18 One-Pan Chicken Recipes for Easy Cleanup

Cooking can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to eat healthier while juggling a busy life. I created this post because I know that finding nutritious meals that don’t require a mountain of dishes to clean can be a challenge. One-pan chicken recipes are the perfect solution to this dilemma. They allow you to whip up delicious, healthy meals with minimal hassle, making your weeknight dinners stress-free and enjoyable.

If you’re someone who loves quick weeknight meals, or you just want to simplify your cooking routine, this collection is for you. Whether you’re a busy parent, a health-conscious eater, or someone looking to shed a few pounds, these easy chicken dinners will fit right into your lifestyle. I pulled together 18 one-pan chicken recipes that are tasty, nutritious, and perfect for busy nights when you want to spend more time with your family and less time scrubbing pots and pans.

With these recipes, you’ll discover how to create satisfying meals that don’t skimp on flavor. From zesty lemon garlic chicken to creamy chicken Alfredo, each dish not only promises easy cleanup but also delivers on wholesome ingredients. Let’s dive into these family-friendly chicken dishes, so you can enjoy great food without the stress!

Key Takeaways

– One-pan chicken recipes simplify meal prep and cleanup, making cooking more enjoyable during busy weeknights.

– These recipes cater to those looking for healthy options, helping you manage weight without sacrificing taste.

– Each dish combines flavors and nutrition, ensuring your family gets the benefits of a balanced diet in a single cooking vessel.

– Quick cooking times mean you can serve hearty meals in under 30 minutes, perfect for hungry mouths after a long day.

– All recipes are designed to be family-friendly, appealing to both kids and adults, with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor.

1. Lemon Garlic Chicken with Asparagus

Are you in need of a bright and uplifting dinner? This Lemon Garlic Chicken with Asparagus is a delicious solution! Juicy chicken breasts are paired with tender asparagus, all drenched in a zesty lemon garlic sauce that will awaken your taste buds. Not only does it taste incredible, but it’s also packed with nutrients to keep you feeling great. Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken breasts
– 1 lb asparagus
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons (juice and zest)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a one-pan dish and coat with the mixture.
4. Add asparagus around the chicken and drizzle with remaining sauce.
5. Bake for 25 mins until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon slices.

FAQs:
– Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, just extend the cooking time accordingly.

2. One-Pan BBQ Chicken and Veggies

Craving a flavor-packed meal that’s easy to make? This One-Pan BBQ Chicken and Veggies is just what you need! Tender chicken thighs are slathered in your favorite barbecue sauce, then roasted alongside vibrant vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. The best part? The vegetables absorb all the delicious BBQ juices, making each bite heavenly. This dish is not only satisfying but also quick to prepare, keeping cleanup to a minimum.

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken thighs
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 bell peppers, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss chicken thighs with BBQ sauce.
3. Arrange veggies in a one-pan dish and drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Place chicken on top of the veggies.
5. Bake for 30 mins or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

FAQs:
– Can I use chicken breasts? Yes, just reduce cooking time for tender meat.

3. Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Want to take your taste buds on a Mediterranean getaway? This Mediterranean Chicken Bake is the perfect answer! Juicy chicken thighs combine with olives, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese, creating a delightful mix of flavors that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Not only is it visually stunning, but it’s packed with antioxidants and healthy fats, making it a smart choice for a fulfilling meal. Plus, it fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken thighs
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes
– 1/2 cup olives
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 2 tsp oregano
– Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a pan, arrange chicken thighs and top with olives, tomatoes, and oregano.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Bake for 30 mins until chicken is done and feta is golden.
5. Serve warm with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

FAQs:
– Can I use chicken breasts? Yes, but adjust the cooking time.

Fun fact: Mediterranean flavors shine in one-pan meals, cutting cleanup time while boosting flavor. Juicy chicken thighs, olives, cherry tomatoes, and feta deliver healthy fats and antioxidants—perfect for a practical entry in your one-pan chicken recipes.

