When the air turns crisp and the trees glow with amber leaves, there’s nothing better than settling into the season with a cozy home-cooked meal. This Fall Sheet Pan Chicken Dinner with Brussels Sprouts & Squash captures everything we love about autumn—warm aromas, vibrant produce, and easy, wholesome comfort. As one of the best healthy dinner recipes around, it’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and full of nourishing flavor. Whether you’re planning weeknight gf and df meals or craving something hearty yet light, this Brussels sprouts sheet pan dinner delivers the taste of fall in every bite—simple, satisfying, and beautifully seasonal.

Fall Sheet Pan Chicken Dinner with Brussels Sprouts and Squash

A Family Favorite Fall Sheet Pan Chicken Dinner

Every September, when sweaters make their annual debut and the kitchen windows fog with cool evening air, our family’s first fall sheet pan chicken dinner becomes a ritual. The scent of golden roasted chicken mingling with caramelized squash and crackling Brussels sprouts fills the house with pure autumn comfort. It’s one of those all in one dinner recipes that practically cooks itself—just toss everything on a pan, slide it in the oven, and let the magic happen.

The aroma alone is enough to make you linger in the kitchen, listening for the gentle sizzle and waiting for dinner to emerge—crispy edges, tender chicken, and perfectly browned veggies. This has become one of our go-to healthy dinner recipes, ideal for lazy Sundays when the family gathers around, sharing stories while the oven does the work. Every time that Brussels sprouts sheet pan hits the table, it feels like fall has officially arrived.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. One pan, minimal prep, and a short ingredient list equal less time cooking and cleaning—and more time enjoying the season. This fall sheet pan chicken dinner proves that cozy, delicious meals don’t have to be complicated to deliver big flavor. Roasting brings out sweetness in the squash and depth in the chicken, creating layers of taste with almost no effort.

Why This Dish Defines Easy Fall Cooking

For anyone looking for quick gf and df meals, this recipe fits perfectly. It skips gluten and dairy without sacrificing satisfaction, giving you a meal that’s nourishing and balanced. As far as light dinner meals healthy for any night go, it’s hard to beat the ease and reward of a single-sheet dinner that looks (and tastes) like you cooked all day. It’s the essence of easy fall cooking—warm, flavorful, and beautifully fuss-free.

Ingredients & Preparation Made Simple

Essential Ingredients for a Perfect Fall Sheet Pan Chicken Dinner

The beauty of a fall sheet pan chicken dinner lies in how effortlessly simple it is—just wholesome ingredients tossed together for a naturally flavorful, oven-roasted harmony. This dish is proof that great healthy dinner recipes don’t need long ingredient lists or complicated steps. Here’s what you’ll need to make this cozy favorite at home.

Ingredient	Amount	Notes / Substitutions
Chicken thighs or breasts	4 pieces	Choose bone-in for more flavor; use breasts for lighter fare.
Brussels sprouts	2 cups, halved	Trim ends and remove any loose leaves.
Butternut squash	2 cups, cubed	Substitute with acorn squash or sweet potatoes if desired.
Olive oil	3 tbsp	Avocado oil also works well for high-heat roasting.
Garlic	3 cloves, minced	Adds depth—use garlic powder if short on time.
Fresh thyme or rosemary	1–2 tsp	Dried herbs can be swapped in at half the amount.
Maple syrup (optional)	1 tbsp	For a sweet fall accent—omit for a sugar-free version.
Salt	1 tsp (or to taste)	Sea salt enhances roasted flavors beautifully.
Black pepper	½ tsp (or to taste)	Freshly cracked pepper elevates the aroma.
Balsamic glaze (optional)	Drizzle for serving	Adds tangy contrast to sweet roasted squash.

Each item in this Brussels sprouts sheet pan recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it an excellent choice for gf and df meals without the need for special substitutions. Everything roasts together in one pan, making this one of those all in one dinner recipes that delivers both convenience and restaurant-level satisfaction.

Step-by-Step Method to Roast the Perfect Sheet Pan Dinner

Preheat the Oven & Prep the Pan: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking. A well-lined Brussels sprouts sheet pan also helps veggies brown evenly without drying out.
Prepare the Vegetables: Trim and halve Brussels sprouts, then peel and cube the butternut squash into even-sized pieces. Place them in a mixing bowl, drizzle with half the olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Toss until coated, then spread evenly on your sheet pan.
Season the Chicken: In the same bowl, add your chicken pieces. Drizzle with the remaining oil, garlic, herbs, and optional maple syrup. Massage to coat thoroughly. Lay the chicken directly on the pan between the vegetables, making sure everything is in a single layer for even roasting.
Roast to Perfection: Place the pan in the oven and roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping vegetables halfway through. For crispier Brussels sprouts edges and golden squash, switch to broil for the last 3–5 minutes—just keep an eye on it. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Finishing Touches: Once done, remove the pan and let everything rest for a few minutes. If desired, drizzle with balsamic glaze or sprinkle with fresh herbs for an elegant finish.

