One Pan Chicken and Potatoes

Make this easy-to-prep one pan chicken and potatoes that everyone will love. It’s a quick meal of juicy chicken and crispy potatoes—perfect for busy midweek dinners. This dish is designed to be simple yet flavorful, making it suitable for family meals, gatherings, or a cozy dinner at home. With just one pan required, cleanup is a breeze too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 5 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious meal ready in no time.
• One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy easy cleanup with just one pan to wash after a hearty meal.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of lemon, garlic, and spices brings an irresistible taste to the chicken and potatoes.
• Versatile Meal: Customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables along with the chicken and potatoes.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please everyone at the table, making it great for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking much easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to prepare this dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sheet pan
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Sheet pan: A large surface area allows for even cooking of both chicken and potatoes while keeping everything in one place.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining your ingredients into a flavorful sauce before applying it to the chicken and potatoes.

Ingredients

To make your one pan chicken and potatoes, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

• 2 lb chicken (thighs and drumsticks)

For the Potatoes

• 22 oz potatoes

For the Sauce

• 4 cloves garlic (large)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup lemon juice
• 1 Tbsp lemon zest
• 1 1/2 Tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 Tbsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika

Garnish

• parsley (to garnish)

How to Make One Pan Chicken and Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready for cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small mixing bowl:
1. Combine olive oil, minced garlic, tomato paste, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, dried oregano, black pepper, and paprika.
2. Mix well until you form a smooth sauce.

Step 3: Prepare Chicken and Potatoes

1. If necessary, chop the potatoes into smaller, even-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
2. Pat the chicken and potatoes dry with kitchen paper to remove excess moisture.

Step 4: Arrange in Pan

1. Place the chicken and potatoes on a large sheet pan or in a roasting tin.
2. Pour over the prepared sauce and rub it in thoroughly so everything is fully coated.

Step 5: Bake

Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 40 minutes or until:
– The potatoes are tender.
– The chicken is cooked through.

Let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for an added touch! Enjoy your delicious one pan meal!

How to Serve One Pan Chicken and Potatoes

One Pan Chicken and Potatoes is not only a delicious main dish but also versatile in its serving options. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this hearty meal.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: Toss together fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a light and refreshing side.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with a tangy dressing complements the flavors of the chicken beautifully.

Add Some Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side to soak up the delicious juices from the chicken.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft and fluffy dinner rolls can be perfect for a comforting addition to your meal.

Enhance with Vegetables

• Roasted Vegetables: Include seasonal vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini roasted alongside your chicken.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish.

Create a Saucy Twist

• Gravy: Drizzle homemade or store-bought gravy over the chicken for added richness.
• Chimichurri Sauce: A zesty chimichurri sauce brings an herby kick that pairs well with roasted potatoes.

How to Perfect One Pan Chicken and Potatoes

Perfecting One Pan Chicken and Potatoes is all about technique and timing. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.

• Choose the Right Cut: Use bone-in, skin-on thighs and drumsticks for tender meat that stays juicy during cooking.
• Cut Evenly Sized Potatoes: Ensure potatoes are cut into uniform pieces so they cook evenly alongside the chicken.
• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning; it enhances the flavors of both the chicken and potatoes significantly.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can elevate the flavor profile of your dish immensely.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Chicken and Potatoes

Serving One Pan Chicken and Potatoes allows you to explore various side dishes that complement it perfectly. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side that pairs well with roasted chicken.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing balances out the hearty nature of the chicken dish.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs, diced vegetables, and a lemon vinaigrette adds freshness to your plate.
4. Sautéed Green Beans: Quickly sautéed green beans with olive oil and garlic offer a crisp texture that contrasts wonderfully with tender chicken.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob, grilled or boiled, brings sweetness to your meal while being easy to prepare.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Roasted sweet potatoes offer a nutritious twist while enhancing the overall flavor of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking One Pan Chicken and Potatoes can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to avoid. Here are some mistakes that could affect your dish:

• Skipping seasoning: Failing to season adequately can lead to bland flavors. Always ensure you use enough salt and spices in your marinade or sauce.
• Not drying the chicken and potatoes: Moisture can prevent proper browning. Pat them dry with kitchen paper before cooking for a crispier texture.
• Overcrowding the pan: Placing too much chicken and potatoes in one pan may lead to steaming instead of roasting. Give them space for even cooking.
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking for too long can dry out the chicken. Keep an eye on the clock and check for doneness to maintain juiciness.
• Using the wrong pan: A non-stick or heavy-duty roasting pan works best. Avoid using flimsy pans that may warp under high heat.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing One Pan Chicken and Potatoes

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Consider portioning into smaller containers for quick meals later.

Reheating One Pan Chicken and Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals until hot, typically around 3-5 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing One Pan Chicken and Potatoes:

How can I customize One Pan Chicken and Potatoes?

You can add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli. Just make sure they have similar cooking times as the potatoes.

What type of potatoes work best?

Yukon Gold or red potatoes are great choices due to their creamy texture and ability to hold shape during cooking.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can swap chicken for turkey or even beef if you prefer a different protein.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Consider serving with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Chicken and Potatoes is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to adapt according to your taste preferences. With its juicy chicken and crispy potatoes, it’s perfect for any night of the week. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs!