Name: Sheet Pan Lemon Pepper Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 large lemon (sliced into thin rounds); 1.25 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces); 1 pound fresh green beans (trimmed and halved); ½ of one large or 1 medium red onion (sliced into strips or small chunks); 2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 to 2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning blend; 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste); ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste); 1 bunch fresh parsley (optional for garnishing); to taste Parmesan cheese (optional finishing touch); to taste garlic (optional finishing touch); to taste soy sauce (optional finishing touch); to taste chili garlic sauce (optional finishing touch)

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There’s something magical about a dish that combines vibrant flavors and simple preparation, and that’s exactly what you’ll find in Sheet Pan Lemon Pepper Chicken. Picture this: after a long day, you want a meal that’s not only quick but also bursting with freshness and zest. I often find myself reaching for this recipe when I crave something light yet satisfying. The bright notes of lemon paired with the savory flavors of chicken create a dish that’s truly irresistible. Plus, the convenience of using just one baking sheet means less mess and more time to unwind after dinner.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
35 g

Diet:
Keto

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Chef’s Knife, Baking Sheet, Blender

Why This Sheet Pan Lemon Pepper Chicken Is a Winner

Effortless Preparation

One of the best things about Sheet Pan Lemon Pepper Chicken is how simple it is to prepare. With just a few key ingredients, you can whip this up in no time, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or unexpected guests. It’s a hands-free recipe, allowing you to focus on the things that matter most while dinner cooks itself in the oven.

Flavorful and Fresh

The combination of lemon, chicken, and vegetables is a match made in heaven. The citrus not only brightens the dish but also keeps the chicken moist and juicy. The lemon pepper seasoning adds a delightful kick without overwhelming the palate, making it appealing to everyone at the table.

Healthy and Wholesome

This dish is a wholesome choice, packed with lean protein and vibrant veggies. The green beans add crunch and color, ensuring you’re not just eating chicken but also incorporating plant-based nutrients into your meal. It’s a mindful way to enjoy a fulfilling dinner without any guilt.

Endless Customization

What I love about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out the green beans for other seasonal vegetables or adjust the spices to suit your taste. It’s truly a canvas for creativity in the kitchen, making it a staple in my recipe collection.

Impressive Presentation

When you serve Sheet Pan Lemon Pepper Chicken, you’ll be amazed at how beautifully everything comes together. The vibrant colors of the lemon, chicken, and vegetables not only taste good but also look stunning on the table. It’s a dish that impresses visually, perfect for gatherings or family dinners.

Quick Cleanup

Using one baking sheet means cleanup is a breeze. After enjoying your delicious meal, you won’t be faced with a stack of pots and pans. Just a quick wash of the baking sheet, and you’re done!

Shopping List for Sheet Pan Lemon Pepper Chicken

When it comes to preparing Sheet Pan Lemon Pepper Chicken, the selection of fresh ingredients is key to achieving that vibrant flavor. Each component plays an essential role in creating a balanced meal. The standout players include juicy chicken, fresh green beans, and the zingy lemon, all harmonizing beautifully together.

1 large lemon, sliced into thin rounds
1.25 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and halved
½ of one large or 1 medium red onion, sliced into strips or small chunks
2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil
1 to 2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning blend
1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
Fresh parsley, optional for garnishing
Optionally finish with Parmesan cheese, garlic, soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, etc.

Preparation Steps for Sheet Pan Lemon Pepper Chicken

Making Sheet Pan Lemon Pepper Chicken is not just easy; it’s an enjoyable cooking experience. You’ll find the steps straightforward, allowing you to focus on the incredible flavors that will soon fill your home. Let’s dive into these steps and cook up something delicious!

