Name: Easy Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes; 4 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp dried oregano; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional); Salt to taste; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; 1 large red onion, cut into wedges; 2 bell peppers (any color), cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 lb baby potatoes, halved or quartered; 1 lb broccoli florets; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner Easy Recipe One Pan Cleanup – doesn’t that just sound like a dream come true after a long day? I know for me, finding delicious, wholesome meals that don’t involve a mountain of dishes is always a top priority. And that’s exactly what I’m thrilled to share with you today.

There’s a beautiful simplicity to the sheet pan dinner concept, a modern culinary marvel that speaks directly to our busy lives. It’s not about ancient traditions, but rather the ingenious evolution of home cooking, perfectly adapted for today’s families who crave both nutrition and convenience. Imagine succulent, perfectly seasoned chicken mingling with vibrant, tender-crisp vegetables, all roasted together on a single tray, infusing every bite with incredible flavor and minimal fuss.

People absolutely adore this type of meal for countless reasons. Firstly, the taste is undeniable – the high heat of the oven caramelizes the vegetables and crisps the chicken skin just right, creating layers of delightful texture and robust flavor. Secondly, and perhaps most importantly, the convenience is unparalleled. The sheer joy of serving a complete, balanced meal with minimal active cooking time and, yes, that glorious “one pan cleanup” aspect, transforms dinner from a chore into a genuinely enjoyable experience. This specific Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner Easy Recipe One Pan Cleanup delivers on every promise, making it a weeknight hero in my kitchen, and I’m confident it will become one in yours too.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:
- 1.5 – 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch to 1.5-inch pieces. I personally love using thighs for their extra juiciness and flavor, but breasts work beautifully too!
For the Vegetables:
- 1.5 pounds small red or yellow potatoes, scrubbed clean and cut into 1-inch chunks. Try to make them as uniform as possible so they cook evenly.
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets. Don’t discard the stem! If it’s tender, peel it and chop it into coins – it’s delicious roasted.
- 2 bell peppers (any color, I often use one red and one yellow for visual appeal), deseeded and cut into 1-inch strips or chunks.
- 1 large red onion, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges or thick slices. The sweetness of roasted red onion is truly wonderful.
- Optional: 1 cup cherry tomatoes, added during the last 10-15 minutes of roasting for a burst of fresh flavor.
For the Lemon Herb Marinade & Seasoning:
- 1/4 cup olive oil, good quality extra virgin olive oil if you have it.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from about 1 medium lemon).
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from the same lemon – we want all that bright citrus flavor!).
- 2 cloves garlic, minced finely or pressed.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano. If you have fresh, use 1 tablespoon, chopped.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme. Again, if fresh, use 1 tablespoon, chopped.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (this adds a lovely depth and subtle smokiness).
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick!).
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste. Remember, seasoning is key!
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste.
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish after cooking. This really brightens up the dish.

Equipment You’ll Need:

Having the right tools makes any cooking endeavor smoother, especially for a fantastic Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner Easy Recipe One Pan Cleanup like this!

Two large rimmed baking sheets (13×18 inches is ideal). Using two sheets prevents overcrowding, which is crucial for properly roasted, rather than steamed, vegetables and chicken.
Large mixing bowls (at least two).

Cutting board and a sharp knife.
Measuring spoons and cups.
Zester and citrus juicer.

Aluminum foil or parchment paper (for easier cleanup, though not strictly necessary).

Preparing Our Flavorful Marinade:

This is where we infuse our chicken and veggies with incredible taste! Don’t rush this step, as the marinade is the heart of our dish.

Grab a medium-sized mixing bowl. Into this bowl, we’re going to combine all the wonderful components for our marinade.
Pour in the 1/4 cup of olive oil. I always recommend a good quality olive oil here, as its flavor really shines through.
Add the fresh lemon juice and the bright lemon zest. The zest provides intense citrus oils that add more aroma and flavor than juice alone, so don’t skip it!

Toss in the finely minced garlic. If you love garlic as much as I do, feel free to add an extra clove or two – you won’t regret it.
Now for the herbs and spices: add the dried oregano, dried thyme, smoked paprika, and if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, the red pepper flakes.
Season with the kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Remember, this marinade needs to season a lot of ingredients, so be generous but mindful.

Whisk everything together thoroughly until well combined. You’ll notice a beautiful, aromatic mixture forming. Give it a little sniff – isn’t that wonderful? Set this aside for a moment while we prep our main ingredients.

Prepping the Chicken and Vegetables:

Uniformity in cutting is key here for even cooking. This step ensures everything cooks through at roughly the same time, leading to perfectly tender chicken and roasted, caramelized vegetables, making this Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner Easy Recipe One Pan Cleanup truly shine.