4. Honey Mustard Chicken and Brussels Sprouts

Looking for a sweet and tangy dinner that’s quick to prepare? This Honey Mustard Chicken and Brussels Sprouts is the answer! The delightful sweetness of honey pairs perfectly with savory chicken, while the Brussels sprouts add a delightful crunch. This one-pan meal is not only satisfying but also loaded with vitamins and minerals, making it a fantastic choice for those watching their weight. Each bite delivers a wonderful mix of flavors you won’t want to miss.

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken breasts
– 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix honey, mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat chicken breasts with the mixture and place in a one-pan dish.
4. Add Brussels sprouts around the chicken.
5. Bake for 25 mins until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, drizzled with remaining sauce.

FAQs:
– Can I use other veggies? Absolutely! Carrots and green beans work well too.

5. Spicy Chicken and Quinoa Bowl

Are you in the mood for something with a little kick? This Spicy Chicken and Quinoa Bowl is just what you need! Juicy chicken marinated in spices is served on a fluffy bed of quinoa, mixed with colorful veggies for a vibrant meal. This dish is hearty yet healthy, packed with protein and fiber to keep you feeling full without compromising on taste. The exciting flavors and textures are sure to make it a family favorite.

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken breasts
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, corn, and peas)
– 2 tsp chili powder
– Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, season chicken breasts with chili powder, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
4. Place chicken on a sheet pan and bake for 20 mins.
5. Sauté mixed vegetables until tender.
6. Serve chicken over quinoa and veggies.

FAQs:
– Can I make it vegetarian? Yes, use chickpeas instead of chicken.

One-pan chicken recipes make weeknights simple and tasty—protein-packed meals without the cleanup. It only takes a few spices and a quinoa bed to turn bite-sized flavor into a satisfying, weight-loss friendly dinner you’ll actually crave.

6. Creamy One-Pan Chicken and Spinach

Craving a comforting yet healthy meal? This Creamy Chicken and Spinach dish is just what you need! Tender chicken is cooked in a light creamy sauce made from Greek yogurt and fresh spinach, offering a nutritious twist on a classic favorite. This recipe is perfect for those who want a rich tasting meal without the heavy calories. The creamy sauce complements the chicken beautifully, making it a hit with both kids and adults.

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken breasts
– 2 cups fresh spinach
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and cook for 5-7 mins on each side.
3. Add garlic and spinach, cooking until spinach is wilted.
4. Stir in Greek yogurt until well combined.
5. Serve warm, garnished with extra spinach.

FAQs:
– Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, just ensure it’s well-drained.

7. One-Pan Chicken Fajitas

Ready to spice up your dinner routine? These One-Pan Chicken Fajitas are a fantastic choice! Tender chicken strips are sautéed with colorful bell peppers and onions, seasoned with zesty spices, and served in warm tortillas. This recipe is quick to prepare and easily customizable, making it a fun and healthy meal option that everyone in the family will love. The vibrant colors and flavors will make your dinner table come alive!

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken breasts, sliced
– 2 bell peppers, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 tsp fajita seasoning
– Whole wheat tortillas
– Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chicken and sauté until browned.
3. Stir in bell peppers, onion, and fajita seasoning.
4. Cook until vegetables are tender.
5. Serve in warm tortillas with your choice of toppings.

FAQs:
– Can I use steak instead? Yes, just adjust the cooking time.

8. One-Pan Chicken and Rice

Looking for a classic comfort meal? This One-Pan Chicken and Rice dish never disappoints! Juicy chicken is cooked with seasoned rice, creating a hearty and satisfying meal that warms the soul. This recipe is perfect for meal prep, as it can easily be made in bulk and stored for the week. The rice absorbs all the delicious flavors from the chicken, promising each bite is fulfilling and delightful.

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken thighs
– 1 cup rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Sear chicken thighs until browned on both sides.
3. Remove chicken and sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
4. Stir in rice and broth, returning chicken to the pan.
5. Cover and simmer for 25 mins until rice is cooked.
6. Serve warm, garnished with parsley.

