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If you’re looking for a weeknight winner that combines ease, flavor, and a gorgeous presentation, this Parmesan Crusted Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine juicy chicken breasts coated in a crispy, cheesy Parmesan crust, roasting alongside vibrant, tender mixed vegetables all on one sheet pan. It’s a foolproof dish that brings together a harmony of textures and colors, making dinner both delightful and fuss-free. Whether you’re feeding a family or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe will soon be one of your cherished go-to dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple, relying on a handful of powerhouse ingredients that each play a crucial role. From the sharp, savory kick of freshly grated Parmesan to the colorful crunch of mixed vegetables, every component is essential in creating a balanced and irresistible meal.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (3-4, about 1.5 lbs): The lean protein base that becomes tender and juicy as it bakes.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (1 cup): Creates the signature crispy, golden crust packed with umami.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): Adds healthy fat and helps the Parmesan crust adhere beautifully while roasting.
- Garlic powder (2 tsp): Infuses a warm, aromatic depth to both the chicken and the crust.
- Salt (1 tsp) and black pepper (1/2 tsp): Essential seasonings that enhance every flavor in the dish.
- Mixed vegetables (4 cups, e.g., broccoli, bell peppers, carrots): Provides a medley of colors and textures that roast perfectly alongside the chicken.
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to a sizzling 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). This high heat is key to crisping up the Parmesan crust while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
Step 2: Dry and Season the Chicken
Pat your chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure the seasonings stick well. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken, then generously season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to build layers of flavor right from the start.
Step 3: Coat with Parmesan
In a small bowl, mix the grated Parmesan cheese with a bit of extra garlic powder if you want an even bolder punch. Press this cheesy mixture firmly onto each chicken breast, ensuring they’re evenly coated to form that beloved crunchy crust.
Step 4: Prepare the Vegetables
Chop your mixed vegetables into bite-sized pieces for even roasting. Spread them out around the chicken on the sheet pan and drizzle with olive oil. This allows them to caramelize beautifully and soak up some of the chicken’s savory juices during baking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the sheet pan in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), and the Parmesan crust is gorgeously golden brown. Your veggies should be tender with slightly crisp edges, perfectly complementing the chicken.
How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner Recipe
Garnishes
Add a fresh sprinkle of chopped parsley or a few twists of freshly cracked black pepper to brighten the dish at the end. A light drizzle of lemon juice can also bring a lovely hint of acidity that cuts through the richness of the Parmesan crust.
Side Dishes
This sheet pan dinner is so hearty and balanced on its own, but if you want to round it out, consider serving with a simple leafy green salad or a side of buttery mashed potatoes. Garlic bread or crusty, warm rolls can also be a welcome addition for mopping up any delicious juices.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve each chicken breast on a large plate surrounded by a colorful bed of the roasted vegetables. For a fun twist, slice the chicken crosswise into medallions and layer them atop lightly dressed greens, turning the dish into an elegant salad. Either way, the Parmesan crust provides an impressive centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool any leftover chicken and vegetables completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they’ll stay fresh for about three to four days—perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of this Parmesan Crusted Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner Recipe for longer storage. Wrap well in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. It will keep nicely for up to two months. Just thaw before reheating to preserve the flavors and texture.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to keep the chicken crust crisp. Microwave reheating is quicker but may soften the crust and veggies slightly—though it’s still a convenient option for busy days.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will be even juicier, and the Parmesan crust works wonderfully on them. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few minutes longer to reach the right temperature.
What vegetables are best for this sheet pan dinner?
Vegetables that roast evenly and hold their shape are ideal, such as broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Feel free to mix and match based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Parmesan Crusted Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner Recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses no breading or flour, just grated cheese and seasonings.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You might substitute the Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese alternative, but the classic crunchy crust is hard to replicate exactly. Using nutritional yeast could add a cheesy flavor, but it won’t crisp in the same way. Experimenting can be fun!
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes onto the chicken before baking or toss the vegetables with a bit of smoked paprika or cayenne powder. It will add a nice kick without overpowering the cheesy goodness.
Final Thoughts
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner Recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients and straightforward steps can deliver something truly special. It’s approachable, packed with flavor, and so satisfying that you’ll want to make it again and again. Give it a try, and soon it will be a beloved classic in your home too!
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Parmesan Crusted Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is a quick and delicious meal featuring tender, juicy chicken breasts coated in a flavorful Parmesan crust, roasted alongside a medley of fresh vegetables. Perfect for a hassle-free weeknight dinner, this recipe combines protein and veggies on one pan for an easy cleanup and balanced meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Vegetables
- 4 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., broccoli, bell peppers, carrots)
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for roasting.
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry thoroughly with paper towels to help the seasoning stick and achieve a crispy crust.
- Season the chicken: Drizzle olive oil over both sides of the chicken breasts, then evenly season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Coat with Parmesan: In a bowl, mix the Parmesan cheese with a little extra garlic powder if desired. Press this mixture onto each chicken breast to form a flavorful crust.
- Prepare the vegetables: Chop the mixed vegetables into bite-sized pieces and arrange them around the chicken on a sheet pan. Drizzle the vegetables lightly with olive oil to aid roasting.
- Bake the dinner: Place the sheet pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the Parmesan crust is golden brown. The vegetables should be tender and slightly caramelized.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature for perfect doneness.
- Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies such as zucchini, cauliflower, or cherry tomatoes.
- For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for the last 2 minutes of baking but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
