This easy one pan chicken recipe brings everything you love about home cooking — golden chicken, tender vegetables, and a rich, savory glaze — all in a single skillet. Quick to make, easy to clean, and delicious enough for Sunday dinner.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Easy One Pan Chicken Recipe
When life gets busy, this easy one pan chicken recipe becomes your secret weapon.
In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a hearty, balanced meal that tastes like it took hours.
- Only one pan to wash — less mess, more flavor
- Family-approved flavors with pantry staples
- Works with chicken thighs or breasts
- Great for meal prep or last-minute dinners
If you love this kind of fuss-free meal, you’ll also enjoy our Creamy Chicken Orzo for another comforting one-pan option.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, wholesome ingredients that create deep, homestyle flavor.- Chicken thighs or breasts — 4 pieces (about 1 ½ lbs)
- Olive oil — 2 tablespoons
- Garlic cloves — 3, minced
- Onion — 1 medium, sliced
- Bell peppers — 2, sliced (any color)
- Cherry tomatoes — 1 cup, halved
- Chicken broth — ½ cup
- Lemon juice — 1 tablespoon
- Paprika — 1 teaspoon
- Salt — ¾ teaspoon
- Black pepper — ½ teaspoon
- Fresh parsley — for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Each step of this easy one pan chicken recipe layers more flavor, from the golden sear to the silky sauce that forms in the pan.
Step 1 — Prep and Heat
Warm a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and let it shimmer.
Step 2 — Sear the Chicken
Pat chicken dry, then season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3 — Sauté Aromatics
In the same pan, add onions and garlic. Cook 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
Scrape up any browned bits — that’s pure flavor.
Step 4 — Add Vegetables
Toss in sliced bell peppers and tomatoes.
Cook 3–4 minutes until slightly softened and glossy.
Step 5 — Build the Sauce
Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice. Stir gently, scraping the bottom to release flavor.
Step 6 — Simmer Together
Return the chicken to the pan, reduce heat to medium, and cover.
Simmer for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens and chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.
Step 7 — Garnish and Serve
Top with fresh parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon.
Serve directly from the skillet for that rustic, cozy feel.
You’ll have juicy chicken, tender veggies, and a light, flavorful sauce that ties it all together.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use bone-in thighs for richer flavor.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes if you like heat.
- Deglaze the pan with white wine instead of broth for a restaurant-style sauce.
- Don’t overcook the veggies — keep them vibrant and crisp-tender.
This is the kind of dinner that earns repeat requests.
Serving Idea
This easy one pan chicken recipe pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or fresh salad.
For a comfort-food meal, try it alongside our Quick Chicken Recipe or crusty bread to soak up that lemony sauce.
It’s also perfect with roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli for a lighter plate.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth to keep it juicy.
It freezes well too — just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations You Can Try
Turn this easy one pan chicken recipe into something new each week:
- Add baby potatoes and skip the rice for a full meal in one pan.
- Stir in cream or coconut milk for a creamy sauce twist.
- Use Italian seasoning and mozzarella for a Tuscan version.
If you love oven-style variations, check out our Baked Chicken Recipes for more inspiration.
Easy One Pan Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Add sliced onion and garlic to the pan. Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add bell peppers and cherry tomatoes. Cook for another 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.
- Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice. Scrape the bottom to deglaze the pan.
- Return chicken to the pan. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes until sauce thickens and chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot straight from the skillet.
Nutrition
Notes
Did you make this recipe? Share a photo and tag us — Follow us at @chopped-beef_official for more
Share a photo and tag us — Follow us at @chopped-beef_official for moreFrequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes! Just reduce cooking time slightly — breasts cook faster than thighs.
Can I make this dairy-free or keto?
Absolutely. Use olive oil and skip creamy additions for a naturally low-carb, dairy-free meal.
Can I meal prep this recipe?
Yes — portion it into containers with rice or veggies. It reheats beautifully for quick lunches.
Can I bake it instead?
You can! After searing, bake covered at 400°F for 15–20 minutes until done.
Conclusion
This easy one pan chicken recipe proves that simple really can be spectacular.
From prep to plate in under 30 minutes, it’s flavorful, family-friendly, and mess-free.
Let’s Stay Connected
If you enjoyed this recipe, come hang out with me on Instagram and Pinterest for more cozy dinners and easy weeknight ideas.
Save this recipe and tag me if you try it at home!