15 One-Pan Chicken Dinners Ready In 20 Minutes

Busy weeknights don’t have to mean sacrificing flavor or nutrition. With these 15 one-pan chicken dinner recipes, you can whip up delicious meals in just 20 minutes using only one pan for easy cleanup. Perfect for those hectic days when time is tight, these recipes are designed to keep dinner stress-free and satisfying.

Spicy Cajun Chicken and Quinoa

This Spicy Cajun Chicken and Quinoa dish is a flavorful and quick meal that packs a punch! With its zesty Cajun seasoning and tender chicken, it’s perfect for anyone craving a little heat. Plus, quinoa adds a nutritious twist, making it a wholesome option for dinner.

Making this dish is a breeze; you can whip it up in just 20 minutes! The combination of juicy chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and fluffy quinoa creates a delightful one-pan meal that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon, juiced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the sliced bell pepper to the skillet and cook for an additional 3 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the quinoa and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
4. Remove from heat, add lemon juice, and mix well. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

BBQ Chicken with Sweet Potatoes

This BBQ Chicken with Sweet Potatoes is a delightful and simple dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender chicken thighs are cooked to perfection with a sweet and tangy BBQ glaze that pairs beautifully with roasted sweet potatoes. The combination of the smoky flavors from the BBQ sauce and the natural sweetness of the potatoes makes every bite a treat.

What makes this recipe even better is how easy it is to prepare. Just toss everything in one pan, and you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in just 20 minutes. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful meal without the fuss!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until well coated.
3. Arrange the sweet potatoes in a single layer in a large oven-safe skillet. Place the chicken thighs on top and brush them generously with BBQ sauce.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender.
5. Once done, remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Spinach

Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Spinach is a delightful dish that brings together juicy chicken breasts and a creamy sauce bursting with vibrant flavors. The combination of fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes creates a comforting meal that is both satisfying and quick to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe can be on your table in just 20 minutes!

This dish boasts a rich, savory taste with a hint of garlic and a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the tender chicken. It’s simple enough for a beginner cook, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. Serve it over pasta, rice, or alongside crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce!

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cherry tomatoes. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften. Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted.
3. Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the skillet, mixing well to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.
5. Serve warm, garnished with extra spinach or Parmesan if desired.

Honey Mustard Chicken and Broccoli

This Honey Mustard Chicken and Broccoli is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce. The bright green broccoli adds a fresh crunch, making it not only tasty but also visually appealing.

What makes this recipe a winner is its simplicity and speed. In just 20 minutes, you can have a wholesome meal ready, perfect for busy weeknights. The flavors blend beautifully, creating a dish that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.
3. Add the Sauce: Pour the honey mustard sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce is heated through.
4. Steam the Broccoli: While the chicken is cooking, steam the broccoli in a separate pot for about 4-5 minutes until vibrant green and tender.
5. Serve: Plate the chicken topped with the honey mustard sauce and serve alongside the steamed broccoli. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Garlic Butter Chicken and Mushrooms

This Garlic Butter Chicken and Mushrooms dish is a delightful blend of tender chicken breasts and savory mushrooms, all cooked in a rich, buttery garlic sauce. It’s quick to whip up, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights while still delivering a comforting and satisfying meal.

The garlic butter sauce infuses the chicken with incredible flavor, and the mushrooms add an earthy touch that complements the dish beautifully. The best part? It can all be made in one pan, keeping cleanup to a minimum!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups mixed mushrooms (cremini and button)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter along with the mushrooms and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms are tender.
3. Return the chicken to the skillet, pour in the chicken broth, and sprinkle with thyme. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your tasty, one-pan meal!

Buffalo Chicken with Celery and Carrots

Buffalo Chicken with Celery and Carrots is a quick and tasty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe delivers a zesty flavor thanks to the bold buffalo sauce, while the crisp celery and carrots add a refreshing crunch. It’s not only easy to prepare, but it also packs a punch of flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

This one-pan meal comes together in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those hectic evenings. Simply toss your chicken in the spicy sauce, add the veggies, and let the oven do the work. It’s a simple yet satisfying dinner that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1 cup buffalo sauce
• 2 cups celery, chopped
• 2 cups carrots, cut into sticks
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the chicken breasts with buffalo sauce until fully coated.
3. On a baking sheet, arrange the coated chicken breasts and surround them with chopped celery and carrot sticks.
4. Drizzle the veggies with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6. Serve hot, drizzled with any remaining buffalo sauce for extra kick!

Coconut Curry Chicken with Rice

This Coconut Curry Chicken with Rice is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken cooked in a creamy, coconut-infused curry sauce. The mix of spices delivers a warm and inviting flavor, perfect for a quick dinner option. Best of all, it can be made in just 20 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights.

The combination of coconut milk and curry powder creates a rich, comforting sauce that pairs perfectly with fluffy rice. Not only is this meal easy to whip up, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup basmati rice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the diced onion and garlic to the pan, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Stir in the curry powder, followed by the coconut milk and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken for about 5 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, cook the basmati rice according to package instructions.
5. Once the curry is ready, serve it over a bed of fluffy rice and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Pesto Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes

Pesto chicken with cherry tomatoes is a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken breasts with the fresh, vibrant flavors of basil pesto and sweet, juicy tomatoes. This recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also brings a burst of color and taste to your dinner table.