To get extra-crispy sprouts, place them cut-side down and avoid overcrowding.
Use uniform squash cubes for even cooking.
Light browning equals flavor—don’t rush it.
Roast extra veggies to use for meal prep in wraps or salads.

Recommended Tools: Large sheet pan, sharp chef’s knife, mixing bowl, spatula or tongs, and parchment paper for fast cleanup.

This preparation embodies what light dinner meals healthy for any night should be—balanced, nutrient-rich, and absolutely effortless.

Flavor, Nutrition & Serving Ideas

Balancing Flavors for a Fall-Inspired Meal

One of the best things about this fall sheet pan chicken dinner is how effortlessly the flavors come together. Sweet roasted squash caramelizes into buttery softness, Brussels sprouts crisp up with a nutty bite, and juicy golden-brown chicken ties everything together. The combination creates a cozy, flavorful profile that tastes like autumn on a plate.

To elevate your Brussels sprouts sheet pan further, balance the squash’s sweetness with a bit of acidity or spice. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or squeeze of lemon can brighten the dish, while herbs like rosemary and thyme add that classic fall aroma that fills the kitchen. Add smoked paprika or Dijon mustard if you crave bolder notes.

When it’s time to serve, think beyond the pan. This all in one dinner recipe pairs beautifully with quinoa salad dotted with cranberries or some roasted baby potatoes. For wine, try a medium-bodied Chardonnay or dry Riesling to enhance the dish’s sweet and savory tones.

Nutritional Benefits and Healthy Dinner Advantages

This meal earns its place among the top healthy dinner recipes thanks to its powerful nutrient mix. Chicken provides lean protein, Brussels sprouts supply fiber and antioxidants, and squash contributes vitamins A and C with natural sweetness. Olive oil offers heart-healthy fats, while herbs add subtle immune-boosting benefits.

This fall sheet pan chicken dinner is perfect for gf and df meals—naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and incredibly satisfying.

Nutrient	Approximate Amount per Serving	Benefits
Calories	420–450 kcal	Balanced energy without heaviness
Protein	35–38 g	Builds and repairs muscle tissue
Carbohydrates	20–25 g	Steady energy from natural vegetables
Fat	18–20 g	Healthy fats support heart health
Fiber	6–8 g	Improves digestion and fullness
Vitamins A, C, & K	High amounts	Boosts immunity and eye health

These values vary slightly by cuts of chicken or added glaze, but the meal remains wholesome and balanced—ideal for anyone seeking light dinner meals full of taste and nutrition.

FAQs & Conclusion

Common Questions About Fall Sheet Pan Chicken Dinner with Brussels Sprouts & Squash

1. Can I prepare this sheet pan dinner ahead of time?
Yes. Chop your vegetables and season the chicken in advance. Store everything separately, then assemble and roast when ready. It’s an excellent choice for busy schedule meal prep.

2. What’s the best type of chicken to use?
Both thighs and breasts work well. Thighs stay juicy and rich; breasts are lighter for healthy dinner recipes. Adjust cook time for lean cuts.

3. How do I keep the Brussels sprouts from getting soggy?
Give them space. Spread in a single layer, cut-side down, and roast hot (400°F). Broil briefly for browned edges and a perfect texture on your Brussels sprouts sheet pan.

4. What other vegetables go well with this dish?
Sweet potatoes, carrots, or cauliflower are great additions. Mixing seasonal produce makes this one of the most adaptable all in one dinner recipes.

5. Can I make this without an oven?
You can sauté or use an air fryer. It won’t have the same caramelization, but delivers similar cozy flavor—a smart alternative for quick light dinner meals.

Cozy Evenings Start with Easy Meals

At the end of a cool autumn day, a tray of golden chicken and caramelized vegetables fresh from the oven defines comfort. This Fall Sheet Pan Chicken Dinner with Brussels Sprouts & Squash embodies the simplicity of home cooking: delicious, effortless, and nourishing.

Wholesome gf and df meals like this fit every evening—family dinner, weeknight comfort, or solo meal. As one of the easiest healthy dinner recipes out there, it warms your kitchen and brings flavor to the season.

As temperatures drop, make this fall sheet pan chicken dinner your autumn staple. Experiment with different herbs, drizzle maple or balsamic for a twist, and savor that cozy feeling. When the oven’s warm and the food’s this good, every evening feels like a celebration of simple, seasonal comfort.