Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A delicious, one-pan meal featuring juicy chicken thighs marinated in a zesty lemon garlic sauce, roasted alongside vibrant vegetables.
This Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken is perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests. The aroma of garlic and lemon fills the kitchen, making it hard to resist!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with fresh flavors from lemon and garlic
- Easy clean-up with just one pan needed
- Versatile recipe that works with any seasonal vegetables
Elevate Your Weeknight Dinner
Sheet pan meals like this Lemon Garlic Chicken are a game changer for busy weeknights. Not only do they save time, but they also minimize dishes, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dinner without the hassle of extensive cleanup. The combination of juicy chicken and vibrant vegetables makes for a colorful and appetizing plate, perfect for impressing your family or guests.
This recipe is flexible and can easily adapt to the ingredients you have on hand. Whether you prefer asparagus, zucchini, or even carrots, you can swap out the veggies to suit your taste or the season. This versatility ensures that you can enjoy this dish year-round, making it a staple in your meal rotation.
Health Benefits of Lemon and Garlic
Lemon and garlic are not just flavorful additions to this dish; they also pack a nutritional punch. Lemons are rich in vitamin C, which supports your immune system and promotes healthy skin. Their bright flavor enhances the taste of the chicken while providing refreshing acidity that balances the richness of the meat.
Garlic, known for its medicinal properties, is a powerful antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. It also adds a savory depth to the marinade, making each bite of chicken more satisfying. Together, these ingredients not only elevate the flavor of your meal but also contribute to a healthier lifestyle.
Perfect Pairings for Your Meal
While this Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken is delicious on its own, consider pairing it with a light salad or a side of quinoa for a balanced meal. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the dish beautifully, enhancing the citrus notes while providing a fresh crunch.
You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up any leftover juices on your plate. This adds a delightful texture and makes the meal feel more complete. Whichever sides you choose, this chicken dish will surely be the highlight of your dining experience.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow onion, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix together the minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat well. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Prepare the Vegetables
On a large baking sheet, combine the broccoli, red bell pepper, and onion. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat.
Arrange Chicken and Vegetables
Place the marinated chicken thighs on the baking sheet with the vegetables, skin side up.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
Serve
Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your meal!
Storage and Reheating Tips
To store leftovers, allow the chicken and vegetables to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which helps maintain the crispiness of the chicken skin.
If you prefer, you can also microwave the leftovers, but be aware that this may result in a softer texture. To avoid drying out the chicken, cover the container loosely with a damp paper towel while microwaving.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with different marinades or herbs. Try adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy twist or using fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic flavor boost. You can also use boneless chicken thighs for a quicker cooking time if you prefer.
For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the vegetable mix. This not only adds heat but also layers of flavor that can elevate the entire dish. Don't hesitate to get creative with this recipe to suit your personal taste.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but be sure to adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken a day in advance and keep it in the fridge until you're ready to cook.
→ What sides pair well with this dish?
This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken
A delicious, one-pan meal featuring juicy chicken thighs marinated in a zesty lemon garlic sauce, roasted alongside vibrant vegetables.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow onion, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, mix together the minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat well. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
On a large baking sheet, combine the broccoli, red bell pepper, and onion. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat.
Place the marinated chicken thighs on the baking sheet with the vegetables, skin side up.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your meal!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
- Sodium: 320mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 30g