One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken & Veggies in 30 Minutes

Name: One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken & Veggies in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes

June 4, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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There’s something truly magical about a dish that combines simplicity with bold flavors, and my one-pan lemon garlic chicken & veggies is just that! Imagine succulent chicken thighs marinated in zesty lemon and fragrant garlic, perfectly complemented by a medley of vibrant vegetables. This dish not only brings an explosion of taste but also makes cleanup a breeze—who doesn’t love that? The best part? It all comes together in a single pan, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Trust me; the aroma that fills your kitchen as it roasts is nothing short of divine! So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into creating a meal that’s as delightful to eat as it is to prepare.

one-pan lemon garlic chicken & veggies - detail 1

Ingredients List

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups broccoli florets
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes

How to Prepare the One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken & Veggies

Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) is key! This ensures that your chicken and veggies cook evenly and get that lovely roasted flavor. While the oven warms up, take a moment to gather all your ingredients. I like to have everything laid out so I can move seamlessly through the steps. It makes the cooking process feel less chaotic and more enjoyable!

Marinating the Chicken

Next, let’s talk about marinating! In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. This marinade is where the magic happens—it infuses the chicken with bright, bold flavors. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, making sure they’re well-coated in that zesty mixture. I recommend letting them marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you’ve got time, a couple of hours (or even overnight in the fridge) will really amp up the flavor!

Searing the Chicken

Now onto one of my favorite parts: searing! Heat a little olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs and allow them to brown for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want that beautiful golden crust to form—it adds so much depth to the dish! Don’t rush this step; a good sear locks in all those delicious juices.

Arranging Vegetables

Once the chicken is beautifully browned, it’s time to add the veggies! Arrange the broccoli, bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes around the chicken in the skillet. Make sure not to crowd the pan; you want them to roast beautifully without steaming. Pour any remaining marinade over the veggies for extra flavor. It’s all about that vibrant color and texture—you’ll love how it looks!

Roasting in the Oven

Finally, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) when it’s done. I usually peek in around the 20-minute mark to check on the veggies and give them a little stir if needed. After roasting, let everything rest for about 5 minutes before serving—this allows the juices to redistribute and makes for a juicier bite. And there you have it, a beautiful one-pan meal that’s as satisfying to eat as it is to prepare!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pan Wonder: Cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in just one skillet—less time scrubbing, more time enjoying!
Bold Flavors: The combination of zesty lemon and aromatic garlic elevates the chicken and veggies to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with lean protein and vibrant vegetables, this dish is not just tasty but also nutritious, making it a perfect choice for any meal.
Quick to Prepare: With a total time of around an hour, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen.
Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables or add extra spices to suit your taste—it’s all about making it your own!
Family-Friendly: The delightful mix of flavors and colorful presentation makes it a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Variations

The beauty of the one-pan lemon garlic chicken & veggies is its versatility—there are countless ways to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand! Here are a few ideas to inspire your next culinary adventure:

Seasonal Vegetables: Feel free to swap in any seasonal veggies you love! Asparagus, green beans, or even Brussels sprouts make fantastic additions. Just remember to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
Herb Variations: If you’re a fan of fresh herbs, try adding some chopped rosemary, thyme, or parsley to the marinade for an aromatic twist. Fresh herbs can bring an entirely new layer of flavor.
Spicy Kick: For those who like a bit of heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the marinade. It’ll give your dish that extra zing without overwhelming the other flavors!
Citrus Twist: Want to take the citrus flavor up a notch? Add slices of orange or lime to the pan along with the lemon juice. The mix of citrus will create a lovely balance of sweetness and acidity.
Protein Swaps: While chicken thighs are my go-to, you can easily switch them out for chicken breasts, shrimp, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, especially for shrimp, which cooks much faster!
Grain Base: If you want to make this a heartier meal, consider serving it over a bed of quinoa, couscous, or rice. You can even add the grains to the pan during the last 10 minutes of roasting, along with some vegetable broth for extra flavor.

