Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner recipe? Look no further! This recipe for roasted chicken thighs and potatoes is a weeknight winner, perfect for busy families and solo cooks alike. It's a simple yet elegant dish that boasts incredible flavor and requires minimal cleanup—a serious bonus in our book! This recipe is packed with healthy ingredients and offers a satisfying meal the whole family will enjoy. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1.5 lbs small red potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 large onion, cut into wedges
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional, for added flavor and visual appeal)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and chop all your vegetables. This simple prep work ensures a smooth cooking process.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken (Optional but Recommended)
In a large bowl, toss the chicken thighs with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes (or longer, for deeper flavor). This step is optional but highly recommended as it helps the chicken absorb the spices beautifully.
Step 3: Roast to Perfection
In a large roasting pan, combine the marinated chicken, potatoes, and onion wedges. Toss everything together to coat evenly with the spices and oil. If using, add fresh rosemary sprigs for an extra layer of aroma and taste.
Step 4: Baking Time
Roast for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender. You can check the chicken's internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C). For extra crispy potatoes, you can broil for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure your chicken and potatoes have enough space to roast evenly. If necessary, use two roasting pans.
- Adjust seasoning to your liking: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. A dash of cayenne pepper adds a nice kick!
- Use bone-in chicken thighs: For a richer flavor and more tender meat, consider using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli florets to your roasting pan.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Chicken and Potatoes: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the marinade.
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and potatoes during the last 10 minutes of roasting.
- Spicy Chicken and Potatoes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This recipe is a simple, healthy and delicious meal perfect for any day of the week. Enjoy this easy and flavorful dish! We hope you love this recipe as much as we do! Remember to share your culinary creations with us using #ChickenPotatoRoast. Happy cooking!