10 One-Pan Chicken Dinner Recipes That Save Time and Effort

I know how busy life can get, and finding time to cook can sometimes feel impossible. That’s why I love one-pan chicken dinners.

These meals are perfect for saving time and simplifying cleanup without sacrificing flavor or quality.

One-pan recipes allow me to prepare delicious meals with minimal effort. They fit perfectly into my schedule, making it easier to enjoy home-cooked food even on my busiest days.

Lemon Herb Chicken Skillet

I love making this Lemon Herb Chicken Skillet because it’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for a busy weeknight. The bright lemon and fragrant herbs make the chicken really pop, and it cooks all in one pan, reducing cleanup time.

The estimated cooking time for this dish is about 30 minutes, and it’s easy for anyone to make.

You’ll need these ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

To cook, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano.

Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.

Next, add lemon juice to the pan. Let it cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to blend.

Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley before serving!

For a twist, try adding veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes to the pan. I’ve found that using chicken thighs instead of breasts gives a juicier result.

This dish goes well with rice or a simple salad, making it a go-to for me. If you need any cookware or ingredients, just check out my recommended links!

Garlic Butter Chicken with Asparagus

I love making Garlic Butter Chicken with Asparagus because it’s quick and packed with flavor. The buttery garlic sauce pairs perfectly with the tender chicken and crisp asparagus. It’s a meal that rivals my favorite restaurant dish!

This recipe takes about 30 minutes and is easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs
• 1 bunch of asparagus
• 4 tablespoons of butter
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper
• Lemon slices

Instructions:

1. Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. This helps enhance the flavor.

2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown, about 6-7 minutes on each side.

3. While the chicken cooks, trim the asparagus and set aside.

4. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet. Add the remaining butter and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.

5. Toss in the asparagus and lemon slices, cooking until the asparagus is tender, about 4-5 minutes.

6. Return the chicken to the skillet, allowing everything to meld together for another 2-3 minutes.

For a twist, you can substitute chicken thighs with breasts or use different vegetables like broccoli. Don’t forget to use a non-stick skillet to make cleanup easier!

I find that having quality cookware makes all the difference. You might want to check out my favorite non-stick skillet online!

3. Honey Mustard Chicken and Potatoes

I absolutely love making Honey Mustard Chicken and Potatoes for a quick weeknight dinner. This one-pan meal is packed with flavor and comes together in no time. The sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce pairs perfectly with juicy chicken thighs and crispy potatoes.

This dish is great because it uses just one pan, which means less clean-up for me. The cooking time is around 40 minutes, and I’d say the difficulty level is easy.

For the ingredients, I usually grab:

• 4 bone-in chicken thighs
• 1 pound of mini potatoes
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

To prepare, I start by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C).

I mix honey, mustard, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Then, I drizzle olive oil on a baking sheet, add the potatoes, and nestle the chicken thighs on top. I pour the honey mustard mix over everything and bake for 30 minutes.

One pro tip is to add some colorful veggies like broccoli or carrots for extra nutrition. If you’re looking for a lighter option, boneless chicken breasts work well too.

I enjoy this dish even more with leftovers the next day. The flavors really meld together, making it taste even better!

Mediterranean Chicken with Olives

I love making Mediterranean Chicken with Olives for dinner. It’s quick, flavorful, and really easy to prepare. The mix of olives, tomatoes, and herbs gives this dish a vibrant taste that feels like a warm summer evening, even in the winter.

This recipe takes about 30 minutes to cook and I’d say it’s beginner-friendly.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for best flavor)
• 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook until golden, about 4-5 minutes per side.

2. Once the chicken is browned, remove it from the skillet. In the same pan, add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

3. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Scrape any bits from the bottom of the pan. Then, return the chicken to the skillet.

4. Add the olives, tomatoes, and oregano. Cover and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

   
   

Pro tip: You can swap the chicken thighs for chicken breasts to make it a bit lighter. Using canned tomatoes works in a pinch too. Enjoy!

5. Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli

I love making Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli for dinner. It’s a simple dish that combines tasty chicken with crunchy broccoli and a sweet teriyaki sauce. The flavors are perfectly balanced, making it a family favorite.

This dish takes about 30 minutes to cook and is easy enough for beginners. You can feel like a pro with just one pan!

For the ingredients, you will need:

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 1/4 cup homemade or store-bought teriyaki sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice for serving

To make it, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).

I toss the chicken and broccoli in olive oil, salt, and pepper on a sheet pan. Then, I pour the teriyaki sauce over everything.

Next, I roast it in the oven for about 20 minutes. The chicken becomes tender, and the broccoli gets crispy. I usually serve it over rice for a fulfilling meal.

Pro tip: If you want to mix it up, try adding other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. You can also use tofu instead of chicken for a delicious vegetarian option.

I can’t wait to hear how you enjoy this easy, flavorful dish!

6. Pesto Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes

I love making Pesto Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes because it’s quick and bursting with flavor. The creamy pesto pairs perfectly with juicy tomatoes for a delicious one-pan meal. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and clean up is a breeze!

This dish takes about 30 minutes and is rated as easy. Here are the ingredients you’ll need:

• 2 chicken breasts
• 165 g basil pesto
• 150 g cherry tomatoes, halved
• 165 g cream cheese
• 500 ml chicken stock
• 250 g fusilli pasta
• 20 g butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

To start, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. I always season it well with salt and pepper.

Heat a pot and melt the butter. Add the chicken and cook until browned. This usually takes around 5 minutes.

Next, stir in the cream cheese and pesto. Mix until it’s well combined. Then, pour in the chicken stock and bring it to a simmer. I love the smell of the herbs as it cooks!

Now add the pasta and cherry tomatoes. Cook until the pasta is tender, about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick.

For a twist, I sometimes add spinach or swap the chicken for tofu for a vegetarian option. If you want extra flavor, sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top before serving. This dish never fails to impress my family!

7. Cajun Chicken and Rice

I love making Cajun Chicken and Rice because it combines bold flavors with simple cooking. This dish packs a punch thanks to Cajun seasoning, and it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

The estimated cooking time is about 30 minutes, and I’d rate it as easy. You don’t need to be a culinary expert to whip this up!

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups of rice
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cups of chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

First, season the chicken with Cajun seasoning.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet, then brown the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side.

Next, remove the chicken and sauté the onion and bell pepper until soft.

Add the rice and stir for a minute. Pour in the chicken broth, then place the chicken on top.

Cover the skillet and simmer for 20 minutes until the rice absorbs the liquid. Use a fork to fluff the rice before serving.

For a twist, you can swap the chicken for shrimp or add some veggies like zucchini for extra nutrients. I also like to sprinkle some green onions on top before serving.

8. Balsamic Glazed Chicken and Mushrooms

I love making Balsamic Glazed Chicken and Mushrooms on busy weeknights. It’s simple, delicious, and packed with flavor. The tangy balsamic vinegar paired with savory mushrooms creates a comforting meal that I return to often.

It takes about 30 minutes to whip up, and it’s easy enough for anyone to follow. Even my kids enjoy it!

You’ll need chicken breasts, balsamic vinegar, mushrooms, garlic, and a bit of butter.

Here’s how I make it:

1. Start by slicing chicken breasts in half. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
3. Remove the chicken and add sliced mushrooms to the same pan. Sauté for 5 minutes.
4. Pour in balsamic vinegar and chicken broth. Let it reduce for about 5 minutes, then stir in butter.
5. Add the chicken back to the skillet, coating it well in the sauce.

For those looking to switch things up, you can substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option. Using honey or maple syrup can also sweeten the dish without the balsamic.

This dish is great served over rice or alongside green beans to complete the meal. I’ve found that it always impresses guests too!

9. Greek Lemon Chicken with Spinach

I love making Greek Lemon Chicken with Spinach for a quick weeknight dinner. The bright flavors of lemon mixed with tender chicken and fresh spinach always lift my spirits. This dish combines savory and zesty tastes that are simply delightful.