These variations allow you to make the dish your own while keeping that delightful lemon garlic essence intact. Don’t hesitate to experiment and find the perfect combination that suits your taste buds! Enjoy the journey of cooking and the delicious outcomes it brings!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving of my one-pan lemon garlic chicken & veggies. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes, but this should give you a good idea of what to expect:

Calories: 350
Protein: 30g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 250mg
Cholesterol: 90mg

This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a healthy balance of nutrients. It’s a great option for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious meal without the guilt!

Tips for Success

To ensure your one-pan lemon garlic chicken & veggies turns out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips that I swear by:

Don’t Skip the Marinade: The longer you let the chicken marinate, the more flavorful it will be. If you can, aim for a few hours or even overnight in the fridge. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking!
Use a Good Quality Olive Oil: The flavor of the oil can really enhance the dish, so choose a good extra virgin olive oil for drizzling and cooking. It adds richness and depth to the overall taste.
Check Your Oven’s Accuracy: Ovens can vary, so it’s a good idea to use an oven thermometer to make sure it’s at the right temperature. This will help with even cooking and browning.
Don’t Crowd the Pan: If you’re using a smaller skillet, it’s better to cook in batches than to overcrowd. This allows the vegetables to roast rather than steam, which brings out their natural sweetness and texture.
Vegetable Variety: Feel free to mix and match your vegetables based on what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that harder vegetables like carrots or potatoes will need a longer roasting time than softer ones like zucchini or cherry tomatoes.
Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfect chicken every time, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This takes the guesswork out of cooking!
Let It Rest: After you take the skillet out of the oven, don’t skip the resting period! Allowing the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes helps the juices redistribute, making every bite extra juicy and tender.
Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, they can be repurposed in salads, wraps, or grain bowls the next day. Just reheat gently to avoid drying them out.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re well on your way to creating a stunning and delicious one-pan meal that’ll impress anyone at your table. Happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up your delicious one-pan lemon garlic chicken & veggies, let’s talk about how to elevate your meal even further! Pairing this dish with the right sides can really enhance the experience and make it a complete feast.

Couscous or Quinoa: A fluffy bed of couscous or quinoa is perfect for soaking up all those lovely juices from the chicken and veggies. Plus, they add a nice nutty flavor and texture that complements the dish beautifully.
Garlic Bread: If you’re a garlic lover like me, serve some crusty garlic bread on the side. It’s fantastic for mopping up any leftover marinade on your plate—trust me, you won’t want to waste a drop!
Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the roasted flavors of the chicken and veggies. You can even toss in some avocado for creaminess!
Roasted Potatoes: For those who crave a little extra comfort, some roasted baby potatoes seasoned with herbs can be a delightful addition. They’re hearty, satisfying, and pair perfectly with the bright lemon flavors.
Steamed Asparagus: If you want to keep it light and healthy, steamed asparagus tossed with a bit of olive oil and lemon zest makes for a lovely green side that’s quick and easy to prepare.
Herbed Rice: A side of herbed rice, infused with fresh parsley or cilantro, can add a fragrant touch and is another great option for soaking up flavors.
Wine Pairing: Don’t forget about the drink! A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir would complement the dish beautifully and enhance the overall dining experience.

These suggestions will help round out your meal and impress your guests (or just yourself!). Mix and match based on your cravings or what you have on hand, and enjoy a delightful dining experience that showcases your amazing cooking skills!

FAQ Section

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While I love the richness of chicken thighs, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work perfectly too. Just keep in mind that they may cook a bit faster, so check for doneness early.

What other vegetables can I use in this one-pan lemon garlic chicken & veggies?
Great question! You can swap in any seasonal vegetables you enjoy. Think asparagus, green beans, or even sweet potatoes. Just remember to cut them to similar sizes for even cooking.

How can I make this dish spicier?
If you love a bit of heat, try adding red pepper flakes to the marinade or even some diced jalapeños. It’ll give your dish an exciting kick without overpowering the lovely lemon and garlic flavors!

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just let it come to room temperature before cooking. However, I recommend cooking the dish fresh for the best texture and flavor.

What should I serve with the one-pan lemon garlic chicken & veggies?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of couscous, quinoa, or even a simple green salad. Garlic bread is also a fantastic option for scooping up those delicious juices!

How do I know when the chicken is done?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have one, simply cut into the thickest part; it should be opaque and the juices should run clear.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the chicken juicy.

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.