01 -
First things first, get your oven preheating to a cozy 400°F (200°C). Then, grab your chicken breasts – I like to pat them super dry, it helps them get that nice golden crust. Slice them into roughly 1-inch pieces; too small and they'll vanish, too big and they'll take forever. Next, chop your broccoli, bell peppers, and red onion into similar bite-sized chunks. I always aim for consistency here, it helps everything cook evenly. This is where I sometimes forget to line my sheet pan, oops!
02 -
In a big bowl, toss all your chopped veggies and chicken. Drizzle generously with olive oil – don't be shy, it helps everything roast beautifully. Now, for the magic: add your minced garlic, lemon zest, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Get in there with your hands, honestly! Mix it all up until everything is beautifully coated. I love how the colors pop, and the smell of the herbs and lemon starts to fill the kitchen even before it hits the oven.
03 -
Now, grab a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup – seriously, future you will thank you! Spread your chicken and veggie mixture out in a single layer. This is CRUCIAL for roasting, not steaming. If it’s too crowded, grab a second sheet pan. I've made that mistake more times than I can count, and it always results in soggy veggies. Give everything a little space; it’s like giving them room to breathe and crisp up.
04 -
Pop that sheet pan into your preheated oven. Let it roast for about 20-25 minutes. Around the halfway mark (about 10-12 minutes in), give everything a good stir or flip with a spatula. You want those beautiful caramelized edges on your veggies and that golden hue on your chicken. I usually peek in, and if I see things getting too dark too fast, I might lower the temp a tiny bit, or shift things around.
05 -
Once your chicken is cooked through (no pink bits, please!) and the veggies are tender-crisp with those lovely browned spots, pull the pan out. Squeeze fresh lemon juice all over everything – this really brightens up the flavors and adds a fantastic zing. Honestly, it’s a little burst of sunshine! I sometimes forget this step in my excitement, but it makes such a difference.
06 -
Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, if you have some. It adds a lovely fresh pop of color and flavor. Give it a quick taste, adjust any seasonings if needed (maybe a touch more salt or a grind of pepper?). Serve it up hot, right from the pan! It's so satisfying to see all those vibrant colors. This is one of those Healthy Clean Eating Dinner Ideas that looks as good as it tastes.