Chicken and Green Beans Sheet Pan Meal
One of my go-to dinners for busy weeknights is the Chicken and Green Beans Sheet Pan Meal. It’s easy, quick, and absolutely delicious! Picture this: after a long day at work or running around with the kids, I love coming home to the comforting aroma of chicken roasting in the oven. The best part? Everything is cooked on one sheet pan, which means fewer dishes to wash afterward! As the chicken bathes in flavor, the green beans become tender-crisp, creating a perfect complement. This dish brings together the joy of cooking with the ease of preparation, making it a family favorite that we enjoy time and time again. Whether it’s just me or a crowd, I can always count on this recipe to impress.
Recipe Snapshot
60 mins
0 mins
0 mins
Medium
450 kcal
35 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
30 g
Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet
Why This Chicken and Green Beans Sheet Pan Meal Shines
Convenience at Its Best
Life can get hectic, and that’s why I love the simplicity of the Chicken and Green Beans Sheet Pan Meal. You can toss everything on a single baking sheet, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen. No need to babysit multiple pots on the stove! This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to maximize their time in the kitchen without compromising on flavor.
Flavorful Marinade
The marinade for the chicken is packed with flavor, combining olive oil, lemon juice, and a blend of spices. It seeps into the meat, making every bite juicy and full of zest. By reserving a bit of the marinade for the green beans, you ensure that both components of the meal are harmoniously seasoned.
Healthy and Nutritious
One of the best parts about this meal is its nutritional profile. The use of skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs provides protein and healthy fats, while the fresh green beans add fiber and essential vitamins. This dish is a wholesome option for family dinners without feeling heavy.
Customizable to Your Taste
What I love most is how adaptable this recipe is. Want to switch things up? You can easily add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to the mix. Feel free to play around with the spices too! With the Chicken and Green Beans Sheet Pan Meal, the possibilities are endless.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This recipe is also great for meal prepping! You can prepare the chicken and green beans in advance, marinating them overnight and cooking them when you’re ready. It’s a fantastic way to have a delicious and nutritious meal ready to go during those busy weekdays.
Family Friendly
Kids love it! The crispy skin on the chicken and the tender green beans appeal to even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s a fun meal for everyone to dig into at the dining table. I can always count on seeing happy faces when I serve this dish!
Chicken and Green Beans Sheet Pan Meal Ingredients
The ingredients for the Chicken and Green Beans Sheet Pan Meal are simple yet effective in bringing out delicious flavors. Each component plays a vital role in the dish, from the juicy chicken to the crisp green beans. Together, they create a balanced meal that is satisfying and nourishing.
- 4 very large bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs – The star of the dish, providing rich flavor and protein.
- 1 lb. fresh green beans – Adds a delightful crunch and vibrant color.
Chicken and Green Beans Sheet Pan Meal Instructions
Cooking the Chicken and Green Beans Sheet Pan Meal is as simple as following a few easy steps. Let’s get started on transforming these fresh ingredients into a mouth-watering dish!
- Start by trimming all the chicken pieces well. Leave some skin covering the top, but make sure to remove most of the excess skin and fat deposits on the back. I find that using kitchen shears makes this job a breeze, but if you can get well-trimmed chicken from the store, that’s even easier!
- In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, Spike Seasoning, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful marinade. This combination will give your chicken and green beans a lovely taste.
- Reserve 3 tablespoons of the marinade for later use (we’ll mix this with lemon zest). Then, place the remaining marinade in a Ziploc bag along with the trimmed chicken. Seal it tightly and let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or longer if time allows.
- While the chicken marinates, prepare the green beans by trimming both ends. To make them crispier, place them in a bowl of ice water. You can use a salad spinner to drain them afterward, making the process quick and easy.
- Once the chicken has marinated and the oven is preheated to 425°F (220°C), remove the chicken from the bag and discard the marinade. Place the chicken on a large baking sheet that you’ve sprayed with non-stick spray.
- Let the chicken come to room temperature as you prepare everything else, making sure it cooks evenly.
- Roast the chicken in the oven for 20 minutes. The smell will be tempting, but hold tight!
- While the chicken is roasting, zest your lemon. Add the zest to the reserved marinade for an extra burst of flavor.
