One Pan Lemon Herb Chicken Simple and Savory Meal

Name: One Pan Lemon Herb Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 large lemons, zest and juice; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; to taste salt and pepper; 2 cups baby spinach; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup chicken broth

November 2, 2025October 18, 2025 by Chloe

Looking for a simple, tasty dinner? One Pan Lemon Herb Chicken is your answer! This dish brings vibrant flavors and easy prep together in one skillet. With juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and a zesty marinade, dinner is quick and stress-free. In this post, I will guide you through each step to make this savory meal shine. Let’s dive in and get cooking!

Why I Love This Recipe

Simple Preparation: This recipe requires minimal prep time with just a quick marinade and one pan, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Bright and Fresh Flavors: The combination of lemon and herbs creates a refreshing taste that elevates the chicken to a whole new level.
One-Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in one pan not only saves time on cleanup but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Nutritious and Delicious: This dish is packed with protein and veggies, making it a healthy choice without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients

To make One Pan Lemon Herb Chicken, you need simple yet fresh ingredients. Each part plays a role in creating rich flavor and juicy chicken. Here’s what you’ll need:

List of Ingredients

– Chicken

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– Marinade Components

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– Zest and juice of 2 large lemons

– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)

– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Vegetables

– 2 cups baby spinach

– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

– Seasonings

– 1 cup chicken broth

These ingredients combine to create a bright, savory dish. The chicken soaks up the lemon and herbs, while the spinach and tomatoes add color and nutrition. Using fresh herbs gives the best flavor. If you have dried herbs, they work too! Just use less. This dish is easy to prepare and is perfect for a cozy meal at home.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures even cooking.

Prepare the Marinade

Next, grab a large mixing bowl. Combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, the zest and juice of 2 lemons, 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves, and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh rosemary. Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix all these ingredients well. This marinade brings great flavor to the chicken.

Marinate the Chicken

Now, add 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the bowl. Make sure to coat each piece well with the marinade. Let the chicken sit for about 15 minutes. This step allows the flavors to soak in.

Cooking Process

Sear Chicken in the Skillet

Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear each side for 3-4 minutes until they turn golden brown. This step locks in the juices.

Add Broth and Vegetables

Once the chicken is browned, pour in 1 cup of chicken broth. Add 2 cups of baby spinach and 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken. This adds color and nutrition to the dish.

Bake in the Oven

Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) when done. This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and juicy. After baking, let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, sprinkle with more fresh herbs for a nice touch.

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

Ensuring Chicken is Juicy

To keep your chicken juicy, do not overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to check. Cook until it hits 165°F (75°C). Letting the chicken rest after cooking helps too. It allows the juices to settle. This means every bite is tender and flavorful.

Best Marinade Practices

Marinating is key for great taste. Use fresh lemon juice and zest for bright flavor. I suggest letting the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 15 minutes. If you have time, marinate for a few hours. This allows the flavors to soak in deeply.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing with Sides

When it comes to sides, think simple and fresh. Rice or quinoa works well. They soak up the tasty juices. Roasted vegetables or a green salad also pair nicely. These add color and crunch to your meal.

Garnishing Options

For a nice touch, add fresh herbs on top before serving. Chopped parsley or thyme looks great and tastes good too. You can also sprinkle some lemon zest for extra zing. It brightens up the dish and makes it look appealing.

Pro Tips

Marinate Longer for Flavor: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the fridge.
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs provide a more vibrant flavor profile compared to dried herbs, so opt for fresh thyme and rosemary when possible.
Check Chicken Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety and juiciness.
Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to the skillet for added nutrition and color.

Variations

Alternative Ingredients

You can mix things up with this dish. Try different vegetables for variety. Instead of baby spinach, use kale or zucchini. These add great flavors and nutrients. You can also swap cherry tomatoes for bell peppers or asparagus. Each choice gives a new twist to the meal.

Herbs can change the taste, too. While thyme and rosemary are lovely, you can try basil or oregano. Fresh herbs pack a punch, but dried ones work too. Just use less, as dried herbs are stronger.

Dietary Modifications

If you need a gluten-free meal, this recipe works perfectly. All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Use chicken broth that is labeled gluten-free. This makes sure everyone can enjoy it.

For a low-calorie version, cut down on oil. You can use just one tablespoon instead of two. You can also add more veggies, which keeps the meal filling. Just pay attention to the portion sizes. This way, you enjoy the meal without the extra calories.

Storage Info

Leftovers Storage

Refrigeration Tips

After your meal, cool the chicken to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh for up to three days in the fridge. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing.

Freezing Instructions

For freezing, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Make sure to label the bag with the date.

Reheating Guidelines

Best Methods for Reheating

For the best taste, reheat the chicken in the oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. If you want a quick option, use the microwave. Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover it. Heat in 30-second bursts until warmed.

These methods help maintain the chicken’s juicy texture and flavor. Enjoy every bite of your One Pan Lemon Herb Chicken again!

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is done?

To check if the chicken is done, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). When it’s done, the juices will run clear, not pink. This ensures your meal is safe to eat and full of flavor.

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken overnight. This will deepen the flavors. Just make sure to cover the chicken well in the fridge. If you marinate too long, the acid in the lemon can make the chicken too soft. A good rule is 30 minutes to 12 hours.

What sides go well with One Pan Lemon Herb Chicken?

Many sides pair well with this dish. Here are some ideas:

– Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice soaks up the sauce.

– Quinoa: A healthy, nutty grain that adds texture.