This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and is easy to make, perfect for busy evenings. The juicy chicken thighs are full of flavor, and the spinach adds a nice touch of freshness.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs
• 2 cups spinach
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup rice
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Olive oil, salt, and pepper

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
2. Remove the chicken and add the rice to the skillet. Toast it for a couple of minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Bring it to a boil, then reduce heat and return the chicken to the pan.
4. Cover and cook for 15 minutes until the rice is tender. Stir in the spinach until it wilts.

For a twist, you can swap the chicken for turkey or use quinoa instead of rice. I also love adding feta cheese on top for extra flavor. Using a cast-iron skillet helps with even cooking and gives a nice sear.

This dish is both delightful and comforting. Plus, it only uses one pan, making cleanup a breeze!

10. Buffalo Chicken and Cauliflower

I love making Buffalo Chicken and Cauliflower when I’m short on time but craving something delicious. This dish has a spicy flavor that’s balanced by the mildness of the cauliflower. Plus, it’s all done in one pan!

The estimated cooking time is about 30 minutes, and I’d rate it as easy. You only need a few ingredients to get started.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast, cubed
• 1 head of cauliflower, chopped
• 1 cup buffalo sauce
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until golden brown.
2. Remove the chicken from the pan and add the cauliflower. Cook for about 3 minutes until it starts to soften.
3. Stir in the buffalo sauce and chicken broth. Return the chicken to the pan and let it simmer for 10 minutes until everything is cooked through.

One pro tip is to add heavy cream if you want a creamier sauce. You can also swap out the chicken for turkey or use more veggies. This dish is a great way to mix things up!

I enjoy serving this dish with a side of rice or over mashed potatoes. It’s a hit with my family every time!

Why Choose One-Pan Dinners?

One-pan dinners are a great choice for anyone looking to save time and effort in the kitchen. They make cooking simpler and cleaning up a breeze. Here’s why I enjoy them so much.

Time-Saving Benefits

One-pan dinners are incredibly quick to prepare. I can usually have a meal started and cooking in under 15 minutes.

All the ingredients go into one pan, which means less time spent chopping and measuring.

Cooking everything together allows the flavors to blend, which can enhance the taste. For example, a dish like Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken is both easy and delicious.

With dinner ready in under 30 minutes, I have plenty of time for other activities, like spending time with family or relaxing. This makes one-pan meals perfect for busy weeknights.

Minimal Clean-Up

One of my favorite parts about one-pan dinners is the minimal clean-up. After a long day, the last thing I want is a pile of dishes.

Since everything cooks in one pan, I only have to wash that one item. This reduces the time I spend scrubbing pots and pans after dinner.

I also save on dishwater, which is nice for the environment and my water bill. Plus, many recipes call for disposable parchment paper, which makes clean-up even easier.

Tips for Perfect One-Pan Chicken Dinners

Making one-pan chicken dinners can be both fun and efficient. With the right techniques, you can create delicious meals without the mess. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience.

Choosing the Right Pan

The pan you use makes a big difference in cooking. I prefer a large, heavy skillet or a sheet pan. This helps to ensure even heat distribution. Look for non-stick options too, as they make cleanup easier.

If you’re using a skillet, opt for one with high sides. This prevents splatter and gives you more cooking space. For sheet pan meals, choose one that fits your oven perfectly. This way, you can avoid overcrowding. Stick to a single layer for the meat and veggies to ensure they cook evenly.

Balancing Flavors

Balancing flavors is essential for a tasty one-pan chicken dinner.

I start by seasoning the chicken well with salt, pepper, and herbs like oregano or thyme. This boosts the overall taste.

Next, I think about the veggies.

Choose a mix of colors and textures. For example, combining sweet potatoes, broccoli, and bell peppers not only looks appealing but also adds flavor.

A splash of something acidic—like lemon juice or balsamic vinegar—at the end can brighten up the dish. It enhances all the flavors and makes everything pop.

With these tips, I find that my one-pan dinners turn out delicious every time!