This One Pan Chicken with Sweet Potatoes is a cozy dish that’s perfect for busy days. With juicy chicken and sweet, tender potatoes, it brings comfort and flavor without the fuss!
I love how everything cooks together in one pan, which means less mess to clean up! You just chop, season, and let the oven work its magic—easy peasy! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs stay juicy and flavorful during roasting. If you prefer, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breast, but adjust the cooking time as they take less time to cook.
Sweet Potatoes: The star of the dish! You can try butternut squash or even regular potatoes if sweet potatoes aren’t available. Each will bring a different flavor but still be delicious.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds great color and nutrition. Feel free to swap it with green beans or Brussels sprouts—both are lovely roasted and will pair well with the chicken.
Seasonings: The combination of smoked paprika and garlic powder gives great flavor. If you like a little kick, the cayenne is fantastic! For a different taste, experiment with Italian herbs like oregano or basil.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the chicken just right can be a concern. Here’s how to ensure it’s juicy and cooked through:
- Start by ensuring your oven is fully preheated before placing the pan inside. This helps all the ingredients cook evenly.
- Using an instant-read thermometer is key. The internal temperature of the chicken should hit 165°F (75°C) to be safe yet juicy.
- Monitor the time, but remember ovens can vary. If using smaller pieces of chicken, check a few minutes earlier.
Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving helps keep it juicy, too! Enjoy your meal with confidence!
One Pan Chicken With Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion, sliced
For the Seasoning:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh rosemary for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This one-pan meal requires about 10-15 minutes for preparation and around 35-40 minutes for cooking. Total, you’ll be looking at approximately 50-55 minutes from start to finish, making it a fairly quick yet satisfying meal option for a busy evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures everything cooks evenly as you prepare the ingredients.
2. Prepare the Seasoning:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper. Stir well to create a flavorful seasoning paste.
3. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken thighs and add them to the bowl with the seasoning. Use your hands to rub the seasoning all over the chicken, ensuring they are well coated.
4. Arrange the Vegetables:
On a large baking sheet or roasting pan, evenly spread out the diced sweet potatoes and sliced onions. Drizzle with a little olive oil and toss everything to ensure they are coated in seasoning.
5. Add the Chicken:
Once your vegetables are set, arrange the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the sweet potatoes and onions. This way, all those juices will seep down into the veggies and create delicious flavor!
6. Roast in the Oven:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and roast for 25 minutes. This helps the chicken cook through while getting crispy on the outside.
7. Add Broccoli:
After the initial roasting time, scatter the broccoli florets around the chicken and sweet potatoes. Roast everything together for an additional 10-15 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the chicken is cooked through. You can check for doneness using an instant-read thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C).
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is cooked to perfection, take the pan out of the oven. Optional but recommended—garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme for added aroma and presentation. Then, serve hot, and enjoy your wholesome meal!
This recipe is not only flavorful but also easy to clean up, allowing you to enjoy your meal with minimal effort. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but remember they will cook faster. Start checking for doneness around 20 minutes to avoid drying them out.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Vegetables?
If you don’t have fresh broccoli or sweet potatoes, frozen versions can work in a pinch! Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly, as frozen veggies may need a bit longer to become tender and heat through.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to keep things moist.
Can I Make This Meal in Advance?
Yes! You can prep the chicken and vegetables with the seasoning, then store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before cooking. Just bring them to room temperature before roasting for the best results!