One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken

Name: One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 lemons (zested and juiced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (chopped); 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (chopped); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 bell pepper (sliced); 1 cup cherry tomatoes; 1 onion (sliced)

Highlighted under: Fast Dinner Recipes

I absolutely love making One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken because it simplifies dinner with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. The bright, zesty notes of lemon combined with fragrant herbs create a delightful centerpiece for any meal. The best part is how the chicken comes out incredibly juicy, soaking up all the delicious flavors from the veggies and herbs. This dish has quickly become a weeknight favorite in our home, allowing us to enjoy a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:49:28.036Z

While testing out different chicken recipes, I wanted something that would pack a punch in flavor without overwhelming my palate. One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken turned out to be the perfect solution. The compatibility of fresh herbs with citrus not only brightens the dish but also enhances the overall experience. Each bite bursts with juiciness and a blend of savory notes that I can’t get enough of.

During my experiments, I realized that letting the chicken marinate briefly in lemon juice made a world of difference. The acidity tenderizes the meat beautifully, ensuring that even left-overs taste delightful. I've learned that this method can be used for different proteins too; just adjust the marinating time!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Zesty lemon aroma that invigorates your senses
One-pan convenience saves time and cleanup
Customizable with your choice of seasonal vegetables

Understanding the Marinade

The marinade is the heart of this One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken, infusing every bite with bright flavors. The combination of lemon juice and zest not only adds tartness but also helps tenderize the chicken, making it incredibly juicy when cooked. The olive oil creates a luscious coating that locks in moisture and flavor. For a twist, you can substitute olive oil with avocado oil or add a splash of white wine for an extra punch.

Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes is crucial; however, if time permits, letting it sit for up to 2 hours can deepen the taste even further. Look for visual signs that it has absorbed the marinade well—the chicken should appear glistening once it's adequately coated. If you’re in a rush, you can also use a zip-top bag to marinate, which helps distribute the flavors evenly.

Choosing and Preparing Vegetables

When selecting vegetables for this dish, opt for seasonal and crisp varieties; broccoli, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and onions work beautifully together but feel free to customize based on your preference. Consider adding zucchini or asparagus for a different texture profile. The key is to ensure that vegetables are cut into uniform sizes to promote even cooking. Smaller cuts will roast more quickly, so adjust cooking times accordingly; they should be tender and slightly caramelized.

For a visually appealing dish, make sure to spread the vegetables out on the pan. Crowding the pan can lead to steaming rather than roasting, which will affect the flavor and texture. An ideal roasting temperature of 400°F (200°C) will help achieve those desirable golden edges while maintaining a tender interior.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

4 chicken breasts
1/4 cup olive oil
2 lemons (zested and juiced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon fresh thyme (chopped)
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (chopped)
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Vegetables

2 cups broccoli florets
1 bell pepper (sliced)
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1 onion (sliced)

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken breasts to the marinade. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Vegetables

On a sheet pan, spread the broccoli, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and onion. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.

Add the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken breasts on top of the vegetables. Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken and veggies.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and vegetables are tender.

Serve

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with the roasted vegetables.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some capers to the marinade.

Make-Ahead Tips

This dish is fantastic for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance, allowing those flavors to meld overnight. Store it in the refrigerator in a covered container to keep it fresh. Additionally, the chopped vegetables can also be prepared ahead of time—just store them in an airtight container to maintain their crispness. This way, baking day feels effortless, making dinner a breeze.

If you have leftover chicken or vegetables, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken. If you prefer, the chicken can also be shredded and used in salads or wraps the next day for a different meal entirely.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken can be versatile! Pair it with a side of quinoa or rice for a heartier meal. Alternatively, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can complement the dish beautifully. The bright flavors of the lemon and herbs create a fresh contrast with creamy sides like mashed potatoes or a rich risotto.

For an extra touch, drizzle additional lemon juice or a dollop of tzatziki on the finished plate. The zesty notes from the sauce can elevate the entire meal, adding an exciting flavor dimension and keeping it incredibly fresh. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving for an aromatic finish!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables that roast well, such as zucchini or asparagus.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover chicken and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance for even more flavor.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your marinade ingredients are also gluten-free.