Preheat Your Oven: First things first, let’s get that oven ready! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s piping hot when your sheet pans go in, giving us that lovely char and crispness.
Prepare the Sheet Pans: While the oven is heating, line your two large rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This is my secret weapon for the “one pan cleanup” promise. If you use foil, spray it lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step! Removing excess moisture allows the chicken to sear and brown beautifully in the oven, rather than steam. Place the dried chicken pieces into a large mixing bowl.

Marinate the Chicken: Pour about half of the prepared lemon herb marinade over the chicken in the bowl. Toss thoroughly to ensure every piece is evenly coated. You can use your hands for this – just make sure they’re clean! Let it sit for at least 10-15 minutes while you chop the vegetables, or you can even do this ahead of time and let it marinate in the fridge for up to 30 minutes for deeper flavor. However, for this quick recipe, 10-15 minutes is perfectly fine.
Prepare the Potatoes: Wash the potatoes thoroughly. Cut them into roughly 1-inch chunks. Remember, consistency in size is important here so they all cook through at the same rate. Place the cut potatoes into a separate large mixing bowl.
Prepare the Broccoli: Wash and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. As mentioned, if the stem is tender, peel and slice it into coins to add to the mix. Add the broccoli to the bowl with the potatoes.

Prepare the Bell Peppers: Deseed the bell peppers and cut them into 1-inch strips or chunks. Add these to the bowl with the potatoes and broccoli.
Prepare the Red Onion: Peel the red onion and cut it into 1-inch wedges or thick slices. Separate the layers a bit if they’re stuck together. Add the onion to the vegetable bowl.
Season the Vegetables: Pour the remaining half of the lemon herb marinade over all the prepared vegetables in their bowl. Toss everything together very well, ensuring all the veggies are coated with that delicious marinade. Don’t be shy about getting your hands in there to mix thoroughly!

Arranging and Roasting for Perfection:

This is where the magic happens and our ingredients transform into a delicious, wholesome meal with minimal fuss. Proper arrangement is vital for a truly successful Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner Easy Recipe One Pan Cleanup.

Divide and Conquer: Evenly divide the marinated chicken pieces between your two prepared baking sheets. Spread them out in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t crowded. Giving the chicken space allows it to roast rather than steam.

Arrange the Vegetables: Now, evenly distribute the marinated vegetables between the two baking sheets, around the chicken. Again, spread them out in a single layer. This step is critical for good roasting! If your pan is too crowded, the vegetables will steam instead of caramelize and crisp up, and we want that lovely roasted texture. It’s better to use two pans than to overcrowd one.
Initial Roast: Carefully place both baking sheets into your preheated 400°F (200°C) oven. Roast for 15 minutes.
Flip and Continue Roasting: After 15 minutes, remove the sheets from the oven. Using a spatula, flip the chicken pieces and gently toss the vegetables on both pans to ensure even cooking and browning on all sides.

Add Optional Cherry Tomatoes (if using): If you decided to include cherry tomatoes, now is the perfect time to scatter them over the vegetables on both pans.
Final Roast: Return the baking sheets to the oven and continue roasting for another 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C) and the vegetables are tender-crisp and nicely caramelized with some browned edges. The exact cooking time will depend on your oven and how small you cut your ingredients. Keep an eye on it during these last few minutes.
Check for Doneness: The potatoes should be easily pierced with a fork, and the chicken should show no pinkness inside. If you have a meat thermometer, insert it into the thickest part of a chicken piece – it should read 165°F (74°C).

Rest Before Serving: Once everything is perfectly roasted, carefully remove the baking sheets from the oven. Let the chicken and vegetables rest on the sheets for about 5 minutes. This allows the chicken juices to redistribute, ensuring it’s as tender and flavorful as possible.

Serving Suggestions and Enjoying Your Easy Meal:

Your beautiful Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner Easy Recipe One Pan Cleanup is ready to be devoured! Here are some ideas to make it even more special.

Garnish Generously: Before serving, sprinkle a generous amount of fresh chopped parsley or cilantro over the entire dish. This adds a burst of fresh color and herbaceous flavor that brightens everything up.
A Squeeze of Fresh Lemon: A final squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top just before eating can really enhance the flavors and add an extra layer of zing.
Pair with a Grain: While this dish is a complete meal on its own, it pairs wonderfully with a simple side of quinoa, brown rice, or couscous if you’re looking for extra carbohydrates.

