One Pan Easy Healthy Dinner Chicken

Name: One Pan Easy Healthy Dinner Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (any color); 1 medium onion, sliced; Cooked brown rice or quinoa (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Favorites

I love creating meals that are not only delicious but also easy to prepare, and this One Pan Easy Healthy Dinner Chicken is a perfect example. In just 30 minutes, you can have a wholesome and flavorful meal ready that satisfies the whole family. The best part? It only requires one pan, making cleanup a breeze. With fresh vegetables and succulent chicken paired with a savory marinade, this dish has quickly become a staple in our weeknight dinner rotation. I think you'll love it as much as we do!

Created by

Esme Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-02-24T03:49:36.155Z

When I made this One Pan Easy Healthy Dinner Chicken for the first time, I was amazed by how simple yet satisfying it was. The chicken cooks perfectly with the vegetables, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully. I recommend marinating the chicken for at least 15 minutes for deeper flavor. It's worth the wait!

Another thing I've learned is to use a heavy-bottomed pan to ensure even cooking. The vibrant colors of the bell peppers and broccoli add not just nutrition but also a visual appeal that makes it restaurant-worthy right at home. Trust me, once you try this dish, it'll become your go-to weeknight meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Healthy ingredients packed with nutrients
One pan means easy cleanup and efficiency
Flavorful blend of spices elevates the dish

Perfecting the Marinade

The marinade is the key to delivering robust flavor in this dish. Olive oil serves as the base, helping to tenderize the chicken while allowing the spices to adhere. Garlic powder adds depth, while paprika brings a hint of smokiness and vibrant color. For added zest, consider incorporating lemon juice or balsamic vinegar, which not only enhances flavor but also helps tenderize the chicken. I suggest allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes, but for an even bolder taste, you can let it sit for an hour in the fridge.

Another hallmark of this recipe is its flexibility when it comes to seasonings. If you’re looking to spice things up, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a kick. For a hint of sweetness, a sprinkle of brown sugar can balance out the savory notes. Remember, the longer the chicken marinates, the more pronounced these flavors will be in your finished dish.

Cooking Techniques for Success

When searing the chicken, ensure your pan is adequately heated before adding the chicken. A hot pan helps in creating a beautiful golden crust, which is essential for flavor and texture. If you're unsure, you can test the heat by flicking a few drops of water into the pan; they should sizzle immediately. Searing for 5-6 minutes on each side will help seal in juices and give a perfect golden exterior. Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the temperature and lead to steaming rather than searing.

Once you introduce the vegetables, it's vital to monitor their cooking time. The goal is to achieve crisp-tender vegetables, which should be ready in about 10-12 minutes. Stir gently but regularly to ensure even cooking. Under-cooking the vegetables slightly will contribute to a delightful contrast in textures when paired with juicy chicken, enhancing the overall experience of this one-pan meal.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To transform this dish into a complete meal, serving it over cooked brown rice or quinoa will add a wholesome element. Both options allow for a delightful chewy texture that pairs beautifully with the tender chicken and crisp vegetables. If you prefer a lighter option, consider serving it over a bed of mixed greens or alongside a fresh salad, bringing brightness and an extra crunch to your plate.

For those looking to switch things up, the vegetables can easily be customized based on what you have on hand. Feel free to substitute with zucchini, asparagus, or even snap peas. Additionally, changing the protein is a breeze—try using chicken thighs for a richer flavor, or even shrimp, adjusting the cooking time accordingly. This recipe adapts wonderfully, making it a versatile choice for various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

For the Chicken and Vegetables

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup bell peppers, sliced (any color)
1 medium onion, sliced

For Serving

Cooked brown rice or quinoa (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Instructions:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and ensure they are well coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Prepare the Pan

Heat a large, heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken breasts and sear for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Add Vegetables

Once the chicken is browned, add broccoli, bell peppers, and sliced onion to the pan. Stir gently to combine and cook for another 10-12 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is cooked through.

Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm over brown rice or quinoa if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding lemon juice or your favorite herbs during the cooking process. You can also use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand for this recipe.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This One Pan Easy Healthy Dinner Chicken is perfect for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken a day in advance, storing it covered in the refrigerator. This not only saves time during your busy weeknight but also infuses the chicken with even more flavor. Once cooked, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great option for lunch the next day.

If you're looking to store this dish for longer, consider freezing the cooked chicken and vegetables. Simply let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake when preparing this dish is underestimating the cooking time for the chicken. Ensure your chicken breasts reach an internal temperature of 165°F, using a meat thermometer for accuracy. Cutting into the chicken before it's fully cooked can lead to juice loss, resulting in drier meat. It's best to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist and flavorful.

Another pitfall is neglecting to adjust seasonings based on personal taste. If you find your dish lacks flavor, consider adding a touch more salt or a splash of vinegar before serving. Taste testing as you go can help you adjust to your liking, ensuring that every bite is deliciously satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It’s best to use thawed, fresh chicken for even cooking and better flavor. However, if using frozen, make sure to thaw it first.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to include vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or snap peas. They all complement chicken nicely!

→ How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure it's safe to eat.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook it ahead of time and reheat it. It also stores well in the fridge for up to three days.