One-Pan Chicken & Vegetables: A Simple, Healthy, and Flavorful Meal

One-Pan Chicken & Vegetables is a perfect weeknight dinner, easy to make, healthy, and full of flavor. With tender chicken and a colorful mix of roasted vegetables, this dish is cooked all in one pan, minimizing cleanup while maximizing taste. The combination of simple seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, and dried thyme enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and vegetables, making it an irresistible and satisfying meal for the whole family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Meal – Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor
• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes
• Healthy & Wholesome – Packed with vegetables and lean protein
• Customizable – Swap veggies or seasonings to suit your taste
• Family-Friendly – A meal everyone will love
• Versatile – Perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: About 35–40 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 boneless chicken breasts or thighs
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 bell peppers, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables
   Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) and sliced vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, zucchini) on a large baking sheet.
3. Season
   Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and vegetables. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried thyme (if using). Toss everything together to ensure everything is well coated with oil and seasoning.
4. Bake
   Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C) and the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve
   Serve hot and enjoy! Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor and color.

How to Serve

• Simple: Serve with a side of rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes
• Salad Pairing: A side green salad to balance the meal
• Hearty: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the juices
• With Sauce: Drizzle with your favorite sauce or dressing (ranch, tahini, etc.)

Helpful Tips

• Use bone-in chicken for more flavor: Bone-in chicken pieces can add extra richness to the dish, but may take longer to cook.
• Customize your veggies: Feel free to swap zucchini with broccoli, sweet potatoes, or any veggies you prefer.
• Check chicken temperature: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to guarantee it’s cooked through.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish is great for meal prepping, store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Variations

• Spicy Chicken & Veggies: Add chili flakes, cayenne, or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Herb-Roasted Version: Use fresh rosemary or thyme instead of dried thyme for a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
• Add Potatoes: Slice potatoes and add them to the pan for a more filling meal.
• Lemon Garlic: Add lemon zest and minced garlic for a zesty finish.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months (just make sure the chicken is cooled completely before freezing).
• Reheat: Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Yes, bone-in chicken thighs or chicken drumsticks work well too. Just adjust the cooking time.

Can I swap the veggies?
Absolutely! This dish is very versatile. Try using broccoli, cauliflower, or even sweet potatoes.

How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Do not overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) for perfect tenderness.

Can I make this ahead?
Yes! You can prepare the veggies and seasonings ahead of time, then bake when ready to serve.

Conclusion

One-Pan Chicken & Vegetables is the perfect solution for busy nights when you want a wholesome, flavorful meal with minimal cleanup. Packed with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and simple seasoning, this dish is sure to become a family favorite that’s quick, easy, and delicious!