Easy Healthy Sheet Pan Chicken

Name: Easy Healthy Sheet Pan Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 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 bell pepper, sliced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 red onion, sliced; 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs

Highlighted under: Smart Kitchen

When I need a quick and nutritious meal, Easy Healthy Sheet Pan Chicken becomes my go-to recipe. It’s not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor. I love the ease of tossing everything onto a sheet pan, allowing me to relax while dinner bakes away. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs results in a satisfying dish that doesn’t require much effort. It’s perfect for busy weekdays or whenever I want something healthy without the fuss.

Created by

Gemma Hollis

Last updated on 2026-02-27T13:25:35.406Z

During one of my busy weeknights, I discovered the joy of sheet pan cooking. I combined fresh vegetables with juicy chicken breasts, drizzled everything with olive oil, and seasoned it simply with salt and pepper. The result was a delightful meal that not only saved me time but also let me enjoy a burst of colors right on my plate.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. Depending on what I have on hand, I can easily swap vegetables or change up the spices to mix things up. It's a great way to use up leftover veggies and keep meals exciting!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A balanced meal in one pan with minimal cleanup.
Juicy chicken and bright veggies, bursting with flavor.
Quick and healthy, perfect for busy weeknights.

Maximizing Flavor with Marinades

For an extra burst of flavor, consider marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes before cooking. A simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, and paprika not only enhances the chicken's taste but also helps tenderize it. By letting the chicken sit in the marinade, the spices penetrate deeper, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful dish. If you're short on time, even a 10-minute soak can make a difference.

Another fantastic option is to add a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of balsamic vinegar to your marinade. These acids can brighten the dish and balance the richness of the chicken, making each bite more refreshing. Just remember to adjust the salt if you add any acidic ingredients, as they can alter the marinade's overall flavor profile.

Vegetable Variations for the Sheet Pan

While this recipe calls for broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion, feel free to get creative with your vegetable choices. Asparagus, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts also work beautifully. Just make sure to cut the vegetables into similar sizes to ensure even cooking. For heartier veggies, like sweet potatoes, consider par-cooking them in the microwave for a few minutes before baking to ensure everything is ready at the same time.

Don't forget about the herbs! Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can add a fragrant aroma and elevates the dish even further. Toss them in with the vegetables just before baking for a vibrant flavor addition. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before serving.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to get started!

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Vegetables

2 cups broccoli florets
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 red onion, sliced
1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your sheet pan dinner!

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

Prepare the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated.

Prepare the Vegetables

In another bowl, combine the broccoli, bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and the dried Italian herbs.

Arrange on Sheet Pan

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the center of the prepared sheet pan. Distribute the vegetables around the chicken.

Bake

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

Serve

Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken and serve it alongside the roasted vegetables.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken a few hours in advance. Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables based on what you have available.

Storage Tips

If you're planning to enjoy leftovers, store the chicken and vegetables in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This prevents the chicken from becoming dry while keeping the veggies crisp.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked dish. Simply let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It will last for about 2-3 months. When ready to eat, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven to restore some of the original texture.

Scaling the Recipe

This sheet pan chicken recipe is easily scalable; whether you need to serve a small family or a crowd, simply adjust the amount of chicken and vegetables accordingly. Just be mindful of spacing when arranging them on the sheet pan. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting, resulting in less flavorful and soggy vegetables.

If you're cooking for a larger group, consider using multiple sheet pans. This allows for better air circulation around the chicken and vegetables, ensuring everything cooks evenly and develops that desirable roasted flavor and texture. Just rotate the pans halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time. Ensure the chicken is fully thawed for even cooking.

→ What other vegetables can I include?

You can add carrots, asparagus, or even sweet potatoes for variety.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the vegetables ahead of time, storing them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake.

→ Is it suitable for meal prepping?

Yes! This dish is great for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days.