This Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs with Potatoes recipe is your ticket to a delicious and effortless meal. This sheet pan dinner recipe brings tender chicken and perfectly roasted potatoes together with bright, fresh flavors. It’s a complete meal on one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on for best flavor; boneless, skinless also works.
- Potatoes: Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal; sweet potatoes can be used for a different flavor.
- Lemon: Fresh is essential for brightness.
- Fresh Herbs: Rosemary and thyme offer classic flavors; dried herbs can be substituted (use less).
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1.5 lbs small Yukon Gold or red potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large lemon, half sliced, half juiced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, roughly chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 550
- Tools Needed: Large baking sheet, mixing bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This simple step makes your sheet pan dinner recipe even more convenient.
2. Season the Potatoes
In a large bowl, toss the cut potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, half of the chopped rosemary, half of the thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure the potatoes are evenly coated. Spread them in a single layer on one side of the prepared sheet pan.
3. Season the Chicken Thighs
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. In the same bowl (no need to wash it!), toss the chicken with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the remaining rosemary and thyme, a good squeeze of fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken thighs skin-side up on the other side of the sheet pan, leaving some space between pieces.
4. Add Lemon Slices
Arrange the lemon slices over and around the chicken and potatoes. These will infuse the dish with a wonderful citrus aroma as it bakes. This adds a beautiful touch to your sheet pan dinner.
5. Roast Until Golden
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the potatoes are tender and golden. For extra crispiness, you can broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully.
6. Serve Immediately
Carefully remove the sheet pan from the oven. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve this flavorful sheet pan dinner recipe while warm.
Variation Ideas:
- Add Vegetables: Toss in broccoli florets, bell peppers, or asparagus during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a little heat.
- Herbal Swap: Experiment with other fresh herbs like oregano or marjoram for a different flavor profile.
- Sweet Potato Version: Use cubed sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a touch of sweetness.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs and Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This helps maintain the juiciness of the chicken and the tenderness of the potatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs?
Yes, you can. Adjust cooking time, as they may cook faster than bone-in, skin-on thighs.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
No, leaving the skin on adds nutrients and texture. Just be sure to wash them thoroughly.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
You can use dried herbs. As a general rule, use about one-third the amount of dried herbs as fresh herbs.
Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?
You can chop the potatoes and mix the seasonings ahead of time. Keep the chicken separate and combine everything just before baking.
Why is my chicken not crispy?
Ensure your oven is at the correct temperature and avoid overcrowding the sheet pan. Broiling for a few minutes at the end can also help.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely! This sheet pan dinner recipe is excellent for meal prep, providing delicious lunches or dinners throughout the week.