoli, bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes to the bowl. Toss until the vegetables are well coated in the oil and seasonings.
Spread the chicken and vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your meal!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 40g