Healthy Sheet Pan Chicken and Broccoli (Ready in 30 Minutes!)
If my ideal dinner had a personality, it’d be low-maintenance but wholesome and delightful — and my Sheet Pan Chicken and Broccoli fits this description to a T.
This recipe delivers perfectly seasoned, juicy chicken with crispy, caramelized broccoli, all roasted together on one pan for easy cleanup. It’s a healthy, no-fuss dinner that feels comforting without being boring.
The high heat of the oven gives the chicken a golden, slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and flavorful. Meanwhile, the broccoli develops those irresistible crispy edges that make it nearly impossible not to snack on straight from the pan.
A simple blend of seasonings ties everything together, making this dish perfect on its own, over rice, or tossed with pasta.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just need a quick dinner solution, this sheet pan meal is a winner every time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy cleanup with just one pan
- Healthy and packed with protein and vegetables
- Perfectly seasoned chicken and beautifully cooked broccoli
- Great for meal prep or family dinners
The Story Behind the Recipe
There was one evening where, after a grueling day at work, I found myself staring blankly at the fridge.
I was feeling overwhelmed by the thought of spending more than an hour in the kitchen, chopping and cooking and cleaning used pans.
But I still needed to feed my family, so I wanted to make something quick yet comforting. I looked through my fridge and found some broccoli and frozen chicken thighs.
I threw them together on a sheet pan with a few seasonings, and voilá: we had a simple yet tasty and healthy dinner right away.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- 4 chicken thighs (you can also use chicken breasts, but remember to adjust the cooking time)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil for a nutty flavor)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder (feel free to swap for 2 cloves of garlic; just make sure to mince well)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon
Prep & Cook Time
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 20 to 25 minutes | 30 to 35 minutes |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the chicken. Season your chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika, ensuring each piece is evenly coated to enhance flavor.
- Prepare the broccoli. In a bowl, toss broccoli florets in olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Note: you can skip this step if you’re in a hurry and just add the broccoli to the sheet pan, but doing this will help give the florets a beautifully crisp texture and added flavor.
- Arrange on a sheet pan. Place the seasoned chicken and broccoli on the same sheet pan, making sure they are evenly spaced for optimal roasting.
- Bake. Place the pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the broccoli is tender with a slightly crisp exterior.
- Finish with a squeeze of lemon. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken and broccoli before serving to elevate the dish with a zesty finish.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken for juicier meat and added flavor.
- If you have time, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and your favorite herbs for at least 30 minutes before roasting. This helps infuse the meat with deeper flavor and extra moisture.
- A quick drizzle of balsamic glaze, honey mustard, or a garlic butter sauce right before serving can give this dish more richness and depth.
- Try including cubed sweet potatoes or bell peppers in your version for vibrant color and added nutrients.
- Garnish the chicken with lemon zest to achieve a gorgeous gourmet-style presentation and brighten it up a bit more.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbohydrates | Fiber |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 serving | 350 | 30g | 20g | 10g | 4g |
FAQs About Sheet Pan Chicken and Broccoli
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days to maintain flavor and freshness.
How do I make sure my broccoli doesn’t turn mushy?
To keep your broccoli crisp, make sure it’s thoroughly dried after washing, and don’t overcrowd the pan. You can also roast it during the last 15 minutes of baking instead of adding it at the beginning.
Can I make this recipe with different vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap broccoli for carrots, bell peppers, or asparagus; these roast beautifully alongside the chicken.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It reheats well and can be portioned out for easy lunches throughout the week.
Enjoy Every Bite of This Sheet Pan Chicken and Broccoli!
With simple ingredients, effortless cleanup, and plenty of ways to customize, this sheet pan chicken and broccoli is the perfect go-to meal for a nutritious and stress-free dinner. Let me know if this becomes a staple in your meal rotation!