A Simple Salad: A light, crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing can be a lovely counterpoint to the rich roasted flavors.
Yogurt Dip: A dollop of plain Greek yogurt mixed with a little fresh dill, garlic powder, and a squeeze of lemon juice makes a refreshing and creamy dip for the chicken and veggies.
Hot Sauce Lover? For those who love a little extra heat, a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce can take this dish to another level.

Transfer the roasted chicken and vegetables directly from the sheet pan to plates. The beauty of this dish is that everything is cooked together, minimizing dishes and maximizing flavor. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of your homemade sheet pan masterpiece!

Tips for the Best Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner Every Time:

Achieving a consistently perfect Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner Easy Recipe One Pan Cleanup is all about understanding a few key principles. These tips will help you elevate your meal from good to absolutely fantastic!

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan!
This is arguably the most important tip. If you pack too many ingredients onto one baking sheet, they will steam rather than roast. Steamed food tends to be less flavorful and lacks that appealing caramelized, slightly crispy exterior. If you have a lot of chicken and vegetables, always use two sheet pans. It’s better to do two batches than to sacrifice the texture.
Cut for Uniformity:
Ensure your chicken pieces and all your vegetables are cut into roughly similar sizes. This is crucial for even cooking. Potatoes, for instance, take longer to cook than broccoli. If your potato chunks are significantly larger than your broccoli florets, one will be overcooked while the other is undercooked. Aim for pieces that are approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in size.
High Heat is Your Friend:
Roasting at a relatively high temperature (like 400°F/200°C) is key to getting that lovely browning and caramelization on your vegetables and a nice golden crust on your chicken. Don’t be tempted to use a lower temperature, as it won’t achieve the desired texture.

Pat Your Chicken Dry:
Before adding the marinade, always pat your chicken pieces thoroughly dry with paper towels. Excess moisture on the surface of the chicken will prevent it from browning and crisping up, leading to a less appealing texture.
Consider Cooking Times for Vegetables:
If you’re using vegetables that have vastly different cooking times (e.g., dense root vegetables like sweet potatoes vs. quick-cooking vegetables like zucchini or asparagus), you might need to add them to the pan at different stages. For this specific recipe, our chosen veggies (potatoes, broccoli, bell peppers, onions) cook well together. If you wanted to add faster-cooking items, introduce them during the last 10-15 minutes of roasting.
Season Generously:
Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper, especially when seasoning the vegetables. Roasting can mellow out flavors, so a good initial seasoning will ensure your dish tastes vibrant and delicious.

Parchment Paper or Foil for Easy Cleanup:
As mentioned in the equipment section, lining your sheet pans with parchment paper or aluminum foil is a game-changer for cleanup. It turns “one pan cleanup” into “no scrubbing cleanup,” which is always a win in my book!
Customization is Encouraged!
This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Carrots, zucchini, green beans, or even brussels sprouts work wonderfully. Experiment with different herbs and spices too! A touch of rosemary, sage, or even a sprinkle of curry powder can create a whole new flavor profile.

Storage and Reheating:

One of the many great things about this Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner Easy Recipe One Pan Cleanup is how well it holds up for leftovers, making it perfect for meal prep!

Storage:
Once cooled to room temperature, transfer any leftover chicken and vegetables to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. I often make a slightly larger batch specifically for lunches throughout the week!
Reheating in the Oven:
For the best results, I recommend reheating in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the leftovers in a single layer on a baking sheet. Heat for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and the chicken and vegetables regain some of their crispness. This method prevents the chicken from drying out too much and the vegetables from getting mushy.
Reheating in the Microwave:
If you’re short on time, the microwave works too! Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until thoroughly warmed. Be aware that the vegetables might lose some of their crisp texture with this method.

Why We Love This One-Pan Cleanup Wonder:

There’s a reason why the Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner Easy Recipe One Pan Cleanup has become such a beloved staple in so many households, including mine! It’s more than just a meal; it’s a lifestyle choice for busy weeknights and relaxed weekends.

Unbeatable Convenience:
From minimal chopping to the hands-off cooking time in the oven, this recipe is designed for maximum ease. You can get other things done while your dinner bakes to perfection.
The Promise of One Pan Cleanup (or two!):
This is truly the ultimate selling point for me. With just a couple of mixing bowls and a lined baking sheet (or two!), the dreaded post-dinner dishwashing chore becomes incredibly simple. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want a delicious homemade meal without the endless scrubbing.

