Quick and Easy One Pan Dinners with Chicken

Name: Quick and Easy One Pan Dinners with Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs); 2 bell peppers, sliced; 1 large yellow onion, chopped; 2 medium zucchinis, sliced thick; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 2 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme); Salt and pepper to taste

Published: October 22, 2025

by Clara Harper

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This amazing one pan dinner with chicken offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
Perfect for busy weeknights but versatile enough for gatherings too.

I remember my kids’ faces lighting up when they tasted this dish for the first time—it was magic!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 pieces, but adjust based on how many people you’re feeding.
Bell Peppers: Choose vibrant colors for visual appeal and sweeter flavors—red and yellow are my favorites.
Onions: Use yellow onions for their sweetness; they caramelize beautifully during cooking.
Zucchini: A great way to add some green goodness—slice them thick so they hold up during cooking.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are best; they elevate the flavor profile dramatically.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness and helps prevent sticking.
Dried Italian Herbs: A blend of basil, oregano, and thyme creates that comforting Italian flavor we all love.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning everything just right—don’t forget these!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by chopping all your veggies into bite-sized pieces while your oven preheats to 400°F (200°C). This ensures even cooking later.

Season the Chicken: Pat your chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. This step builds flavor right from the start.

Sauté Garlic and Onions: Heat olive oil in your trusty skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onions until they turn translucent and release their sweet aroma—about 3-4 minutes.

Add Veggies: Toss in those colorful bell peppers and zucchini. Cook until slightly tender but still crisp; around 5 minutes should do the trick.

Add Chicken: Nestle your seasoned chicken breasts among the veggies in the skillet. Sear them for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown; this locks in juices!

Bake it All Together: Transfer your skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The veggies should be tender yet vibrant.

Enjoy your delightful one pan dinner full of flavors bursting at every bite! Clean-up? A breeze—just wash that one trusty skillet!

And there you have it—a simple yet mouthwatering meal that brings everyone together without turning your kitchen into a battleground! Happy cooking!

You Must Know

This one pan dinner chicken recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights.
It combines flavors and minimizes cleanup, making your kitchen a happy place.
Plus, the aroma wafting through your home will make your family think you’re a five-star chef.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to lock in flavor, then add vegetables and cook them simultaneously for efficiency. This way, everything melds together beautifully while ensuring perfectly cooked chicken.

Add Your Touch

Consider swapping out veggies based on seasonality or personal preference. You can also try different herbs like rosemary or thyme to give it a unique twist that suits your taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave to maintain tenderness and flavor without drying out the chicken.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy.
Use high-quality olive oil for better flavor.
Ensure you cut vegetables uniformly for even cooking and presentation.

Cooking this dish reminds me of the first time I made it for friends; they devoured it and declared me a culinary genius, which definitely boosted my confidence in the kitchen.

FAQ

What can I use instead of chicken?

You can substitute with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option that’s equally satisfying.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and chop veggies a day in advance for easy cooking.

How do I prevent overcooking the chicken?

Use a meat thermometer; 165°F is the sweet spot for perfectly cooked chicken every time.

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📖 Recipe Card