Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Sheet Pan Lemon Herb Chicken is not only bursting with bright, fresh flavors but is also incredibly easy to make. The chicken stays juicy and tender thanks to the lemon and herb marinade, while the potatoes and tomatoes roast to perfection alongside it. The simplicity of this recipe, combined with its robust flavors, makes it a family favorite and an ideal choice for those busy days when you want a delicious, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
3 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 2 lemons
Zest of 1 lemon
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 pound baby potatoes, halved
1 cup cherry tomatoes
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare the Marinade:

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Marinate the Chicken:

Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or bowl, and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the bowl, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor).

4. Prepare the Vegetables:

While the chicken is marinating, prepare the vegetables. In a separate bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on one side of the prepared baking sheet.

5. Assemble the Sheet Pan:

Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the refrigerator. Nestle the chicken breasts alongside the potatoes on the baking sheet. Add the cherry tomatoes to the other side of the sheet, ensuring everything is in a single layer for even cooking.
Pour any leftover marinade from the chicken over the veggies for extra flavor.

6. Bake:

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the potatoes are tender and golden.

7. Garnish and Serve:

Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Total Time: 1 hour
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or onions to the sheet pan for extra flavor and color.
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the marinade for a bit of heat.
Use Bone-In Chicken: If you prefer bone-in chicken, adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked through, which may take an additional 10-15 minutes.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, basil, or thyme for a customized flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great for this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through than breasts.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) to be fully cooked.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and prepare the vegetables. When ready to cook, simply assemble and bake.

What can I serve this dish with?

This dish is great on its own, but you can serve it with a side of steamed vegetables, a light salad, or over rice or quinoa for a more filling meal.

Can I make this recipe in a sheet pan with a smaller size?

Yes! You can scale down the ingredients to fit a smaller sheet pan, but be sure to keep the chicken and vegetables in a single layer for even cooking.

Conclusion

Sheet Pan Lemon Herb Chicken is the ultimate easy dinner. With juicy, flavorful chicken, roasted potatoes, and fresh tomatoes, this one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights, making cleanup a breeze while still providing a healthy, hearty dish. The zesty lemon and herb marinade infuses the chicken with delicious flavors, while the potatoes and tomatoes roast beautifully alongside. This simple yet flavorful dish is sure to become a regular on your dinner rotation!

Sheet Pan Lemon Herb Chicken