Let me tell you, this one pan 20 minute lemon herb chicken veggies recipe is a total lifesaver for my busy weeknights! I mean, who doesn’t love a meal that’s not only quick to whip up but also bursting with fresh flavors? The zing of lemon combined with the savory herbs is just magic. Plus, everything cooks together in one pan, which means less cleanup—yay! I often find myself making this dish when I’m pressed for time but still want something healthy and satisfying. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become your go-to for those hectic evenings when all you want is a delicious dinner without the fuss!
Ingredients for One Pan 20 Minute Lemon Herb Chicken Veggies
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to this delicious meal! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless, about 6-8 ounces each)
- 1 lemon (juiced and zested for that bright, zesty flavor)
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (I love using bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli, but feel free to mix it up!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin is my go-to for flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (adds a lovely herbal note)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for that subtle garlic goodness)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t skimp on this part—seasoning is key!)
These ingredients come together so beautifully, and I promise you’ll love the fresh, vibrant flavors in each bite. Plus, having everything prepped and ready makes the cooking process smooth and stress-free!
How to Prepare One Pan 20 Minute Lemon Herb Chicken Veggies
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Trust me, this step is super important! Preheating ensures your chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden color we all crave. So, while you prepare the other ingredients, let that oven work its magic!
Prepare the Lemon Herb Marinade
Now, let’s whip up that delicious lemon herb marinade. In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. The zest really amps up the flavor, so don’t skip it! Add in the dried oregano, garlic powder, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Give it a good whisk until everything’s well combined. It should smell absolutely divine—just wait until you taste it!
Assemble the Dish
Time to bring it all together! Grab a baking dish and place your chicken breasts in the center. Pour that luscious lemon herb marinade over the chicken, making sure to coat it well. Then, add your mixed vegetables around the chicken—this is where you can really get creative! Toss those veggies in the marinade to give them a flavor boost. Seriously, it’s all about that flavor harmony!
Bake and Serve
Pop the dish into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on the chicken; it’s done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once it’s cooked through, take it out and let it rest for a minute before serving. This one-pan wonder is perfect served hot, and I can’t wait for you to enjoy it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights.
- One Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in one pan, meaning less cleanup and more time to relax after dinner.
- Bright and Flavorful: The combination of lemon and fresh herbs makes every bite burst with flavor.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and colorful veggies, it’s a nutritious meal that keeps you feeling great.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or herbs to make it your own!
- Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the delicious flavors—and you can sneak in those veggies without a fuss!
Tips for Success
Ready to take your one pan 20 minute lemon herb chicken veggies to the next level? Here are some of my top tips to ensure you get the best results every time:
- Check the Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your chicken. It should reach 165°F (75°C) to be perfectly cooked and safe to eat. This way, you’ll avoid any guesswork!
- Season to Taste: Don’t be shy with your seasonings! Start with the recommended amounts, but feel free to adjust based on your taste. Add a pinch more salt or a sprinkle of extra garlic powder if you want a flavor boost!
- Veggie Variations: Mix and match your vegetables! If you have some asparagus, green beans, or even cherry tomatoes lying around, toss them in! Just keep in mind that denser veggies like carrots might need a little more time to cook.
- Let it Rest: Once your chicken is done baking, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy and flavorful. Trust me, you’ll notice the difference!
- Meal Prep Magic: If you’re short on time during the week, consider prepping your marinade and chopping your veggies ahead of time. Just store everything in the fridge and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go in no time!
- Serve with Sides: For a more filling dinner, pair your chicken and veggies with a side of rice or quinoa. It adds a nice touch and makes the meal even more satisfying!
With these tips, you’ll be a pro at making this quick and tasty dish in no time. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to a quick meal, it’s nice to know that you’re also fueling your body with nutritious ingredients! Here are the estimated nutritional values for one serving of this one pan 20 minute lemon herb chicken veggies:
- Calories: Approximately 400
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 80mg
These values are estimates and may vary based on the specific ingredients you use, so feel free to adjust based on your dietary needs. Knowing that you’re enjoying a meal that’s not only delicious but also packed with protein and veggies makes it all the more satisfying, don’t you think?
FAQ About One Pan 20 Minute Lemon Herb Chicken Veggies
Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely! One of the best things about this one pan 20 minute lemon herb chicken veggies recipe is its versatility. You can swap in any of your favorite vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Try adding asparagus, green beans, or even some cherry tomatoes for a pop of color. Just keep in mind that different veggies may cook at different rates, so you might want to adjust the cooking time slightly for denser options like carrots or potatoes.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Great question! To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, you should check its internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (75°C) to be safe to eat. But there are also visual cues to look for: the chicken should be no longer pink in the center and the juices should run clear. If you’re unsure, better to double-check it just to be safe!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken and chop your veggies ahead of time, then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Just remember to keep the marinade and chicken separate until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply toss everything together and pop it in the oven! It’s a fantastic way to streamline your weeknight dinners!
Suggested Serving Ideas
Once you’ve made this delicious one pan 20 minute lemon herb chicken veggies, you might be wondering what to serve alongside it for a complete meal. Here are some of my favorite options that pair perfectly:
- Rice: A fluffy bed of white or brown rice is always a great choice. It soaks up that zesty lemon marinade beautifully!
- Quinoa: For a protein-packed alternative, try serving the chicken and veggies over quinoa. It adds a nutty flavor and makes the meal even more nutritious.
- Cauliflower Rice: If you’re looking for a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is a fantastic substitute. It’s light and complements the dish nicely.
- Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for sopping up any extra juices. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on that flavor!
- Side Salad: A refreshing side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a nice crunch and balances the meal.
- Roasted Potatoes: If you want something heartier, roasted potatoes tossed in a bit of olive oil and herbs can make for a comforting side dish.
Mix and match these options based on your cravings and dietary preferences. Each one adds a little something special to your meal, and I can promise you’ll be delighted with whatever you choose!
Print
One Pan 20 Minute Lemon Herb Chicken Veggies for Busy Nights
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Quick and easy one pan lemon herb chicken with vegetables, ready in 20 minutes.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, broccoli)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the lemon herb mixture over them.
- Add mixed vegetables around the chicken.
- Toss the vegetables in the marinade to coat.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Serve hot and enjoy your meal.
Notes
- Adjust the vegetables based on your preference.
- Ensure chicken is fully cooked before serving.
- Can serve with rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: one pan, lemon herb, chicken, veggies, quick meal
