Easy Healthy Chicken And Broccoli Sheet Pan
Highlighted under: Healthy Comfort Classics
I love making the Easy Healthy Chicken And Broccoli Sheet Pan because it's not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrients. With just a few ingredients, I can create a wholesome meal that the whole family enjoys. The combination of tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, all roasted to perfection, makes for a satisfying dinner on busy nights. Plus, cleanup is a breeze with only one pan to wash afterwards!
When I first tried the Easy Healthy Chicken And Broccoli Sheet Pan, I was surprised by how quickly it came together. The key is to use fresh veggies and high-quality chicken; this makes all the difference in flavor. I tossed the chicken and broccoli with just the right amount of olive oil and seasoning to enhance their natural tastes.
Roasting everything on a single sheet pan not only locks in the flavors but also makes it easier to clean up, which I appreciate after a long day. I love drizzling a bit of lemon juice over the top before serving for an extra burst of freshness!
Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
- Packed with protein and nutrients
- One pan means less cleanup, leaving you more time to relax
Flavorful Ingredients at Play
The ingredients in the Easy Healthy Chicken And Broccoli Sheet Pan not only make it nutritious but also contribute to its overall flavor profile. The chicken breast is a lean protein source that absorbs the garlic and onion powder well, providing a savory base for the dish. Using fresh broccoli florets adds a slightly crunchy texture, balancing the soft, juicy chicken perfectly. The olive oil acts as a carrier for the seasonings and aids in achieving that desirable golden-brown color on the chicken's edges during roasting.
Each element has a role to play; for instance, the juiciness of the chicken paired with the natural earthiness of broccoli creates a hearty yet healthy meal. The addition of lemon juice just before serving elevates the dish’s flavors, cutting through the richness with its brightness. I recommend using freshly squeezed lemon for maximum zing, as it enhances the overall taste compared to bottled juice.
Tips for Perfect Roasting
For optimal results, ensure the chicken and broccoli are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet to allow for even roasting. Clumping them together can cause steaming rather than roasting, resulting in less flavorful and soggy textures. If you notice that the chicken is browning too quickly, consider reducing the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and extending the cooking time by a few minutes.
Monitoring the cooking process is vital; you should look for the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it's safe to eat. The broccoli should be bright green and tender but still have a slight crunch. A great visual cue is when the edges of the broccoli start to get crispy, indicating they are perfectly roasted.
Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients below for this simple yet nutritious recipe:
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon (for serving)
Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready for the best result!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious meal:
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
Prepare Chicken and Broccoli
In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, broccoli florets, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until everything is well coated.
Arrange on Sheet Pan
Spread the chicken and broccoli mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
Roast
Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the broccoli is tender. Stir halfway through cooking for even roasting.
Serve
Remove from the oven and drizzle with lemon juice before serving. Enjoy your delicious and healthy meal!
This sheet pan recipe is so versatile; you can easily swap out the chicken or veggies to suit your preferences!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken in your favorite herbs or spices for an hour before cooking. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the mix!
Make-Ahead & Storage
One of the best features of this recipe is its adaptability for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken and prepare the broccoli a day in advance. Simply toss the ingredients together and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator overnight. This not only saves time but also allows the chicken to absorb those flavors more deeply, resulting in even tastier outcomes.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, a quick 2-3 minutes in the microwave will do, but for the best texture, pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will help retain that roasted flavor rather than steaming it in the microwave.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
This dish serves beautifully as a stand-alone meal, but there are many ways to amp it up. Consider pairing it with brown rice or quinoa for added fiber and a more filling option. You can also serve it over a bed of mixed greens for a light salad twist. Drizzling with a bit more lemon juice or adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese right before serving can also enhance the flavor profile.
For those looking to experiment, this recipe is highly versatile. You can substitute the broccoli with other vegetables like bell peppers, asparagus, or snap peas depending on your preferences and what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that different vegetables may alter the cooking time slightly, so adjust accordingly to prevent overcooking.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but it may release more water during cooking, so adjust the cooking time as needed.
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients in advance and store them in the fridge, but it's best to cook it fresh for optimal taste.
→ What can I serve this with?
This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a side salad for a complete meal.
→ Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with turkey, shrimp, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Easy Healthy Chicken And Broccoli Sheet Pan
I love making the Easy Healthy Chicken And Broccoli Sheet Pan because it's not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrients. With just a few ingredients, I can create a wholesome meal that the whole family enjoys. The combination of tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, all roasted to perfection, makes for a satisfying dinner on busy nights. Plus, cleanup is a breeze with only one pan to wash afterwards!
Created by: Lila Morgan
Recipe Type: Healthy Comfort Classics
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon (for serving)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, broccoli florets, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until everything is well coated.
Spread the chicken and broccoli mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the broccoli is tender. Stir halfway through cooking for even roasting.
Remove from the oven and drizzle with lemon juice before serving. Enjoy your delicious and healthy meal!
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken in your favorite herbs or spices for an hour before cooking. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the mix!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 40g