- After 20 minutes, take the chicken out of the oven. Gently push it to the edges of the baking sheet to create space for the green beans.
- Next, add the fresh green beans to the baking sheet. Brush them with the reserved marinade that now has lemon zest for an added zing.
- Continue cooking the chicken and green beans together for another 20 minutes. If your chicken pieces are large, check with an instant-read meat thermometer to ensure they reach a safe temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Once everything is cooked to perfection, serve hot.
Things Worth Knowing
- Cooking Temperature: Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking. This helps the chicken skin become crispy.
- Marination Time: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it becomes. Letting it sit overnight is even better!
- Checking Doneness: It’s crucial to check the internal temperature of the chicken to avoid undercooking it. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Using Fresh Ingredients: Fresh green beans not only taste better but also provide a vibrant color and nutrients.
Recipe Variations about Chicken and Green Beans Sheet Pan Meal
If you’re looking to switch things up, try these variations for the Chicken and Green Beans Sheet Pan Meal. Each idea can give you a new twist on this classic dish!
- Storage: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen after cooking. Place it in a freezer-safe container and store for up to three months. Thaw before reheating.
- Different Veggies: Feel free to swap the green beans for other vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers to add variety to your meal.
- Seasoning Options: Experiment with different herbs and spices like rosemary, oregano, or even a bit of chili powder for some heat.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with a side salad or some fluffy rice for a complete meal.
- Cooking Technique: Try grilling the chicken and green beans for a smoky flavor or use a different cooking method like air frying for a crispy texture.
Perfect Pairings for Chicken and Green Beans Sheet Pan Meal
Serving the Chicken and Green Beans Sheet Pan Meal can be a delightful experience with various pairings. Here are some ideas to consider:
- Side Salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens and a lemon vinaigrette complements the dish beautifully.
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve the meal over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious juices.
- Seasonal Vegetables: Consider adding seasonal vegetables like roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts to enhance the meal.
- Occasions: This recipe is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even gatherings during the holidays.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for quick lunches throughout the week.
- Warm Breads: Serve with warm crusty bread for a comforting touch.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Chicken and Green Beans Sheet Pan Meal is a delightful and convenient dish that brings flavor and ease to your dining table. Whether you’re coming home from a busy day or preparing a meal for family, this recipe is sure to please. I encourage you to try it and enjoy the delicious combination of juicy chicken and fresh green beans!
Chicken and Green Beans Sheet Pan Meal
Equipment
- Oven
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Sheet
Ingredients
- 4 pieces Chicken thighs very large bone-in, skin-on
- 1 lb Green beans fresh
Instructions
- Start by trimming all the chicken pieces well. Leave some skin covering the top, but make sure to remove most of the excess skin and fat deposits on the back. I find that using kitchen shears makes this job a breeze, but if you can get well-trimmed chicken from the store, that’s even easier!
- In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, Spike Seasoning, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful marinade. This combination will give your chicken and green beans a lovely taste.
- Reserve 3 tablespoons of the marinade for later use (we'll mix this with lemon zest). Then, place the remaining marinade in a Ziploc bag along with the trimmed chicken. Seal it tightly and let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or longer if time allows.
- While the chicken marinates, prepare the green beans by trimming both ends. To make them crispier, place them in a bowl of ice water. You can use a salad spinner to drain them afterward, making the process quick and easy.
- Once the chicken has marinated and the oven is preheated to 425°F (220°C), remove the chicken from the bag and discard the marinade. Place the chicken on a large baking sheet that you’ve sprayed with non-stick spray.
- Let the chicken come to room temperature as you prepare everything else, making sure it cooks evenly.
- Roast the chicken in the oven for 20 minutes. The smell will be tempting, but hold tight!
- While the chicken is roasting, zest your lemon. Add the zest to the reserved marinade for an extra burst of flavor.
- After 20 minutes, take the chicken out of the oven. Gently push it to the edges of the baking sheet to create space for the green beans.
- Next, add the fresh green beans to the baking sheet. Brush them with the reserved marinade that now has lemon zest for an added zing.
- Continue cooking the chicken and green beans together for another 20 minutes. If your chicken pieces are large, check with an instant-read meat thermometer to ensure they reach a safe temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Once everything is cooked to perfection, serve hot.
