Easy Healthy Sheet Pan Chicken

Name: Easy Healthy Sheet Pan Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 red onion, cut into wedges; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Food Favorites

I love whipping up this Easy Healthy Sheet Pan Chicken on a busy weeknight. It’s one of those meals that comes together effortlessly and delivers on both flavor and nutrition. The blend of tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and aromatic herbs makes for a delightful dish that everyone in my family enjoys. Plus, the best part is that it all cooks on one pan, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor! If you’re looking for a simple yet satisfying meal, this recipe is for you.

Created by

Ottoline Reeves

Last updated on 2026-02-27T20:33:34.961Z

When I first attempted this recipe, I was pleasantly surprised by how the chicken came out juicy and flavorful, all thanks to the marination time. I usually let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if pressed for time, even 10 minutes makes a difference. Roasting it alongside fresh, seasonal vegetables enhances not just the taste but also the presentation, making it visually appealing.

Another tip that I've found invaluable is to use a separate sheet for veggies if you want them to get crispy; I often use different roasting times for different vegetables, allowing each to shine in its own right. It’s exciting to experiment with various veggies and spices, creating a new variation each time.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
One-pan convenience for easy cleanup
Packed with healthy veggies and lean protein
Versatile with endless flavor combinations
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy nights

Maximizing Flavor with Marinades

The marinade is crucial for infusing the chicken thighs with flavor and tenderness. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 10 minutes is essential, but if you have more time, extending that to 30 minutes amplifies the taste significantly. The combination of olive oil, garlic powder, and paprika not only enhances the chicken's flavor but also helps to keep it moist during roasting. If you're looking to customize, consider swapping the paprika for chili powder for a smoky kick or adding Italian herbs for a different profile.

As the chicken marinates, the acid from the lemon juice begins to break down the proteins in the meat, allowing it to absorb all those delicious flavors. Keep an eye on the chicken while marinating; longer marination is great, but be cautious not to exceed 2 hours, as the acidity could affect the meat's texture, making it too mushy.

Vegetable Prep and Roasting Tips

The variety of vegetables in this sheet pan dish not only adds color but also crucial nutrients. Broccoli provides fiber and vitamins C and K, while bell peppers add sweetness and antioxidants. When prepping the veggies, ensure they are cut into similar sizes—this promotes even cooking. A good tip is to consider roasting times for each. For instance, if you prefer slightly caramelized edges on your onions and bell pepper, you might want to add them halfway through the chicken's roasting time, allowing them to get that perfect char without burning.

For those who might prefer different veggies, you can easily substitute zucchini or asparagus, which will also work beautifully with this dish. Just be mindful of the cooking time; use quick-cooking veggies for better results, adding them later in the roasting process to avoid overcooking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Easy Healthy Sheet Pan Chicken:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2 cups broccoli florets
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 red onion, cut into wedges
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to prep your ingredients beforehand for an easy cooking experience.

Instructions

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

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it.

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated in the mixture. Allow them to marinate for at least 10-30 minutes.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the chicken is marinating, prepare the vegetables by placing the broccoli, bell pepper, and onion on the baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Combine and Roast

Push the vegetables to the sides of the pan and place the marinated chicken in the center. Roast everything in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.

Serve

Once cooked, remove from the oven. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your healthy, delicious meal!

Enjoy your meal with your favorite side dish or on its own!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different vegetables, such as zucchini or asparagus, to customize this recipe to your taste.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This recipe is fantastic for meal prepping! You can marinate the chicken and chop your vegetables ahead of time, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. On the day you plan to cook, just preheat your oven and proceed with roasting. This means less time in the kitchen on busy weeknights, making it a breeze to serve a nutritious meal.

If you have leftovers, they store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain that nice texture and warmth, avoiding the microwave if possible to prevent the chicken from drying out.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a complete meal, consider serving this dish over quinoa or brown rice, which will absorb the flavorful juices from the chicken and vegetables. If you're aiming for a low-carb option, try serving it alongside a fresh salad to balance the meal or even on a bed of cauliflower rice for a lighter take.

You can also tailor this recipe to the seasons by introducing seasonal vegetables. In the fall, root vegetables like sweet potatoes or carrots can add sweetness and heartiness, while in the summer, zucchini and cherry tomatoes can help keep it fresh and vibrant.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may require slightly less cooking time.

→ What other vegetables work well in this recipe?

Carrots, potatoes, or snap peas are great options to add variety.

→ How long can leftovers be stored?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and vegetables. Just make sure to store them in a freezer-safe container.