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This high heat is crucial for achieving that perfectly roasted flavor and crispy edges. While the oven heats, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with aluminum foil. This simple step makes cleanup a breeze.
Distribute the lemon slices evenly around the baking sheet. The lemon will infuse its bright flavor into the chicken and veggies as they bake, creating a wonderful aroma that fills your kitchen.
Add the bite-sized pieces of chicken to the sheet. Space them out to ensure even cooking. This is where the magic begins as they’ll absorb the flavors from the lemon and seasonings.
Now, toss in the trimmed and halved green beans along with the sliced red onion. Adding them at this stage allows the vegetables to roast perfectly alongside the chicken.
Drizzle the entire mixture generously with olive oil to enhance flavor and ensure everything roasts beautifully. Next, season with lemon pepper seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. This combination of spices will elevate the dish.
Carefully toss everything together with tongs until each piece is well coated in oil and spices. Visualize the vibrant colors and the aromatic blend of flavors ready to be baked.
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and set your timer for about 15 minutes. The key here is to keep an eye on the chicken as it cooks. You want it to be juicy and cooked through without drying out.
About halfway through baking, give everything a gentle toss to ensure even cooking. The lemon slices will maintain their flavor while allowing the chicken and vegetables to mingle beautifully.
Check for doneness as you approach the 15-minute mark. The chicken should be golden and reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. The green beans should be tender yet still vibrant green.
Once done, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. You may also finish with any optional toppings like Parmesan cheese or a dash of soy sauce for an extra flavor boost.

Things Worth Knowing

Preheating is essential: Always preheat your oven to achieve the optimal cooking temperature. This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and retains moisture.
Use a meat thermometer: To guarantee that your chicken is cooked thoroughly, use a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Watch the veggies: Different vegetables may cook at varying rates. If you prefer your green beans crispy, add them later in the cooking process.
Resting time matters: Let your chicken rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. This helps in redistributing the juices, making each bite tender and juicy.

Make It Your Own

While Sheet Pan Lemon Pepper Chicken is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your taste. Here are some tips for you to consider:

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze the chicken and vegetables uncooked. Just assemble everything, freeze, and bake directly from frozen.
Pairing: Serve your Sheet Pan Lemon Pepper Chicken with a side of rice or quinoa for a filling meal. A fresh salad would also complement the dish nicely.
Spice it up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
Vegetable variations: Feel free to substitute green beans with other vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers, depending on what you have on hand.

Serving Ideas for Sheet Pan Lemon Pepper Chicken

When it comes to serving Sheet Pan Lemon Pepper Chicken, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

Family Dinner: This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner. Pair it with a simple garden salad and a loaf of crusty bread for a well-rounded meal.
Weekend Gatherings: Impress your guests at weekend get-togethers. Serve it as part of a buffet-style meal, allowing everyone to help themselves.
Meal Prep: This recipe is fantastic for meal prep. Portion out servings for the week, making busy weekdays a whole lot easier.
Seasonal Celebrations: Use it as a light option during warmer months or special occasions when fresh flavors are a must.
Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in the fridge and enjoy them the next day for lunch. The flavors deepen and make for a great next-day meal.

FAQ

Absolutely! Using skin-on chicken will give you a richer flavor and a crispy texture. Just keep in mind that it may require a few extra minutes of cooking time to ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly. Be sure to monitor the internal temperature to avoid overcooking.

If you don’t have green beans on hand, feel free to substitute them with other vegetables. Broccoli, bell peppers, or asparagus would work wonderfully in this dish. Just adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you choose to ensure they retain their color and crunch.

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance. Simply chop the vegetables and marinate the chicken the night before. Store everything in the fridge, and when you’re ready to cook, just assemble and pop it in the oven. It saves time and makes dinner even more convenient!

Definitely! This recipe is versatile, so feel free to experiment with different seasonings. A touch of garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even some herbs like thyme or rosemary can complement the lemon and chicken beautifully. Tailor it to your taste preferences!

Conclusion

Sheet Pan Lemon Pepper Chicken stands out as a delicious, quick, and visually appealing meal that brings freshness to your dinner table. It’s a wonderfully simple way to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the burst of flavors for yourself. You’ll find it becoming a go-to dish that everyone loves.