Healthy Lemon Herb Chicken With Roasted Vegetables

Name: Healthy Lemon Herb Chicken With Roasted Vegetables
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; Zest of 1 lemon; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 2 teaspoons dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Wellness Recipes

I love making Healthy Lemon Herb Chicken with Roasted Vegetables on busy weeknights because it's quick and packed with flavor. The tangy lemon and fragrant herbs bring out the natural juiciness of the chicken, while the roasted vegetables add a delightful crunch and a medley of colors to the plate. This dish has become a go-to for my family, and the best part is that it takes just 30 minutes from prep to plate. A wholesome meal that satisfies without being heavy!

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-02-27T14:29:35.414Z

Whenever I make Healthy Lemon Herb Chicken with Roasted Vegetables, I’m reminded of family dinners on warm summer evenings. The fresh ingredients come together beautifully, and the aroma while cooking is simply irresistible. The combination of lemon zest and herbs creates a delightful marinade that infuses the chicken with vibrant flavors. I always marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes for the best results.

One of my favorite tricks is to roast the vegetables alongside the chicken. They soak up the juices and flavors, making them incredibly tasty. I often mix up the vegetables based on what’s in season, using everything from bell peppers to zucchini. Each time I make this dish, it's a new experience, bursting with freshness!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright citrus notes that awaken your taste buds
Colorful and nutritious veggies complement the dish perfectly
Quick preparation makes it ideal for busy weeknights
A healthy option that doesn't sacrifice flavor

Maximizing Flavor Through Marination

Marinating the chicken is one of the crucial steps in enhancing flavor. The combination of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs creates a flavorful bath for the chicken to absorb. Aim for at least 15 minutes of marination, but if time allows, letting it sit for up to two hours in the refrigerator can deepen the flavors significantly. Just make sure to avoid exceeding 24 hours, as the lemon juice can start to 'cook' the chicken, impacting its texture.

If you're in a pinch, consider using a zip-top bag for marination. It not only minimizes cleanup but allows the marinade to coat the chicken evenly. Also, remember that cutting the chicken into smaller pieces can help speed up the marination process while providing more surface area for flavor absorption.

Choosing the Right Vegetables

The vegetables in this dish are not just for color; they play a vital role in the meal's nutritional profile. Broccoli florets provide a good source of vitamins K and C, while cherry tomatoes add a juicy burst of flavor. For a different twist, feel free to swap in seasonal veggies like zucchini or asparagus, adjusting the cooking time as needed to ensure everything roasts evenly without becoming mushy.

When prepping the vegetables, try cutting them into uniform sizes to promote even cooking. For instance, halving the cherry tomatoes provides a lovely caramelization on their cut sides, infusing a rich flavor into the dish. If you prefer a bit of sweetness, consider adding sliced carrots or sweet potatoes, but be cautious; these may require an additional roasting time.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon
2 teaspoons dried oregano
2 teaspoons dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Vegetables

2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or a dish and pour the marinade over them. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Prepare the Vegetables

On a baking sheet, toss the broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Bake the Chicken and Vegetables

Place the marinated chicken on the baking sheet with the vegetables. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with the roasted vegetables.

Pro Tips

Add your favorite herbs for a personalized touch, or substitute different vegetables based on seasonality.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Healthy Lemon Herb Chicken and roasted vegetables make for excellent leftovers. Once the dish has cooled, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping chicken and vegetables together helps retain flavor. However, for best results, consider reheating the chicken separately to prevent it from drying out. A brief stint in the microwave, covered, at medium power will warm it through without overcooking.

Should you wish to freeze any leftovers, they can be stored in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven to regain that lovely roasted texture and flavor. You may want to add a splash of fresh lemon juice to brighten up the flavors once more.

Serving Suggestions

For a balanced meal, serve this dish alongside a bed of quinoa or brown rice. Both grains elevate the dish's heartiness while complementing the lemon-herb flavor profile. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, adds a pop of color and freshness right before serving.

If you're hosting a gathering, consider doubling the recipe and serving it family-style. This allows guests to help themselves, making the meal feel more communal. Pair the dish with a light, citrusy salad or a glass of chilled white wine to balance the savory notes of the chicken and veggies.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes to the marinade for a kick!

→ What vegetables work well with this recipe?

Feel free to use asparagus, carrots, or zucchini; just ensure they are cut uniformly for even cooking.

→ Can I prepare the chicken in advance?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.