Sheet Pan Lemon Chicken
Tender, juicy chicken breasts and crispy potatoes roasted to perfection with broccoli and red onion, all on one pan for minimal cleanup. A bright, zesty lemon-herb marinade makes this an ideal, well-balanced weeknight dinner.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 40 minutes total.
- 1
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)
- a.Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This prevents sticking and makes the process much smoother.
- 2
Place the halved potatoes on the prepared baking sheet
- a.Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Toss to coat evenly, then spread them in a single layer, cut-side down for better browning. Roast for 15 minutes to give them a head start.
- 3
While the potatoes are roasting, prepare the marinade
- a.In a medium bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, juice of one lemon, minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, the remaining 3/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel, then add them to the marinade, turning to coat completely. Set aside.
- 4
Step 4
- a.After the potatoes have roasted for 15 minutes, carefully remove the hot sheet pan from the oven. Push the potatoes to one side. Add the broccoli florets and red onion wedges to the other side of the pan. Place the marinated chicken breasts among the vegetables. Arrange the thin lemon slices over the chicken and vegetables.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Return the pan to the oven and roast for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at its thickest point. The potatoes should be tender and golden, and the broccoli should be crisp-tender.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Remove the pan from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender result. Garnish generously with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For best results, use a large enough sheet pan so the ingredients aren't crowded. This allows them to roast instead of steam, leading to better browning and flavor.
- 2Patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel before marinating helps them get a better color in the oven.
- 3Placing the potatoes cut-side down on the pan maximizes contact with the hot surface, resulting in crispier edges.
- 4An instant-read thermometer is the best way to ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly—juicy and safe to eat.
- 5Don't skip the fresh parsley at the end; it adds a burst of freshness that brightens all the flavors.
- 6Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
Swap the chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs (you may need to add 5-10 minutes to the cook time), salmon fillets (add in the last 12-15 minutes), or firm tofu (press well, cube, and marinate).
Vegetable MedleyVegetable Medley
Use other sturdy vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or cauliflower, adding them with the potatoes. For quicker-cooking vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini, add them along with the chicken.
Herb & Spice InfusionHerb & Spice Infusion
Introduce different herbs like 1 teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary to the marinade. For a touch of heat, add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Lean Protein Powerhouse
Chicken breast is an excellent source of high-quality, lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue, supporting bone health, and keeping you feeling full.
Rich in Vitamins & Fiber
Broccoli is loaded with Vitamin C and K, while potatoes provide potassium and energy. Both are great sources of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes gut health.
Heart-Healthy Fats
The use of olive oil provides monounsaturated fats, which are known to support cardiovascular health by helping to reduce bad cholesterol levels.
Immunity Support
Garlic and lemon are packed with antioxidants and beneficial compounds like allicin and Vitamin C, which can help strengthen the immune system and protect the body against illness.
Frequently asked questions
A typical serving of this Sheet Pan Lemon Chicken contains approximately 450-550 calories, depending on the exact size of the chicken breasts and the amount of oil used. It provides a well-balanced meal with protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.