Welcome to one of my absolute favorite weeknight dinners – the parmesan crusted chicken sheet pan dinner! This dish is the epitome of comfort food, bringing together the wholesome goodness of chicken and vibrant vegetables, all seamlessly baked together on a single sheet pan. Trust me, there’s something magical about the way the flavors mingle while they roast, creating a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen and makes everyone feel right at home.
What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. You don’t need any fancy techniques or long hours in the kitchen. Just a few simple steps and some basic ingredients, and you’ve got a delicious meal that’ll impress your family without overwhelming you. I remember the first time I made this dish; my kids were amazed by the golden, crispy chicken and the colorful veggies. It quickly became a regular in our dinner rotation, and I bet it’ll do the same for you! So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this comforting, fuss-free recipe that’s sure to bring smiles all around the table.
Ingredients List
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this fantastic parmesan crusted chicken sheet pan dinner. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These are the stars of our dish! Make sure they’re thawed and ready to go.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: This cheesy goodness adds a savory depth. Freshly grated is ideal, but pre-grated works too!
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: Regular or panko breadcrumbs will give that lovely crunch, so choose whichever you prefer.
- 2 cups mixed vegetables: I love using a colorful mix like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers. You can use whatever you have on hand!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This helps keep everything moist and adds flavor. A splash of melted butter can work here too!
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For that delightful aroma and flavor punch.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings warmth to the dish.
- Salt and pepper: To taste; these are essential for enhancing all those delicious flavors.
Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your family’s preferences or dietary needs. Enjoy the cooking adventure!
How to Prepare Parmesan Crusted Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner
Now that you have your ingredients, let’s get cooking! Making this parmesan crusted chicken sheet pan dinner is straightforward and fun. Follow these steps for a delightful meal that will have the whole family asking for seconds!
Prepping the Ingredients
First things first, let’s get everything ready. Start by washing your mixed vegetables thoroughly. If you’re using broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers, chop them into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and makes for easy eating! Next, take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with a paper towel. This little step helps the coating stick better. If the breasts are particularly thick, you might want to butterfly them by slicing them in half horizontally. This makes them cook through faster and helps them stay juicy.
Coating the Chicken
Now, it’s time to bring on the flavor! In a large bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together until it’s well blended. Pour some olive oil into a small bowl, then take each chicken breast and coat it lightly with the oil. This not only adds flavor but also helps the cheese mixture stick like magic. Now, dip the oiled chicken into your cheesy breadcrumb mixture, making sure it’s evenly coated on both sides. Don’t be shy here; the more, the better!
Assembling the Sheet Pan
With your chicken nicely coated, it’s time to put everything on the sheet pan. Lay the coated chicken breasts on one side of the pan, leaving room for the vegetables. On the other side, spread out your beautiful mixed veggies. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the vegetables, and sprinkle a little salt and pepper to taste. This helps them caramelize beautifully in the oven. Now, everything’s ready to go into the oven! Pop it in at 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and breathe in that heavenly aroma as it cooks!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re all set to make this delicious parmesan crusted chicken sheet pan dinner, here are some handy tips to ensure everything turns out perfectly!
First, don’t rush the prep work. Take your time washing and cutting the vegetables, as they’ll roast better when they’re of uniform size. If you have any leftover veggies in your fridge, throw them in! Zucchini, asparagus, or even sweet potatoes can pair beautifully with the chicken.
When it comes to coating the chicken, make sure to press the breadcrumb mixture onto the chicken firmly. This will help it stick during cooking and create that lovely crunchy crust. And remember, if you’re not a fan of garlic powder, feel free to swap it out for onion powder or even some fresh minced garlic for a different flavor.
One common pitfall is overcrowding the pan. If you have too much on there, the chicken and veggies won’t roast properly and could end up steaming instead. If you have a larger batch, use two pans! Lastly, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken nice and juicy.
With these simple tips, you’re well on your way to a fabulous meal that everyone will love!
Nutritional Information
Before we dig into this delicious parmesan crusted chicken sheet pan dinner, it’s good to know a bit about the nutrition. Keep in mind that the values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these are just typical estimates for one serving of the dish.
Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, with 15 grams of fat, 30 grams of protein, and 20 grams of carbohydrates. You’ll also find about 600 milligrams of sodium and 3 grams of sugar. This meal is not only comforting but also gives you a nice dose of protein to keep you satisfied!
If you’re watching your dietary intake, feel free to adjust ingredients to better suit your needs. For instance, using less cheese or opting for lower-sodium vegetables can help make it even healthier. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
FAQ Section
Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely! One of the best parts about this parmesan crusted chicken sheet pan dinner is its flexibility. You can use any vegetables you have on hand or what’s in season. Zucchini, asparagus, green beans, or even cherry tomatoes all work wonderfully. Just remember to cut them into similar sizes to ensure even cooking. So, feel free to get creative and make it your own!
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Great question! To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, the best test is to check its internal temperature. You’ll want it to reach 165°F (75°C) for safety. If you don’t have a meat thermometer, look for other signs: the juices should run clear when you cut into it, and the chicken should no longer be pink in the center. Trust me, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be a pro at knowing when it’s just right!
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can! If you’re busy during the week, prepping this dish in advance can save you a lot of time. You can coat the chicken and chop your vegetables a day ahead. Just store them in the fridge and pop everything on the sheet pan when you’re ready to cook. You might want to let the chicken sit at room temperature for a few minutes before baking to ensure even cooking. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze while still letting you enjoy a comforting, homemade meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 45 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked on a single sheet pan, cleanup is a breeze, leaving you more time to relax.
- Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of crispy Parmesan chicken and tender roasted vegetables creates a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe with different veggies, seasonings, or even swap the chicken for tofu, catering to your family’s preferences.
- Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein and nutrients, this recipe is a wholesome choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Serving Suggestions
To make your parmesan crusted chicken sheet pan dinner even more delightful, consider pairing it with some tasty side dishes or accompaniments. A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that perfectly complements the savory chicken and veggies.
If you’re in the mood for something warm, try a side of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes. Both are fantastic for soaking up any juices from the chicken. A simple garlic bread or dinner rolls could also work wonders, providing that comforting touch we all love.
Don’t forget about a delightful dipping sauce! A zesty marinara or a tangy ranch dressing can elevate the meal even further. With these simple additions, your dinner will feel complete and satisfying, making it a wonderful experience for you and your loved ones!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers from your delicious parmesan crusted chicken sheet pan dinner is easy and ensures you can enjoy this comforting meal again! Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It should keep nicely in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken and vegetables in a freezer-safe container, where they can last for about 2-3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is simple! You can pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too! Just be sure to cover the dish to retain moisture. Enjoy those comforting flavors all over again, without any fuss!
For more information on the health benefits of vegetables, you can check out Healthline. Additionally, for tips on cooking chicken safely, visit USDA Food Safety.
Print
Parmesan Crusted Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner: 5 Comforting Steps
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Parmesan crusted chicken sheet pan dinner is a comforting and easy meal that brings flavors together in one dish.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots, bell peppers)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Coat each chicken breast with olive oil and then dip into the cheese mixture.
- Place the coated chicken on a sheet pan.
- Arrange the mixed vegetables around the chicken on the sheet pan.
- Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the vegetables.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- You can substitute chicken with firm tofu for a vegetarian meal.
- Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with vegetables
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: parmesan crusted chicken, sheet pan dinner, easy chicken recipes, comfort food
