Chicken and Veg Tray Bake Recipe for Easy Weeknight Dinners

Nothing beats the simplicity and wholesome goodness of a chicken and veg tray bake. This one-pan wonder is the perfect weeknight dinner that combines tender, juicy chicken with a colorful medley of roasted vegetables.

Not only is it a breeze to prepare, but it also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that will have everyone at the table eager to dig in. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe offers a comforting, nutritious, and satisfying meal with minimal fuss and cleanup.

With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a splash of your favorite herbs and spices, you can create a balanced dish that tastes like it took hours to prepare. Plus, the versatility of this tray bake means you can tailor it to your preference by swapping veggies or seasoning to keep things exciting.

Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-have in your culinary repertoire!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chicken and veg tray bake stands out for its incredible ease and flavor. It’s a complete meal cooked all in one roasting pan, which means less time spent washing up and more time enjoying your food.

The chicken comes out perfectly juicy, while the vegetables roast to caramelized perfection, absorbing all the savory juices from the chicken and herbs.

It’s also highly adaptable. Whether you want to add a spicy kick, incorporate seasonal vegetables, or adjust it to dietary needs, this recipe is your canvas.

It’s nutritious, packed with protein, vitamins, and fiber, making it a healthy choice for any night of the week.

And for those who love meal prep, it keeps well in the fridge for several days and can be easily reheated without losing its charm. If you’re interested in more wholesome chicken dishes, check out our Pcos Chicken Recipes for additional inspiration.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for best flavor)
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into chunks
• 1 large red bell pepper, cut into strips
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced thickly
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges
• 150g cherry tomatoes, whole
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
• Juice of half a lemon

Equipment

• Large roasting tray or baking sheet (with edges)
• Sharp knife for chopping vegetables
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl to toss the vegetables
• Measuring spoons
• Oven mitts for safe handling
• Serving platter or plates

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). This high heat will help crisp up the chicken skin and roast the vegetables beautifully.
2. Prepare the vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, toss the carrots, bell pepper, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure all pieces are evenly coated.
3. Season the chicken thighs: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and rub with the remaining olive oil. Season generously with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra depth.
4. Arrange the chicken and vegetables on the roasting tray: Lay the chicken thighs skin-side up in one half of the tray and spread the vegetables on the other half. This arrangement allows the chicken juices to mingle with the veggies as everything cooks.
5. Roast in the oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) and the skin is golden and crispy. The vegetables should be tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice over the chicken and veggies immediately after removing them from the oven. This brightens the flavors wonderfully.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

For juicier chicken, consider marinating the thighs in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for 1-2 hours before cooking.

You can swap out the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have handy. Sweet potatoes, broccoli florets, or green beans all work beautifully.

For a Mediterranean twist, add a handful of olives or some crumbled feta just before serving.

If you prefer white meat, boneless chicken breasts can be used but reduce the cooking time to prevent dryness. For those who love a smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or chipotle powder.

Looking for more hearty one-pan meals? Try our delicious Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe for a comforting classic, or if you want to experiment with pickled flavors, check out the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This tray bake is a full meal on its own, but serving it with a few complementary sides can elevate the dining experience. Consider pairing it with a light green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.

For a low-carb option, steamed cauliflower rice or mashed potatoes make great companions. Alternatively, a side of warm couscous or quinoa can add a nice texture contrast and soak up the flavors nicely.

Don’t forget a glass of chilled white wine or a crisp sparkling water with lemon to round out the meal perfectly!

Conclusion

This chicken and veg tray bake recipe is a true kitchen hero, delivering big on flavor and nutrition with minimal effort. Its versatility allows you to customize it endlessly while keeping preparation and cleanup simple.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this dish fits the bill.

What makes it even better is how it invites creativity—swap veggies, try new herbs, or add a side from our other collections like the Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for a seasonal twist. So next time you want a fuss-free, wholesome meal, remember this tray bake and make your dinner both effortless and memorable!

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