One Pan Easy Healthy Dinner Chicken

Name: One Pan Easy Healthy Dinner Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Light Healthy Meals Collection

I love quick and flavorful meals, and this One Pan Easy Healthy Dinner Chicken fits the bill perfectly! With just a few ingredients and minimal cleanup, I'm always amazed at how something so simple can be so delicious. The tender chicken paired with vibrant vegetables makes for a well-rounded dinner that is not only healthy but also satisfying. If you're looking for a stress-free way to prepare dinner without sacrificing flavor, this recipe is for you!

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2026-02-23T23:01:38.047Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was skeptical about how flavorful a dish could be with so few ingredients. However, after seeing the vibrant colors of the vegetables and the golden chicken, I was convinced. The key to success here is allowing everything to roast together, enhancing the flavors beautifully. The convenience of a one-pan meal means less mess in the kitchen and more time enjoying dinner with family.

I've experimented with different herbs and spices, and I found that a pinch of smoked paprika elevates the dish to the next level. This versatility means you can adjust it according to your personal taste preferences, ensuring it never gets boring. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any veggies you have on hand!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick preparation and easy cleanup with just one pan
Flavorful chicken that perfectly complements fresh vegetables
Healthy meal packed with nutrients and color

The Versatility of One Pan Meals

One pan meals like this One Pan Easy Healthy Dinner Chicken are fantastic because they simplify the cooking process while maximizing flavor. By cooking everything in the same pan, you ensure that the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a cohesive dish that’s both inviting and satisfying. The juices from the chicken infuse into the vegetables, elevating their taste and eliminating the need for extra sauces or seasonings.

Another advantage is the variety of vegetables you can use. While this recipe features broccoli and bell peppers, feel free to experiment with seasonal veggies like zucchini, asparagus, or even carrots. Just keep in mind that different vegetables may require slight adjustments in cooking time, so check for doneness to ensure everything is perfectly tender.

Mastering the Chicken

Getting the chicken just right is crucial for this recipe. To ensure a tender and juicy result, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If you find the chicken is browning too quickly, you can loosely cover the pan with aluminum foil halfway through baking to prevent it from drying out. Additionally, consider marinating the chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, and your favorite herbs for an hour before cooking for enhanced flavor.

If you’re using frozen chicken breasts, be sure to thaw them completely before cooking to avoid uneven cooking. A quick way to thaw is to place them in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour. This ensures a consistent cook and prevents the chicken from becoming rubbery, which can happen if it starts cooking from frozen.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

One of the best features of this dish is how well it stores. After cooking, let the chicken and vegetables cool to room temperature, then transfer them to airtight containers. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, making this a fantastic meal prep option. Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, taking care not to overheat, which can dry out the chicken.

If you want to prepare this dish in advance, consider chopping your vegetables the day before and storing them in the fridge. This saves time on weeknights and can help you get dinner on the table more quickly. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken and vegetables in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Just reheat thoroughly before serving, ensuring the chicken reaches that safe temperature again.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this healthy dinner:

Main Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups broccoli florets
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure you have all these ingredients ready before you begin preparing your meal.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your One Pan Easy Healthy Dinner Chicken:

Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly.

Add Vegetables

Place the broccoli and sliced bell peppers around the chicken on a large baking sheet. Drizzle with a little more olive oil and season to taste.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy one-pan meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what you have available or what’s in season. Adding in some sliced carrots or zucchini can give an extra twist to the flavor and texture.

Flavor Enhancements

While the garlic powder in the recipe adds a lovely flavor, consider adding fresh minced garlic for an extra kick. Cooking fresh garlic for the last minute before adding vegetables can also release aromatic oils that create a depth of flavor. Additionally, a sprinkle of lemon juice just before serving brightens the dish, enhancing the freshness of the vegetables while providing a tangy contrast to the chicken.

Herbs can also play a crucial role in elevating this dish. Fresh thyme or rosemary pairs wonderfully with chicken and can be added along with the olive oil. Just be cautious with dried herbs, as you only need a fraction; about one teaspoon, since they are more concentrated in flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This One Pan Easy Healthy Dinner Chicken is fantastic on its own, but you can easily elevate your meal by serving it with side dishes. Consider a quinoa or brown rice pilaf to absorb the delicious juices from the chicken and vegetables. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can also complement the dish, adding freshness and crunch.

For a heartier meal, serve the chicken on a bed of couscous or whole grain pasta. Adding a sprinkle of feta cheese on top can provide a creamy contrast and a burst of flavor, while toasted pine nuts can add a pleasant crunch. These additions not only diversify your meal but also increase the overall nutritional value.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw the chicken before cooking for even cooking.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add carrots, zucchini, asparagus, or even cherry tomatoes for a burst of flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prep the chicken and vegetables ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge until you're ready to cook.