Parmesan Chicken and Broccoli Sheet Pan Dinner

Parmesan Crusted Chicken and Broccoli: The Ultimate Sheet Pan Dinner Recipe

Parmesan Crusted Chicken and Broccoli Sheet Pan

Looking for a quick, easy, and healthy dinner option that requires minimal cleanup? This Parmesan Crusted Chicken and Broccoli Sheet Pan recipe is your answer! Packed with flavor and nutrients, this one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights or anyone who loves a delicious, hassle-free meal. This dish combines tender chicken tenderloins with crisp-tender broccoli florets, all coated in a savory Parmesan crust that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Discover the secrets to creating this mouthwatering meal and enjoy a satisfying dinner with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Chicken and Broccoli Sheet Pan

This recipe is more than just a quick dinner fix; it’s a wholesome and flavorful meal that caters to a variety of dietary needs and preferences. Here’s why it’s a winner:

  • Easy Cleanup: The beauty of a sheet pan dinner lies in its simplicity. Everything cooks on one pan, which means fewer dishes to wash!
  • Healthy and Balanced: This recipe provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, making it a complete and satisfying meal. The broccoli adds essential vitamins and fiber, while the chicken provides lean protein.
  • Customizable: Feel free to adjust the seasonings and ingredients to suit your taste. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or substitute the broccoli with other vegetables like Brussels sprouts or bell peppers.
  • Quick and Convenient: From prep to table, this meal is ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
  • Kid-Friendly: The crispy Parmesan crust and familiar flavors of chicken and broccoli make this a meal that kids will actually enjoy!

Ingredients for Parmesan Chicken and Broccoli

Here’s what you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece:

Ingredients

  • 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound chicken tenderloins
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon dried parsley
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Before diving into the instructions, let’s break down each ingredient and its role in the recipe:

  • Broccoli: Provides essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Choose fresh, vibrant green broccoli florets for the best flavor and texture.
  • Olive Oil: Adds healthy fats and helps the broccoli roast to perfection.
  • Chicken Tenderloins: Offer lean protein and cook quickly. You can also use chicken breasts, but you may need to adjust the cooking time.
  • Egg and Water: Create a binding agent for the Parmesan crust, ensuring it adheres to the chicken.
  • Panko Breadcrumbs: Provide a light and crispy texture to the crust. They are lighter and crisper than regular breadcrumbs.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, savory flavor and contributes to the crispy crust. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best taste.
  • Dried Herbs and Spices (Oregano, Basil, Parsley, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder): Infuse the chicken and broccoli with a burst of flavor. Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices to customize the taste.
  • Salt and Pepper: Enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfectly Crispy Chicken and Broccoli

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and satisfying Parmesan Crusted Chicken and Broccoli Sheet Pan dinner:

Instructions

  • Step 1: Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving crispy chicken and tender-crisp broccoli.
  • Step 2: Prepare the Sheet Pan: Spray a large rimmed sheet pan with non-stick cooking spray or line it with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
  • Step 3: Prepare the Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the prepared sheet pan. Drizzle with olive oil and season with a dash of salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Spread the broccoli in a single layer.
  • Step 4: Prepare the Egg Wash: In a shallow bowl or plate, whisk together the egg and 1 tablespoon of water. This mixture will help the Parmesan crust adhere to the chicken.
  • Step 5: Prepare the Parmesan Crust: In a large zip-top bag, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, dried parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Seal the bag and shake well to thoroughly combine all the ingredients.
  • Step 6: Coat the Chicken: One at a time, dip the chicken tenderloins into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, place the chicken into the zip-top bag with the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture. Seal the bag and shake well to coat the chicken evenly with the mixture.
  • Step 7: Arrange on the Sheet Pan: Place the coated chicken tenderloins on the sheet pan alongside the broccoli florets. Make sure the chicken and broccoli are in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
  • Step 8: Bake: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and carefully flip the chicken tenderloins and toss the broccoli florets. Return the sheet pan to the oven and bake for another 8-11 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the broccoli is tender-crisp. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
  • Step 9: Serve and Enjoy: Remove the sheet pan from the oven and let the chicken and broccoli rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious and easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken and Broccoli Sheet Pan dinner!

Tips and Variations for the Best Sheet Pan Dinner

Want to elevate your Parmesan Crusted Chicken and Broccoli Sheet Pan dinner to the next level? Here are some helpful tips and creative variations:

  • Don’t overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding the sheet pan will steam the chicken and broccoli instead of roasting them, resulting in a less crispy texture. Use a large sheet pan or divide the ingredients between two pans if necessary.
  • Use parchment paper: For even easier cleanup, line the sheet pan with parchment paper instead of aluminum foil.
  • Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the sheet pan, such as Brussels sprouts, bell peppers, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  • Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
  • Use different cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese in the crust, such as Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella.
  • Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Add a lemon squeeze: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the chicken and broccoli after baking adds a bright and zesty flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Parmesan Crusted Chicken and Broccoli Sheet Pan dinner is delicious on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to complete the meal:

  • Serve with a side salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken and broccoli.
  • Serve with quinoa or rice: Add a serving of quinoa or brown rice for a more substantial meal.
  • Serve with a dipping sauce: Offer a side of ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a garlic aioli for dipping.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 327kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Protein: 33g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0.02g
  • Cholesterol: 122mg
  • Sodium: 743mg
  • Potassium: 699mg
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Vitamin A: 614IU
  • Vitamin C: 60mg
  • Calcium: 227mg
  • Iron: 2mg

Note: Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Enjoy Your Delicious and Easy Dinner!

This Parmesan Crusted Chicken and Broccoli Sheet Pan recipe is a winner for its simplicity, health benefits, and delicious flavor. It’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights or anytime you want a satisfying and easy dinner. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple instructions, and enjoy a mouthwatering meal with minimal cleanup! Don’t forget to experiment with variations and serving suggestions to create your own unique version of this classic sheet pan dinner.

We hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we do! Share your creations with us and let us know how it turned out!