Easy One-Pan Chicken: A Flavorful, Quick Meal for Busy Weeknights

INTRODUCTION

When life gets busy, sometimes you just want a quick, flavorful meal that doesn’t take hours to prepare. That’s exactly what you’ll get with this Easy One-Pan Chicken recipe. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cleanup, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t want to compromise on flavor. Whether you’re using chicken breasts or thighs, this simple recipe guarantees a tender, juicy chicken with crispy, flavorful edges. It’s a versatile dish that’s full of flavor, and I’m excited to share it with you today.

Getting Started with Easy One-Pan Chicken

The key to making this Easy One-Pan Chicken dish so delicious is the seasoning and the technique. You’ll be amazed at how just a few simple ingredients can create such a mouthwatering meal. I’ve always been a fan of one-pan dishes because they save time and dishes – and this one is no exception.

Easy One-Pan Chicken

This Easy One-Pan Chicken recipe combines juicy chicken breasts or thighs with garlic, paprika, oregano, and fresh veggies like cherry tomatoes and spinach. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, offering full flavor with minimal cleanup. You can also add cheese for a creamy touch or serve it as is for a healthier option.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 People

Course: LUNCH

Cuisine: American

Calories: 330

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
• 1 cup baby spinach optional
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese optional
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

• Oven-safe skillet (large enough to hold the chicken and vegetables)
• Small bowl (for mixing spices)
• Meat thermometer (optional, to check if the chicken is cooked through)
• Cutting board (for prepping the vegetables and chicken)
• Knife (for slicing and dicing)
• Estimated Calories (per serving):
• Calories: 330
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 95mg
• Sodium: 550mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 7g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 35g
• Vitamin A: 12% DV
• Vitamin C: 35% DV
• Calcium: 10% DV
• Iron: 10% DV

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) if finishing in the oven.
2. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub chicken with olive oil and coat with the spice mix.
4. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown.
6. Add cherry tomatoes and spinach (if using) around the chicken.
7. If using cheese, sprinkle it over the chicken now.
8. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
9. Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Notes

For extra flavor, try using chicken thighs instead of breasts.

You can skip the cheese for a dairy-free version.

The cherry tomatoes add a nice juicy sweetness that complements the savory chicken.

You can add additional vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or olives if desired.

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

Start by gathering your ingredients: chicken breasts (or thighs, if you prefer), olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. The combination of garlic powder and paprika gives the chicken a bold flavor, while oregano adds a nice herbal touch. Brush the chicken with olive oil to keep it moist, then evenly apply the seasoning mixture to both sides. The oil helps the spices adhere to the chicken, creating a perfect crust when seared.

Step 2: Searing the Chicken

Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken in the skillet. Sear it for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step locks in the juices and creates that delicious crispy outer layer. The searing process is what makes this dish stand out and adds an extra layer of flavor.

Adding Fresh Veggies and Cheese (Optional)

While the chicken is cooking, you have the opportunity to add more flavor and nutrition to the dish with some fresh vegetables.

Step 1: Adding Cherry Tomatoes and Spinach

Once the chicken is golden and beautifully seared, it’s time to add the cherry tomatoes. Cut them in half, and scatter them around the chicken in the skillet. The tomatoes will release their juices as they cook, adding a burst of tanginess to the dish. If you like, you can also toss in baby spinach at this point, which will wilt and blend seamlessly into the dish, giving it a beautiful green color and added nutrients.

Step 2: Adding Cheese (Optional)

If you’re a cheese lover, this is the time to add some shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese on top of the chicken. This step is entirely optional, but the melted cheese will create a rich and creamy texture that complements the crispy chicken and juicy tomatoes perfectly. It’s an extra indulgence that takes this dish to the next level.

Baking the Chicken to Perfection

Now that you’ve added the veggies and cheese (if using), it’s time to finish cooking the chicken in the oven.

Step 1: Transferring to the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).Once the chicken is seared and the toppings are added, gently place the skillet in the oven. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is fully cooked. This oven time ensures that the chicken is perfectly cooked while the tomatoes soften and release their sweet, juicy flavors.

Step 2: Garnishing and Serving

Once out of the oven, garnish your Easy One-Pan Chicken with some fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. The result is a perfectly cooked, flavorful chicken with a light and fresh vegetable accompaniment. Serve it hot and enjoy a meal that’s as simple as it is satisfying.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

One of the best parts of this Easy One-Pan Chicken is how adaptable it is. You can serve it with a variety of sides or customize it to your taste.

Step 1: Serve with a Side

This dish pairs well with many sides. For a low-carb option, serve it with roasted vegetables or a crisp salad. If you’re craving carbs, serve it with rice, mashed potatoes, or a warm crusty bread to soak up the juices. You can even serve it over pasta for a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Step 2: Customize the Veggies

Feel free to mix and match the veggies you add to the pan. You can swap the spinach for kale or add zucchini, bell peppers, or even olives. The seasoning mixture works well with a variety of vegetables, so get creative and use what you have on hand!

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Conclusion

This quick one-pan chicken recipe is a real lifesaver on忙 busy weeknights. It’s quick, simple, and full of flavor. Plus, with minimal cleanup and the ability to customize the ingredients, you can easily adapt it to fit your taste. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this dish is sure to impress. Try it tonight, and enjoy a meal that’s both satisfying and effortless!

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