FAQs:
– Can I use brown rice? Yes, but increase the cooking time.

9. Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli

In the mood for something tasty yet healthy? This One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli is a great choice! Tender chicken is coated in a homemade teriyaki sauce and paired with crisp broccoli, making for a balanced meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. It’s low in calories but rich in flavor, perfect for those watching their diet. The combination of savory and sweet will have your taste buds dancing with joy!

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken breasts, sliced
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, and garlic.
2. Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté chicken until browned.
3. Add broccoli and sauce, cooking for 10 mins until broccoli is tender.
4. Serve warm, drizzled with extra sauce if desired.

FAQs:
– Can I add other vegetables? Yes, bell peppers and carrots work great too.

10. Thai Red Curry Chicken

Craving something exotic and flavorful? This One-Pan Thai Red Curry Chicken will transport your taste buds straight to Thailand! Juicy chicken is cooked in a rich coconut milk sauce infused with red curry paste, accompanied by colorful bell peppers and fresh basil. This dish is perfect for enjoying vibrant flavors while maintaining a healthy diet. The creamy coconut sauce is satisfying without being heavy, making it a go-to for any night of the week.

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken breasts, sliced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tbsp red curry paste
– 2 bell peppers, sliced
– Fresh basil for garnish
– Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté chicken until browned.
2. Stir in red curry paste and cook for 2 mins.
3. Add coconut milk and bell peppers, simmering until chicken is cooked.
4. Serve warm, garnished with basil.

FAQs:
– Can I use other proteins? Yes, shrimp and tofu work well too.

11. Caprese Chicken Skillet

Ready for a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious? This Caprese Chicken Skillet is a feast for the eyes and the palate! Juicy chicken is topped with fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and basil, creating an Italian-inspired delight. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also brings together wholesome ingredients, making it a balanced meal option. The flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that feels gourmet yet can be made in less than 30 minutes!

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken breasts
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella, sliced
– 1/4 cup basil, chopped
– Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper and cook until browned.
3. Add tomatoes and mozzarella, covering to melt cheese.
4. Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.

FAQs:
– Can I use dried basil? Yes, but fresh has more flavor.

12. One-Pan Chicken and Vegetables Stir-Fry

Short on time but craving something delicious? This One-Pan Chicken and Vegetables Stir-Fry is your answer! Tender chicken pieces are sautéed with a vibrant mix of vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers, all tossed in a savory sauce. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights, ensuring you get a healthy serving of veggies in your diet. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up any leftover vegetables you may have in your fridge!

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken breasts, sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, carrots, bell peppers)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tbsp sesame oil
– Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Sauté chicken until browned and cooked through.
3. Add vegetables and cook until tender.
4. Stir in sesame oil and soy sauce, mixing well.
5. Serve warm with rice or noodles.

FAQs:
– Can I use frozen veggies? Yes, just adjust the cooking time.

13. One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Hash

Looking for a hearty meal that’s perfect for any time of day? This One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Hash fits the bill! The combination of juicy chicken, roasted sweet potatoes, and savory spices creates a filling dish that’s packed with nutrients. Sweet potatoes provide complex carbohydrates and a hint of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken. It’s also a great dish for meal prep, making it easy to store for later.

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken breasts, diced
– 2 large sweet potatoes, diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes and onion with olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 20 mins.
4. Add chicken and bake for an additional 10-15 mins until chicken is cooked.
5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs.

FAQs:
– Can I use regular potatoes? Yes, but adjust the cooking time.

14. Chicken Piccata with Capers

Are you ready to impress with a classic Italian dish? This Chicken Piccata with Capers comes together beautifully in one pan. Lightly pan-fried chicken is topped with a bright lemon-caper sauce, adding a zesty kick that’s incredibly flavorful. It’s an elegant dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare, perfect for impressing guests without any fuss. Each bite is a celebration of tangy and savory flavors that are sure to delight!