The rich, herbaceous notes of the pesto complement the succulent chicken perfectly, while the cherry tomatoes add a refreshing touch. In just 20 minutes, you can create a satisfying meal that feels gourmet without any fuss. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner option that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup basil pesto
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and place them in the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Once the chicken is cooked, spread the basil pesto evenly over the top of each piece.
4. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes are slightly softened.
5. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Asparagus

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Asparagus is a refreshing and zesty dish that packs a punch of flavor while being incredibly easy to whip up. The tender chicken, marinated in a bright lemon-garlic sauce, pairs beautifully with crisp asparagus, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.

This recipe highlights the natural flavors of the ingredients, offering a burst of citrus that complements the savory chicken. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a simple meal solution that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and dried oregano.
2. Add the chicken to the pan and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through.
3. In the last few minutes of cooking, add minced garlic and the asparagus to the pan. Sauté until the asparagus is tender.
4. Pour lemon juice and zest over the chicken and asparagus, allowing the flavors to meld for 1-2 minutes.
5. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Teriyaki Chicken with Snap Peas

This Teriyaki Chicken with Snap Peas is a delightful dish that combines sweetness and umami flavors to create a satisfying meal. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners when you’re short on time but still want something tasty.

The juicy chicken pieces are coated in a savory teriyaki sauce, while the snap peas add a refreshing crunch. Serve it over rice for a complete meal that everyone will love. Best of all, it can be ready in just 20 minutes!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 2 cups snap peas
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice for serving

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, garlic, and ginger. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the snap peas and teriyaki sauce to the pan, and stir until everything is well coated. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the snap peas are tender but still crisp.
3. Season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot over cooked rice.

Italian Herb Chicken with Zucchini

This Italian Herb Chicken with Zucchini is a delightful and quick meal that brings the flavors of Italy right to your dinner table. With juicy chicken thighs marinated in aromatic herbs and grilled to perfection, every bite is bursting with savory goodness. The zucchini adds a fresh, vibrant touch and cooks quickly, making this dish a breeze to prepare.

Not only is this recipe simple to make, but it’s also a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup for you! It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve it up with a sprinkle of fresh basil for an extra pop of flavor!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs
• 2 zucchinis, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat well. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes.
2. Prepare the Pan: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through.
3. Add the Zucchini: Once the chicken is nearly done, add the sliced zucchini to the pan. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the zucchini is tender.
4. Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil, and enjoy your flavorful Italian Herb Chicken with Zucchini!

Szechuan Chicken with Bell Peppers

Szechuan Chicken with Bell Peppers is a quick, spicy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken pieces paired with crunchy bell peppers, this meal bursts with flavor and color. The Szechuan sauce adds a delightful kick, making each bite exciting yet comforting.

This recipe is super simple to whip up in just 20 minutes, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right at home. The combination of savory chicken and vibrant veggies will leave your taste buds dancing!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons Szechuan sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they are slightly tender but still crisp.
5. Pour in the Szechuan sauce and soy sauce, stirring to coat the chicken and peppers.
6. Thicken the sauce by adding the cornstarch mixture, stirring until it reaches your desired consistency.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot over rice or noodles.

Mediterranean Chicken with Olives

This Mediterranean chicken with olives is a quick and tasty dish that brings bold flavors to your dinner table. With juicy chicken thighs simmered in a savory olive marinade, it offers a delightful taste of the Mediterranean without the fuss.

Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe takes just 20 minutes from start to finish. The combination of tender chicken and briny olives creates a deliciously satisfying meal that pairs well with rice or crusty bread.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, skin-on
• 1 cup black olives, pitted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lemon, juiced
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and oregano.
2. Add the chicken to the skillet, skin side down, and sear for about 5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and olives to the skillet, then pour in lemon juice. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Lemon Thyme Chicken with Green Beans

Lemon Thyme Chicken with Green Beans is a delightful dish that brings together the zesty brightness of lemon and the earthy flavor of thyme. This recipe is not only packed with flavor, but it’s also quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

The juicy chicken pairs perfectly with crisp green beans, all cooked together in one pan for minimal cleanup. The result is a deliciously simple meal that’s sure to impress your family or guests.

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 2 cups green beans, trimmed
• 1/2 cup chicken broth

Instructions

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and sear for about 5 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
3. Once browned, add the lemon slices and green beans to the pan. Pour in the chicken broth.
4. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for another 10 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the green beans are tender.
5. Serve warm, drizzling the pan juices over the chicken and beans for extra flavor.

Balsamic Chicken with Brussels Sprouts

Balsamic chicken with Brussels sprouts is a delightful, tangy dish that comes together in just 20 minutes. Featuring tender chicken breasts glazed with a rich balsamic reduction, the meal is perfectly paired with caramelized Brussels sprouts. This recipe is not only simple to make but also packed with flavor, making it a weeknight favorite.

The sweetness of the balsamic vinegar enhances the savory chicken, while the Brussels sprouts add a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining friends, this one-pan dinner will impress without the hassle!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through.
2. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the Brussels sprouts and garlic. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the sprouts are golden and crisp-tender.
3. Pour the balsamic vinegar into the skillet, stirring to combine with the sprouts. Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the balsamic glaze. Let it simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious one-pan balsamic chicken with Brussels sprouts!