Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my ultimate go-to weeknight meal: sheet pan chicken and potatoes! This dish is not only super easy to whip up, but it’s also packed with flavor and comfort. I love how everything cooks together on one pan, saving me from a mountain of dishes. The chicken turns out juicy and tender while the baby potatoes get just the right amount of crispy edges. Trust me, the aroma that wafts through the kitchen while it’s baking is enough to make your mouth water! I first made this recipe during a busy week, and it quickly became a family favorite. You’ll want to keep this one in your back pocket for those hectic evenings when you need something delicious without the fuss!
Ingredients List
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in for extra flavor
- 2 cups baby potatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How to Prepare Sheet Pan Chicken and Potatoes
Alright, let’s get cooking! This sheet pan chicken and potatoes recipe is so straightforward, you’ll be amazed at how quickly dinner comes together. Here’s how to do it step by step:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial for getting that perfect crispy finish on the chicken and potatoes.
- While that’s warming up, grab a large mixing bowl. Toss in the chicken thighs, halved baby potatoes, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, and a generous sprinkle of salt and pepper.
- Now, here’s the fun part—get in there with your hands and mix everything together! You want to make sure each piece of chicken and potato is coated in that delicious seasoning. It should smell amazing already!
- Next, spread the chicken and potatoes out on a sheet pan in a single layer. This helps everything cook evenly. Don’t crowd them; give them some space!
- Slide the pan into the oven and let it bake for about 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender, with those lovely crispy edges.
- When it’s all ready, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Then, sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving. Honestly, you’ll want to dig in right away!
And there you have it! A simple, flavorful dish that comes together with minimal fuss. Enjoy every bite!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying a delicious meal like sheet pan chicken and potatoes, it’s nice to know what you’re putting on your plate! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving based on the ingredients used:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. But hey, it’s all part of enjoying this wonderful dish guilt-free!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This sheet pan chicken and potatoes recipe is a total game-changer for weeknight dinners! Here’s why you’re going to adore it:
- **Easy preparation**: With everything cooked on a single sheet pan, cleanup is a breeze!
- **Family-friendly**: Even the pickiest eaters will love the juicy chicken and crispy potatoes.
- **Delicious flavors**: The garlic and paprika create a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen.
- **Healthy ingredients**: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a wholesome meal that doesn’t skimp on taste.
- **Quick cooking time**: In just about 50 minutes, you can have a hearty meal on the table.
- **Versatile**: Feel free to switch up the veggies or spices to suit your family’s tastes!
Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation!
Tips for Success
Want to make sure your sheet pan chicken and potatoes turn out absolutely perfect? Here are some of my top tips that I swear by:
- Choose the right chicken: Bone-in chicken thighs add so much flavor, but if you prefer boneless, just be aware that the cooking time may be a bit shorter.
- Don’t skip the preheating: Preheating the oven is key! It helps achieve that crispy, golden finish on both the chicken and potatoes.
- Cut potatoes evenly: Make sure your baby potatoes are halved evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate. No one likes mushy spots!
- Check for doneness: Always use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure! Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be safe to eat.
- Let it rest: After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping it nice and moist.
- Season to your liking: Feel free to adjust the garlic and paprika to your taste. A little extra spice can really elevate this dish!
- Experiment with veggies: Don’t hesitate to toss in some carrots, bell peppers, or even Brussels sprouts for a colorful, nutritious twist!
With these simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this delicious sheet pan meal. Happy cooking!
Variations
One of the best things about this sheet pan chicken and potatoes recipe is how versatile it is! You can easily mix things up to keep your meals exciting. Here are some fun ideas to personalize your dish:
- Veggie Medley: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables! Carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, or even green beans can be tossed in for extra color and nutrition. Just remember to cut them into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
- Herb Infusion: Swap out the garlic powder and paprika for fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. They’ll add a beautiful fragrance and elevate the flavor profile!
- Citrus Twist: Squeeze some lemon or orange juice over the chicken and potatoes before baking for a bright, zesty kick. The acidity pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix. It’ll give your dish an exciting spicy edge!
- Sweet Potatoes: Substitute half of the baby potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet and nutritious twist. They’ll add a lovely color and a different texture!
- Cheesy Goodness: In the last few minutes of baking, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top. Let it melt and get bubbly for an extra indulgent touch.
These variations let you get creative and make this dish your own. Don’t be afraid to experiment—cooking is all about having fun in the kitchen!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? Don’t worry, this sheet pan chicken and potatoes recipe keeps well! Here’s how to store and reheat your delicious meal to keep all that flavor intact:
- Storing: Allow the chicken and potatoes to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture buildup, which can make everything soggy. You can store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the leftovers! Just make sure they’re in a freezer-safe container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. They’ll stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Now, onto reheating! To bring that deliciousness back:
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the chicken and potatoes on a baking sheet and cover it with aluminum foil to keep moisture in. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, pop your portions in the microwave! Just place them in a microwave-safe dish, cover them (a microwave-safe lid works great), and heat in 1-minute increments until warm. Be careful not to overdo it, as this can dry them out.
With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your sheet pan chicken and potatoes again, just as tasty as when it was freshly made! Happy eating!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying your delicious sheet pan chicken and potatoes, pairing it with the right sides can really elevate the meal! Here are some of my favorite ideas to complement this flavorful dish:
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a nice crunch and balances the heartiness of the chicken and potatoes.
- Garlic Bread: Who doesn’t love garlic bread? Serve some warm, buttery garlic bread on the side for a comforting addition that’s perfect for mopping up any juices!
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus provide a vibrant pop of color and extra nutrients, making the meal even healthier.
- Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw can add a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory flavors of the chicken and potatoes.
- Rice or Quinoa: If you want to bulk up your meal, serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. They soak up the delicious flavors beautifully!
- Applesauce: For a fun twist, a side of applesauce adds a touch of sweetness that pairs surprisingly well with the savory dish.
Feel free to mix and match these sides based on your mood or what you have on hand. Each option brings something special to the table, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal experience!
For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta or Sheet Pan Chicken with Vegetables!
Print
Sheet Pan Chicken and Potatoes: 5 Flavorful Comfort Tips
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and delicious sheet pan meal featuring chicken and potatoes.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 cups baby potatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine chicken thighs, baby potatoes, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Spread the chicken and potatoes on a sheet pan in a single layer.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and potatoes are tender.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use bone-in chicken for more flavor.
- Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: sheet pan chicken and potatoes