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken breasts, pounded thin
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 tbsp capers
– Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper and cook until golden brown.
3. Remove chicken and deglaze the pan with chicken broth and lemon juice.
4. Stir in capers and return chicken to the pan, simmering for 5 mins.
5. Serve garnished with parsley and lemon slices.

FAQs:
– Can I use chicken thighs? Yes, they work well too.

15. Balsamic Chicken with Spinach and Mushrooms

In search of a dish that combines savory flavors with fresh ingredients? This Balsamic Chicken with Spinach and Mushrooms is a delightful choice! Juicy chicken breasts are cooked in a tangy balsamic glaze, paired with spinach and mushrooms for a well-rounded meal. The combination of the balsamic reduction and earthy mushrooms elevates the dish, making it an exciting option for healthy dinners. It’s quick to prepare and nutritious, pleasing everyone at the table.

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken breasts
– 2 cups spinach
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper, cooking until browned.
3. Add mushrooms and sauté until soft.
4. Stir in balsamic vinegar and spinach, cooking until spinach is wilted.
5. Serve warm, drizzled with extra balsamic glaze.

FAQs:
– Can I add other veggies? Absolutely! Bell peppers work great too.

16. One-Pan Chicken Cacciatore

Longing for a comforting Italian classic? This One-Pan Chicken Cacciatore is a rustic delight! Chicken is simmered with bell peppers, tomatoes, and olives, creating a flavorful sauce that’s perfect for serving over pasta or rice. This dish is a wonderful way to enjoy hearty vegetables and lean protein, making it a nutritious option for weeknight dinners. The robust flavors meld together beautifully, ensuring every bite is a delight.

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken thighs
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
– 1/2 cup olives, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Brown chicken thighs on both sides.
3. Add garlic and bell peppers; cook until softened.
4. Stir in tomatoes and olives, simmering for 30 mins.
5. Serve warm, over pasta or rice.

FAQs:
– Can I use chicken breasts? Yes, just adjust the cooking time.

17. Garlic Herb Chicken with Green Beans

Searching for a simple yet flavorful dinner? This Garlic Herb Chicken with Green Beans is just what you need! Seasoned with fragrant herbs and roasted to perfection, it’s a dish that’s as healthy as it is delicious. The green beans cook alongside the chicken, soaking up all the savory flavors. It’s a fantastic weeknight meal that ensures minimal cleanup while delivering maximum taste.

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken breasts
– 2 cups green beans, trimmed
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme), salt, and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat chicken with the mixture and place in a one-pan dish.
4. Add green beans around the chicken.
5. Bake for 25 mins until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve warm, drizzled with extra olive oil if desired.

FAQs:
– Can I use frozen green beans? Yes, just adjust cooking time.

Weeknights deserve flavor, not chaos. With one-pan chicken recipes like Garlic Herb Chicken with Green Beans, you get juicy chicken and crisp greens with barely any cleanup. Simple seasoning, big taste, and a weeknight win.

18. One-Pan Chicken Alfredo

Craving a creamy, indulgent dish without the guilt? This One-Pan Chicken Alfredo is a delightful solution! Tender chicken is combined with a lightened-up alfredo sauce made from Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese. It’s rich and satisfying while keeping your health goals in mind. With just one pan to cook in, you’ll get to enjoy your delightful meal without the hassle of cleanup.

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken breasts
– 1 cup whole wheat pasta
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– 2 cups spinach
– Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook chicken until browned.
3. Stir in Greek yogurt and Parmesan until smooth.
4. Add spinach and cooked pasta, mixing gently.
5. Serve warm, garnished with extra cheese.

FAQs:
– Can I use different pasta? Yes, any pasta you prefer will work!

Conclusion

These one-pan chicken recipes showcase how easy and delicious it can be to eat healthy without spending all night cleaning up.

Each dish brings together wholesome ingredients and mouthwatering flavors, perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead.

With options for every taste, you’re sure to find a few favorites that make your weeknight meals not only healthier but also enjoyable!