One Pan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe

If you’re craving a delicious, comforting dinner that feels effortlessly elegant, you’re going to love this One Pan Chicken and Potatoes. This dish brings together juicy, perfectly roasted chicken thighs and drumsticks paired with tender, golden potatoes, all infused with zesty lemon, fragrant garlic, and a touch of smoky paprika. The beauty of this recipe is how everything cooks together on one pan, making cleanup a breeze while delivering layers of flavor and texture that always impress. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this One Pan Chicken and Potatoes are delightfully straightforward but pack a big punch in terms of flavor, texture, and color. Each element plays an essential role: from the citrus zing of lemon juice and zest to the aromatic punch of garlic and oregano, these key staples transform simple chicken and potatoes into something truly special.

• Chicken (thighs and drumsticks, 2 lb): Juicy and flavorful cuts that stay tender through roasting.
• Potatoes (22 oz): Starchy and hearty, give a crispy outside and soft inside texture.
• Garlic (4 large cloves): Adds a warm, savory undertone that harmonizes with the lemon.
• Olive oil (1/4 cup): Keeps everything moist and helps the seasoning stick.
• Lemon juice (1/2 cup): Brightens the dish with a refreshing tang.
• Lemon zest (1 Tbsp): Intensifies the citrus flavor without adding acidity.
• Tomato paste (1 1/2 Tbsp): Provides a subtle depth and richness to the sauce.
• Salt (1 tsp): Enhances every ingredient’s natural flavor.
• Dried oregano (1/2 Tbsp): Brings a classic herbaceous note that pairs perfectly with poultry.
• Black pepper (1/2 tsp): Adds gentle warmth and complexity.
• Paprika (1 tsp): Lends a smoky color and subtle spice.
• Parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant pop of green that brightens the finished dish.

How to Make One Pan Chicken and Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Sauce

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Then, in a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, tomato paste, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, dried oregano, black pepper, and paprika. Mix these together until you form a fragrant, well-blended sauce that will infuse the chicken and potatoes with incredible flavor.

Step 2: Prep the Potatoes and Chicken

Chop the potatoes into even-sized pieces if needed so they cook uniformly. Pat the chicken and potatoes dry with paper towels to remove moisture—this step helps achieve a beautiful crisp on the outside of both the chicken skin and potato edges.

Step 3: Arrange and Coat Everything on the Pan

Spread the chicken pieces and potatoes in a single layer on a large sheet pan or roasting tin. Pour the sauce over everything, then use your hands or a spatula to rub it in thoroughly, coating the chicken and potatoes evenly. This ensures every bite is bursting with those bright, savory flavors.

Step 4: Roast to Perfection

Place the pan in the oven and roast for 40 minutes. You’ll want to check that the potatoes are tender with a fork and the chicken is cooked through with juices running clear. This roasting time melds all the flavors beautifully while creating a gorgeous golden finish on the dish.

Step 5: Rest and Garnish

Once cooked, let the chicken and potatoes rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken incredibly moist. Just before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh, inviting finish.

How to Serve One Pan Chicken and Potatoes

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is the perfect finishing touch, adding a vibrant green color and a subtle herbaceous flavor that lifts the entire dish. For an extra burst of citrus, try adding a few lemon wedges on the side so everyone can add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if they like.

Side Dishes

This dish is satisfying on its own, but if you want to add a side, a simple green salad or steamed green beans with a drizzle of olive oil complements it beautifully. A crusty baguette or garlic bread also pairs wonderfully, perfect for soaking up any flavorful pan juices leftover.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the chicken and potatoes family-style right from the roasting pan or arrange portions on plates with a sprinkle of extra parsley and lemon zest. Consider adding roasted cherry tomatoes or olives on the side for a Mediterranean flair that brightens up the plate visually and flavor-wise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers of your One Pan Chicken and Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it an even more delicious lunch the next day. Eat within 3 to 4 days for best quality and safety.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken and potatoes in a freezer-safe container or bag. Label it with the date and consume within 2 to 3 months. To freeze best, cool completely before packing and avoid stacking too tightly to prevent soggy potatoes upon reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or use a microwave if short on time, covering loosely to retain moisture. Reheating slowly helps keep the chicken juicy and the potatoes crispier than microwave-only reheats.

FAQs

Can I use different cuts of chicken for this dish?

Absolutely! While thighs and drumsticks are ideal for their flavor and tenderness, bone-in breasts or even boneless pieces can work with slight adjustments in cooking time to avoid drying out.

What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Yukon Gold or red potatoes are perfect because they hold shape well and crisp nicely. Russets work too but may fall apart more easily; just chop them a bit larger.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, One Pan Chicken and Potatoes is naturally gluten-free as long as you use pure olive oil and check seasoning labels to avoid any hidden gluten.

How do I ensure the chicken skin gets crispy?

Patting the chicken dry and roasting at the right temperature helps a lot. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan so hot air circulates and crisps the skin evenly.

Can I add other vegetables to the pan?

Definitely! Feel free to add carrots, bell peppers, or green beans at appropriate sizes so they cook in the same time frame as potatoes and chicken.

Final Thoughts

If you want a meal that feels special but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, this One Pan Chicken and Potatoes recipe is a fantastic choice. It’s straightforward, flavorful, and comforting—everything you want for a satisfying dinner any night of the week. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll become one of your go-to favorites as it has for me!

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