Introduction
There’s something truly magical about a sheet pan dinner, especially when it comes to the delightful combination of juicy chicken thighs and tender baby potatoes. This Sheet Pan Chicken and Potatoes recipe not only brings comfort to the table but also fills your home with an irresistible aroma as it bakes. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family gathering, this dish is easy to prepare and requires minimal cleanup, making it a go-to favorite in any kitchen. Let’s dive into creating a meal that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat!
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), allowing it to get nice and hot for the perfect roast.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. The blend of spices will create a fragrant marinade that’s packed with flavor.
- Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, ensuring each piece is generously coated in the spice mixture. The skin-on thighs will soak up all those delicious flavors!
- In another bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with any remaining marinade, making sure they’re evenly coated to absorb every bit of that savory goodness.
- Arrange the chicken thighs on one side of a large sheet pan, skin side up, and place the potatoes on the other side. This allows both elements to roast beautifully and soak up each other’s flavors during cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The potatoes should be fork-tender and perfectly crispy on the outside.
- Once done, remove the sheet pan from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices in the chicken to redistribute for maximum tenderness. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a pop of color and freshness!
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers alongside the potatoes for a colorful and nutritious twist.
- If you like a bit of spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for an extra kick.
- Make sure to space the chicken and potatoes out on the sheet pan so they roast rather than steam, ensuring crispiness.
Cooking Techniques
Sheet pan cooking is all about maximizing flavor and minimizing cleanup! Here are some essential techniques to keep in mind:
- Marinating: Allowing the chicken to sit in the marinade for even a short time will enhance the flavors. You can also marinate it for up to an hour in the fridge for deeper flavor.
- High Heat Roasting: Cooking at a high temperature helps achieve that beautiful golden brown exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
- Resting: Resting the chicken after cooking is crucial for keeping it moist and tender.
FAQ
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used, but adjust cooking time to about 25-30 minutes, as they cook faster.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
You can substitute with regular paprika, but you’ll miss out on that lovely smoky flavor.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and potatoes a few hours in advance, refrigerate, and then roast them just before serving.
Conclusion
This Sheet Pan Chicken and Potatoes recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation, offering bold flavors and comforting textures with every bite. It’s perfect for those evenings when time is short, yet you want to enjoy a homemade meal that impresses. With its ease of preparation and clean-up, you’ll find yourself making this dish again and again, perhaps even experimenting with different herbs and spices to make it your own. So gather the ingredients and get ready to savor a delightful dinner that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table!