– Vegetables: Steamed broccoli or green beans bring color and crunch.

– Salad: A fresh mixed greens salad adds a light touch.

These options will round out your meal and make it even more delicious.

You learned about the key ingredients and steps to make flavorful One Pan Lemon Herb Chicken. We discussed marinades, cooking tips, and served ideas to elevate your dish.

Make sure to experiment with variations and dietary options to suit your taste. Proper storage helps enjoy leftovers, and reheating keeps your meal delicious. This dish is simple, healthy, and enjoyable. You can create a tasty meal that everyone will lov

$To make One Pan Lemon Herb Chicken, you need simple yet fresh ingredients. Each part plays a role in creating rich flavor and juicy chicken. Here’s what you’ll need: - Chicken - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - Marinade Components - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 3 cloves garlic, minced - Zest and juice of 2 large lemons - 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme) - 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary) - Salt and pepper to taste - Vegetables - 2 cups baby spinach - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - Seasonings - 1 cup chicken broth These ingredients combine to create a bright, savory dish. The chicken soaks up the lemon and herbs, while the spinach and tomatoes add color and nutrition. Using fresh herbs gives the best flavor. If you have dried herbs, they work too! Just use less. This dish is easy to prepare and is perfect for a cozy meal at home. {{ingredient_image_1}} Preheat the Oven Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures even cooking. Prepare the Marinade Next, grab a large mixing bowl. Combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, the zest and juice of 2 lemons, 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves, and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh rosemary. Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix all these ingredients well. This marinade brings great flavor to the chicken. Marinate the Chicken Now, add 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the bowl. Make sure to coat each piece well with the marinade. Let the chicken sit for about 15 minutes. This step allows the flavors to soak in. Sear Chicken in the Skillet Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear each side for 3-4 minutes until they turn golden brown. This step locks in the juices. Add Broth and Vegetables Once the chicken is browned, pour in 1 cup of chicken broth. Add 2 cups of baby spinach and 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken. This adds color and nutrition to the dish. Bake in the Oven Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) when done. This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and juicy. After baking, let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, sprinkle with more fresh herbs for a nice touch. Ensuring Chicken is Juicy To keep your chicken juicy, do not overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to check. Cook until it hits 165°F (75°C). Letting the chicken rest after cooking helps too. It allows the juices to settle. This means every bite is tender and flavorful. Best Marinade Practices Marinating is key for great taste. Use fresh lemon juice and zest for bright flavor. I suggest letting the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 15 minutes. If you have time, marinate for a few hours. This allows the flavors to soak in deeply. Pairing with Sides When it comes to sides, think simple and fresh. Rice or quinoa works well. They soak up the tasty juices. Roasted vegetables or a green salad also pair nicely. These add color and crunch to your meal. Garnishing Options For a nice touch, add fresh herbs on top before serving. Chopped parsley or thyme looks great and tastes good too. You can also sprinkle some lemon zest for extra zing. It brightens up the dish and makes it look appealing. Pro Tips Marinate Longer for Flavor: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the fridge. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs provide a more vibrant flavor profile compared to dried herbs, so opt for fresh thyme and rosemary when possible. Check Chicken Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety and juiciness. Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to the skillet for added nutrition and color. {{image_2}} You can mix things up with this dish. Try different vegetables for variety. Instead of baby spinach, use kale or zucchini. These add great flavors and nutrients. You can also swap cherry tomatoes for bell peppers or asparagus. Each choice gives a new twist to the meal. Herbs can change the taste, too. While thyme and rosemary are lovely, you can try basil or oregano. Fresh herbs pack a punch, but dried ones work too. Just use less, as dried herbs are stronger. If you need a gluten-free meal, this recipe works perfectly. All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Use chicken broth that is labeled gluten-free. This makes sure everyone can enjoy it. For a low-calorie version, cut down on oil. You can use just one tablespoon instead of two. You can also add more veggies, which keeps the meal filling. Just pay attention to the portion sizes. This way, you enjoy the meal without the extra calories. Refrigeration Tips After your meal, cool the chicken to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh for up to three days in the fridge. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing. Freezing Instructions For freezing, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Make sure to label the bag with the date. Best Methods for Reheating For the best taste, reheat the chicken in the oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. If you want a quick option, use the microwave. Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover it. Heat in 30-second bursts until warmed. These methods help maintain the chicken's juicy texture and flavor. Enjoy every bite of your One Pan Lemon Herb Chicken again! To check if the chicken is done, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). When it’s done, the juices will run clear, not pink. This ensures your meal is safe to eat and full of flavor. Yes, you can marinate the chicken overnight. This will deepen the flavors. Just make sure to cover the chicken well in the fridge. If you marinate too long, the acid in the lemon can make the chicken too soft. A good rule is 30 minutes to 12 hours. Many sides pair well with this dish. Here are some ideas: - Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice soaks up the sauce. - Quinoa: A healthy, nutty grain that adds texture. - Vegetables: Steamed broccoli or green beans bring color and crunch. - Salad: A fresh mixed greens salad adds a light touch. These options will round out your meal and make it even more delicious. You learned about the key ingredients and steps to make flavorful One Pan Lemon Herb Chicken. We discussed marinades, cooking tips, and served ideas to elevate your dish. Make sure to experiment with variations and dietary options to suit your taste. Proper storage helps enjoy leftovers, and reheating keeps your meal delicious. This dish is simple, healthy, and enjoyable. You can create a tasty meal that everyone will love!$