One-Dish Baked Chicken and Veggies

If you’re looking for a hassle-free, flavorful, and healthy meal that comes together in one dish, you’re in the right place! This One-Dish Baked Chicken and Veggies recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients. With tender chicken breasts and vibrant vegetables, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, the clean-up is a breeze since everything bakes together on a single sheet pan. Let’s dive into why this recipe works and how to make it!

Why This Recipe Works

The beauty of this One-Dish Baked Chicken and Veggies lies in its simplicity. By using boneless and skinless chicken breasts, you ensure a lean protein source that cooks quickly and evenly. The addition of colorful veggies like zucchini, yellow squash, and cherry tomatoes not only enhances flavor but also adds a variety of textures. The fresh thyme and garlic infuse the dish with aromatic goodness, while the Parmesan cheese creates a golden crust that’s both savory and satisfying. It’s a meal that’s wholesome, delicious, and perfect for any day of the week!

Ingredient Notes

• Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless and skinless chicken breasts provide lean protein. Make sure to pound them to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
• Salt and Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon kosher or sea salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided, enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
• Eggs: 2 beaten eggs act as a binder for the Parmesan cheese, helping it stick to the chicken.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup freshly grated adds a rich, nutty flavor and creates a delightful crust.
• Zucchini and Yellow Squash: These medium-sized vegetables, sliced into quarters, provide color and nutrition.
• Garlic: 2 sliced garlic cloves add depth and aromatic flavor.
• Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup halved tomatoes bring sweetness and juiciness to the dish.
• Thyme: 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme) adds an earthy aroma.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil helps with roasting and adds healthy fats.

Equipment & Tools

• Sheet Pan: A large baking sheet is essential for roasting the chicken and veggies.
• Mixing Bowl: Use this for combining the eggs and Parmesan cheese.
• Knife: A sharp knife for slicing your vegetables and chicken.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the best flavor in your dish.

One-Dish Baked Chicken and Veggies, Made Easy

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting the chicken and vegetables to a tender and flavorful finish.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper on both sides. This step ensures that the chicken is well-seasoned before baking.

Step 3: Create the Coating

In a mixing bowl, combine the beaten eggs and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the eggs.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Dip each seasoned chicken breast into the egg and Parmesan mixture, making sure each piece is fully coated. This will create a delicious crust once baked.

Step 5: Prepare the Vegetables

While the chicken is being coated, slice the zucchini, yellow squash, and garlic. Halve the cherry tomatoes and set aside.

Step 6: Assemble in a Sheet Pan

On a large sheet pan, drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Spread the sliced zucchini, yellow squash, and garlic evenly across the pan. Add the halved cherry tomatoes on top.

Step 7: Place the Chicken

Nestle the coated chicken breasts among the vegetables on the sheet pan. Sprinkle the remaining salt, pepper, and fresh thyme leaves over everything for added flavor.

Step 8: Bake

Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The vegetables should be tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 9: Serve

Once cooked, remove the sheet pan from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This dish is perfect on its own or served with a side of rice or quinoa for an extra boost of carbs.

Substitutions by Diet

• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free; just ensure your Parmesan cheese is gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
• Low-Carb: Omit the tomatoes and serve with leafy greens instead of grains to keep it lower in carbs.
• Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like eggplant or portobello mushrooms, and increase the roasting time accordingly.

Errors to Dodge

• Overcrowding the Pan: Avoid placing too many ingredients on the sheet pan, as this can cause steaming instead of roasting.
• Not Preheating: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the dish inside to ensure even cooking.
• Using Cold Chicken: Allow the chicken to come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking throughout.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t skip on seasoning the chicken and vegetables; it’s key to enhancing the overall flavor.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

This One-Dish Baked Chicken and Veggies is perfect for meal prep! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also enjoy it cold over a salad for a refreshing lunch option. For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken and veggies in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

One-Dish Baked Chicken and Veggies FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

While you can use bone-in chicken, the cooking time will vary. Bone-in pieces generally take longer to cook, so adjust your baking time accordingly to ensure they reach a safe internal temperature.

What vegetables can I add or substitute?

You can customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables! Bell peppers, asparagus, broccoli, or carrots work beautifully. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you love a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha before serving. You can also marinate the chicken in a spicy sauce before coating it with the Parmesan.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the chicken and veggies the night before. Simply coat the chicken and chop the vegetables, then store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just assemble and bake as directed.

Try These Next

• Easy Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp
• Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
• One-Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta
• Roasted Vegetable Tacos

Wrap-Up

In conclusion, this One-Dish Baked Chicken and Veggies recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, you can enjoy a wholesome meal that satisfies both your taste buds and your nutritional needs. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds will thank you!