Life’s busy—your meals shouldn’t be complicated! If you’re juggling career, family, and personal goals, quick and healthy meals are your best friend. That’s where this One-Pan Lemon Herb Ground Chicken & Veggies recipe swoops in to save the day. With just 7 simple ingredients and minimal clean-up, this dish is perfect for health-conscious professionals who want a wholesome, flavorful dinner in less than 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-pan convenience means fewer dishes to wash and more time to unwind after your meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want an easy cleanup.
Budget-friendly ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry or fridge, saving you money and reducing food waste.
Balanced, nutritious, and packed with vibrant flavors—these meals prove you don’t have to sacrifice health or taste for simplicity!

By the end of this post, you’ll have all the tools you need to whip up this crowd-pleaser, along with ideas for customization and side dishes. Let’s make cooking easy again!

Ingredient Spotlight

Every ingredient in this recipe serves double duty: They pack in the nutrition while bringing bold flavors to the table. Here’s what makes this one-pan wonder shine:

1. Ground Chicken

This recipe’s protein-packed star 🌟! Ground chicken is lean yet filling, making it an excellent choice for maintaining energy throughout your busy day. It’s also incredibly versatile, absorbing the zesty lemon and herb flavors beautifully.

2. Lemon Juice 🍋

Fresh lemon juice adds brightness and a touch of acidity that lightens up the rich flavors of the dish. Bonus? Lemons are loaded with vitamin C, which supports immune health.

3. Fresh Herbs 🌿

Think parsley, cilantro, or thyme—your choice! These herbs don’t just flavor the dish; they boost antioxidants while making each bite feel fresh and vibrant.

4. Zucchini

Packed with nutrients like vitamin A and fiber, zucchini blends seamlessly in this dish. Its mild flavor allows the lemon and herbs to shine while adding moisture to every bite.

5. Bell Peppers 🌶️

Choose your favorite colors! Bell peppers add a subtle sweetness and crunch while delivering vitamins like C and A. They also up the fiber quotient, keeping you full.

6. Garlic 🧄

A recipe staple! Garlic brings an aromatic depth and slight spiciness that ties the dish together. It’s also known for its anti-inflammatory and heart-healthy properties.

7. Olive Oil

The ultimate cooking oil, olive oil provides healthy fats and a smooth, slightly fruity flavor to coat every ingredient perfectly.

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 4

Follow these simple steps for a meal that’s ready in no time:

Step 1: Prep and Heat

Start by washing your zucchini and bell peppers thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or residue. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
Chop the zucchini and bell peppers into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are roughly the same size for even cooking.
Mince the garlic finely and set aside in a small bowl. This will release its aroma and make it easy to incorporate later.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet or pan over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm up for about 1-2 minutes until it shimmers, which indicates it’s ready for cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the ground chicken to the heated pan. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break the chicken into smaller, bite-sized pieces as it cooks.
Sprinkle a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper over the chicken to enhance its flavor. If you prefer, you can also add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for extra seasoning.
Stir occasionally, ensuring the chicken cooks evenly. Cook for about 6-8 minutes or until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and begins to turn golden brown.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

Push the cooked chicken to one side of the pan, creating space for the vegetables. This saves you time and minimizes the number of dishes to clean later.
Add the chopped zucchini, bell peppers, and minced garlic to the empty side of the pan. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan so the veggies cook evenly.
Drizzle an additional tablespoon of olive oil over the vegetables if they seem dry. Stir occasionally and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the veggies to soften while maintaining a slight crunch for texture. The garlic will release its aroma, adding depth to the dish.

Step 4: Add Lemon & Herbs

Once the vegetables are tender, combine them with the chicken in the skillet, stirring gently to mix everything together.
Cut a fresh lemon in half and squeeze its juice over the chicken and veggie mixture. Make sure to remove any seeds beforehand. The lemon adds a bright, zesty flavor that ties the dish together.
Toss in your choice of fresh herbs such as chopped parsley, cilantro, or basil. These herbs not only add flavor but also a pop of color to the dish. Stir everything well and cook for another 2 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Step 5: Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and carefully transfer the chicken and veggie mixture to plates or bowls. Serve the dish while it’s still hot for the best flavor and texture.
Pair it with your favorite sides like quinoa, rice, or a slice of crusty bread to round out the meal. You can also top it with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Enjoy your delicious, freshly prepared dish!

Customization Tips

Cooking is all about making it your own, and this dish offers tons of flexibility! Here’s how you can tweak it to suit your preferences:

Protein Swaps: Not a fan of ground chicken? Try ground turkey, beef, or even tofu for a plant-based option.
Veggie Variations: Add mushrooms, broccoli, or kale for extra nutrition and variety.
Spice it Up: Stir in red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for those who love a kick of heat.
Carb Pairing: Serve with brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice if you need a more filling option.

Health Benefits of This Meal

This one-pan recipe isn’t just delicious—it’s nutritionally packed to help you feel your best! Here’s why:

Balanced Macros: It offers a balance of lean protein, healthy fats, and fiber-filled carbs for lasting energy.
Low-Calorie: With wholesome ingredients and minimal oil, this meal is naturally low in calories, perfect for those watching their intake.
Rich in Nutrients: The veggies provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support overall wellness.

Eating well doesn’t have to mean extra effort, and this recipe proves just that.

Serving Suggestions

Make this meal feel like a feast with these complementary sides and presentation tips:

Serve over fluffy whole-grain rice or quinoa for a hearty and satisfying dinner that will keep you full and energized. The nutty flavors of quinoa or the wholesome texture of whole-grain rice pair perfectly with this dish.
Pair with a crisp green side salad, loaded with fresh vegetables like cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and shredded carrots, and drizzle it with a light vinaigrette for added freshness and a tangy contrast.
Garnish with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese or a drizzle of chili oil for an extra burst of flavor and a touch of indulgence.

For an elevated touch, plate it neatly in a shallow bowl and garnish with lemon wedges or freshly chopped herbs.

Bring Flavor, Simplicity, and Health to Your Table

Cooking doesn’t have to be stressful or time-consuming. With just 7 simple ingredients and one pan, this Lemon Herb Ground Chicken & Veggies recipe provides a perfect weeknight solution for busy professionals. It’s fast, healthy, customizable, and incredibly satisfying.

One-Pan Lemon Herb Ground Chicken And Veggies (7 Ingredients)