Nutritionally Balanced:
This dish offers a fantastic balance of lean protein from the chicken, complex carbohydrates and fiber from the potatoes, and a rainbow of vitamins and minerals from all those vibrant vegetables. It’s a complete meal that you can feel good about eating.
Incredible Flavor Development:
Roasting at a high temperature brings out the natural sweetness in the vegetables, creating delightful caramelized edges. The chicken stays tender and juicy, absorbing all the wonderful flavors of the lemon herb marinade. Every bite is a burst of deliciousness!
Endless Customization:
As I mentioned, this recipe is incredibly adaptable. It acts as a perfect canvas for your culinary creativity. Want to try different spices? Go for it! Have other veggies in the fridge? Toss them in! It’s a recipe that grows with your tastes and what’s available.

Family-Friendly:
It’s a meal that generally appeals to a wide range of palates, making it a fantastic option for families. Plus, everyone gets to enjoy the same delicious, wholesome food.

So, there you have it – a truly simple, incredibly flavorful, and wonderfully convenient meal. I hope you enjoy making (and eating!) this fantastic Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner Easy Recipe One Pan Cleanup as much as I do. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

And there you have it, my friends – the grand finale of our culinary journey for what I genuinely believe will become a cherished staple in your home. You’ve just walked through a comprehensive guide to a dish that promises not just a meal, but an experience of ease, incredible flavor, and surprising versatility. If there’s one dish that I absolutely insist you add to your weekly rotation, especially on those busy weeknights when time is a luxury and a mountain of dirty dishes feels like an insurmountable obstacle, it’s this one. This particular Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner Easy Recipe One Pan Cleanup is not just a catchy name; it’s a promise delivered on every single count, and I’m incredibly excited for you to experience the magic for yourself.

Why is this recipe an absolute game-changer and a non-negotiable must-try? Let me count the ways. First and foremost, it’s the sheer simplicity of it all. Imagine chopping a few fresh ingredients, tossing them with some glorious seasoning, spreading them out on a single pan, and letting your oven do all the heavy lifting. The aroma that will fill your kitchen as everything roasts to perfection is, in itself, a reward. But the real triumph, the one that makes me genuinely enthusiastic, is the minimal cleanup. Forget pots, pans, and multiple serving dishes; we’re talking about one sheet pan, maybe a mixing bowl, and that’s practically it. This means more time for you to relax, unwind, or spend quality moments with loved ones, rather than scrubbing away at baked-on food. It’s a truly liberating feeling to finish a delicious, home-cooked meal and realize the kitchen is already practically clean.

Unlock Endless Flavor Variations:

But the beauty of this dish extends far beyond its convenience. The flavor profile you can achieve is simply outstanding. The high heat of the oven caramelizes the natural sugars in your vegetables and crisps up the chicken skin just beautifully, locking in juices and creating those coveted browned bits that are pure culinary gold. And the best part? It’s infinitely adaptable! While our core recipe provides a fantastic foundation, consider this your canvas for endless creative culinary expression. For instance, try swapping out the root vegetables for seasonal alternatives: think asparagus and cherry tomatoes in the spring, or zucchini and bell peppers in the summer. Want to switch up the spices? A sprinkle of smoked paprika and cumin can transport you to a Tex-Mex fiesta, while dried oregano and basil will give you lovely Mediterranean vibes. A dash of red pepper flakes adds a welcome kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different marinades too; a quick soy-ginger or lemon-garlic marinade can add a whole new dimension of taste without adding extra steps to your process. This recipe truly is a culinary chameleon, ready to adapt to whatever your palate desires or whatever fresh produce you have on hand.

Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Meal:

Once your masterpiece emerges from the oven, glistening and fragrant, how best to enjoy it? While it’s absolutely perfect as a stand-alone meal, there are many ways to complement and elevate your dining experience. Serve it alongside a fluffy bed of quinoa or couscous to soak up all those delicious pan juices. A simple side salad, dressed with a light vinaigrette, provides a refreshing contrast to the rich roasted flavors. For a heartier meal, a dollop of creamy mashed potatoes or a slice of warm, crusty bread is always a welcome addition. If you’re focusing on lower carbs, a side of cauliflower rice or even just an extra serving of roasted green beans makes for a satisfying and healthy option. For a final flourish, a sprinkle of fresh chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro can brighten the flavors and add a pop of color, making your dish not just taste amazing, but look incredibly appetizing too.

So, what are you waiting for? I wholeheartedly encourage you to roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and give this incredible recipe a try this week. Experience the joy of a truly delicious, healthy meal that comes with minimal fuss and, most importantly, that coveted minimal cleanup. I genuinely can’t wait to hear about your culinary adventures with this dish. Did you add a secret ingredient that transformed it? Did you pair it with a surprising side that made it even better? Please, come back and share your experiences, your modifications, and your triumphs in the comments section below. Let’s build a community of enthusiastic home cooks who love delicious, hassle-free meals. Happy cooking, and bon appétit!