Are you ready for a weeknight meal that’s easy and delicious? This Cheesy Chicken Veggie Sheet Pan Dinner is perfect for busy days. With just a few simple steps, you can have a flavorful dish packed with tender chicken and vibrant veggies. Plus, who doesn’t love gooey cheese on top? Join me as I walk you through this quick recipe that your whole family will enjoy! Get your apron on—let’s get cooking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, taking only 35 minutes from prep to plate!
- One Pan Wonder: All the ingredients cook together on a single sheet pan, making cleanup a breeze.
- Flavorful and Healthy: The combination of chicken and colorful veggies is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
- Cheesy Goodness: Who can resist the melty mozzarella cheese that adds a creamy layer of flavor to the dish?
Ingredients
Complete List of Ingredients
To make this cheesy chicken veggie sheet pan dinner, gather these items:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap ingredients based on what you have:
- Chicken: Use thighs if you prefer dark meat.
- Veggies: Carrots or green beans work well instead of broccoli.
- Cheese: Try cheddar or a dairy-free cheese for a twist.
- Olive oil: Avocado oil offers a similar flavor.
- Spices: Use your favorite herbs if you don’t have Italian seasoning.
Recommended Cooking Tools
To make this dish, here are the tools you will need:
- Large baking sheet
- Parchment paper for easy cleanup
- Mixing bowl for the marinade
- Brush for applying the marinade
- Sharp knife for cutting veggies
- Meat thermometer to check chicken doneness
These ingredients and tools will help you create a delicious and easy dinner that is sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. You will need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Next, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy and helps your food not stick.
In a bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This mix will add great flavor to your chicken and veggies. Brush this marinade on both sides of the chicken breasts. Place them in the center of the baking sheet.
Baking the Chicken and Veggies
Now, it’s time to add the veggies. Arrange the broccoli, bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion around the chicken on the baking sheet. Drizzle any leftover marinade over the vegetables. Toss them gently to coat evenly. This step helps all the flavors blend.
Bake your creation in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook and the veggies to soften. It will smell amazing!
Adding the Cheese
After 20 minutes, take the baking sheet out of the oven. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken and vegetables. The cheese adds creaminess and flavor that everyone loves.
Return the baking sheet to the oven. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The cheese should be bubbly and golden brown.
Once it’s done, let the sheet pan dinner rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy this easy and tasty meal!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Marinade
To make a great marinade, use simple ingredients. Olive oil, garlic powder, and spices work well. Start by mixing them in a bowl. This mix adds flavor to the chicken and veggies. Brush the marinade on both sides of the chicken. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to soak in. For a twist, try adding lemon juice or honey. These ingredients add a nice kick and sweetness.
How to Ensure Even Cooking
For even cooking, cut the chicken breasts to a similar size. This gives them the same cooking time. Place veggies around the chicken on the sheet pan. Make sure they are in a single layer. If they overlap, they may steam instead of roast. This can make them soggy. Keep an eye on the cooking time. Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature. It should reach 165°F for safe eating.
Cheese Alternatives and Additions
While mozzarella is tasty, you can switch it up. Try cheddar or gouda for a stronger flavor. You can even mix cheeses for variety. If you want a dairy-free option, use vegan cheese. Nutritional yeast is great for adding a cheesy flavor without dairy. Sprinkle some on top just before serving for extra zest. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses!
Pro Tips
- Marinate for Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking for even more flavorful results.
- Veggie Variety: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like carrots, asparagus, or sweet potatoes based on your preference.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different types of cheese such as cheddar or gouda for a unique twist.
- Resting Time: Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute, making the chicken juicier.
Variations
Using Different Vegetables
You can switch up the veggies in this dish. Try using asparagus, carrots, or cauliflower. These colorful choices add taste and nutrition. Each vegetable cooks a bit differently, so check for doneness. You want them tender but still crisp. Mixing flavors keeps the meal fresh and fun!
Spice Blend Alternatives
Feel free to play with spices. Instead of Italian seasoning, try taco seasoning for a zesty kick. You can also use curry powder for a warm, earthy flavor. Just a little change can make a big difference in taste. Always adjust the amount to suit your taste buds.
Options for a Low-Carb Version
If you’re looking for a low-carb option, skip the potatoes or pastas. Stick to non-starchy veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. You can also use chicken thighs for added flavor. This keeps the meal hearty without the extra carbs. Enjoy the same great taste while sticking to your diet goals!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
After you enjoy your Cheesy Chicken Veggie Sheet Pan Dinner, let the leftovers cool. Place them in an airtight container. You can store the dish in the fridge for up to three days. This keeps the chicken juicy and the veggies crisp.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to eat the leftovers, reheat them in the oven. Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftovers on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warm. You can also use a microwave, but the oven keeps the cheese nice and melty.
Freezing for Later Use
You can freeze this dish too! Make sure it cools down before packing. Use a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. This meal will stay good for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw overnight in the fridge. Then, reheat as described above.
FAQs
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables. They work well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them first. If they are frozen, they may release extra water. This can make the dish soggy. To avoid this, pat them dry with a paper towel before cooking. It will still taste great!
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make this dish dairy-free, simply skip the cheese. You can add more veggies for flavor. Use nutritional yeast to give a cheesy taste without dairy. Also, consider using a dairy-free cheese substitute. Just make sure it melts well. This way, you can still enjoy a tasty meal.
What can I serve with Cheesy Chicken Veggie Sheet Pan Dinner?
This dish is filling, but you can add sides. A fresh salad pairs nicely. You could also serve it with rice or quinoa. These grains soak up the flavors well. If you like bread, garlic bread is a great choice too! Enjoy exploring different sides to complete your meal.
This article covered all you need for a great Cheesy Chicken Veggie Sheet Pan Dinner. We explored the ingredients, substitutions, and essential tools. You learned step-by-step instructions for easy prep and cooking. I shared tips to perfect your dish and variations to suit your taste. Lastly, we discussed storage and answers to common questions.
Cooking can be fun and easy. I hope you try these tips to make your meal special. Enjoy your cookin

Cheesy Chicken Veggie Sheet Pan Dinner
Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 piece bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), sliced
- 1 piece zucchini, sliced
- 1 piece red onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- to taste salt and pepper
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- for garnish fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
- Place the chicken breasts on the baking sheet and brush them with the marinade on both sides.
- Arrange the broccoli, bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion around the chicken on the baking sheet. Drizzle the remaining marinade over the veggies and toss well to coat them evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken and vegetables.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F) and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Once cooked, let it rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley.