Only one pan because nobody is washing dishes tonight
By the time Boxing Day shopping is done, your bags are down, your shoes are off, and your patience is gone.
This is not the time for complicated cooking or multiple pots. This is the time for a calm, nourishing, one-pan dinner that helps your body recover from crowds, standing, walking, and festive excess — without trashing the kitchen.
This Post-Boxing Day Recovery Dinner is light but satisfying, packed with protein, and gentle enough to sleep well after.
One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken with Greens (Serves 1)
Why this works after a big day
- Lean protein to support muscle recovery
- Lemon and garlic for freshness and digestion
- One pan because nobody is washing dishes tonight
Ingredients
- 1 chicken breast (or thigh if preferred)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of ½ lemon
- 1 cup broccolini or green beans
- 1 small zucchini, sliced
- Salt and cracked pepper
- Optional: handful of cherry tomatoes
How to Make It
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and rest.
- In the same pan, add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add greens, zucchini and tomatoes (if using). Cook for 3–4 minutes until just tender.
- Return chicken to the pan, add lemon zest and juice, and toss to combine.
- Taste, season, and serve straight from the pan if desired.
Nutritional Highlights
- Protein: Supports recovery and satiety
- Vitamin C: Helps immune function post-festivities
- Light but balanced: No food coma required
Plan4One Tips
- Want carbs? Add microwave brown rice or a slice of sourdough.
- Cooking for tomorrow too? Double the veg — leftovers reheat beautifully.
- No chicken? Swap with salmon or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days
- Reheat gently in a pan or microwave with a splash of water or lemon juice
Final Thought
Boxing Day sales may test your patience — dinner shouldn’t.
👉 If this recipe saved your evening, share it, leave a comment, or explore more easy solo dinners on Plan4One.com.
