If you’re looking for a meal that combines simplicity with incredible flavor, this One Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need in your dinner rotation. Imagine tender, juicy chicken thighs and drumsticks baked alongside perfectly roasted potatoes, all infused with bright lemon, aromatic herbs, and a touch of garlic that hits every note just right. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, effortlessly coming together in one pan for minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will quickly become a go-to favorite for weeknights and special occasions alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this One Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Potatoes Recipe lies in its straightforward yet essential ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role, from the zesty lemon juice to the earthy oregano, creating layers of flavor that balance perfectly with the crispy golden potatoes and succulent chicken.
- Chicken thighs and drumsticks (2 lb): Choose bone-in for extra juiciness and flavor.
- Potatoes (22 oz): Baby or Yukon gold potatoes work best for roasting to a crisp outside and tender inside.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Adds a savory depth that complements the lemon and herbs beautifully.
- Olive oil (1/4 cup): Helps everything crisp up and carry the flavors without being greasy.
- Lemon juice (1/2 cup): Brings freshness and brightness that lifts the entire dish.
- Lemon zest (1 Tbsp): Intensifies the lemony aroma and taste for that perfect citrus punch.
- Tomato paste (1 1/2 Tbsp): Adds a subtle richness and balances the acidity with sweetness.
- Salt (1 tsp): Enhances all the flavors, so don’t skimp here.
- Dried oregano (1/2 Tbsp): Provides a classic herbaceous note that pairs wonderfully with lemon.
- Black pepper (1/2 tsp): Offers a gentle heat without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Paprika (1 tsp): Adds smoky warmth and beautiful color.
- Chopped parsley: For a fresh, bright garnish that brings everything together visually and flavor-wise.
How to Make One Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures you bake your chicken and potatoes at just the right temperature for a golden, crispy finish with juicy interiors. Having the oven ready in advance helps the dish cook evenly from the moment it goes in.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, tomato paste, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, oregano, black pepper, and paprika. This sauce is the heart of your One Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Potatoes Recipe, blending tangy, savory, and aromatic flavors into a marinade that clings to every bite.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken and Potatoes
Pat your chicken pieces dry with paper towels—this helps achieve that desirable crispy skin. If your potatoes are large, chop them into bite-sized chunks so they cook evenly with the chicken. Then, arrange everything evenly across a large sheet pan to give each piece plenty of room to roast perfectly.
Step 4: Coat with Sauce
Now, pour your bright and flavorful sauce over the chicken and potatoes. Use a spoon or brush to make sure every piece is generously coated. This step ensures every forkful bursts with the zesty lemon and herb goodness you’re craving.
Step 5: Bake
Place the pan in your preheated oven and let it bake for about 40 minutes. You’re looking for tender potatoes and fully cooked chicken—internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is your safety checkpoint. The aroma filling your kitchen at this stage is nothing short of mouthwatering.
Step 6: Rest and Garnish
When baking is done, take the pan out and let it rest for 5 minutes. This short pause redistributes those delicious juices inside the chicken, keeping it moist and flavorful. Sprinkle plenty of freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and refreshing brightness before serving.
How to Serve One Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a simple yet effective garnish that adds a lovely contrast to the golden chicken and potatoes. You might also try a few lemon wedges on the side for an extra citrus squeeze or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to enhance textures and taste.
Side Dishes
This dish is a well-rounded meal in itself, but if you want to round it out further, crisp green beans or a simple mixed salad can bring fresh crunch and vibrant colors to your plate. A side of steamed asparagus or roasted carrots works beautifully as well.
Creative Ways to Present
For a rustic, family-style feel, serve directly from the sheet pan or transfer to a large platter. If hosting a dinner party, arrange the chicken and potatoes neatly on a serving platter, garnished with parsley sprigs and lemon slices to impress your guests with both taste and presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The lemon herb flavors mature beautifully overnight, making for delicious next-day meals or quick lunches.
Freezing
This One Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Potatoes Recipe freezes well. Place cooled portions into freezer-safe bags or containers. Label and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the chicken skin regains some crispness. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the texture of both chicken and potatoes.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs and drumsticks?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that breasts cook faster and can dry out more easily, so reduce baking time accordingly and keep an eye on internal temperature to ensure juicy results.
What type of potatoes are best for this recipe?
Baby potatoes or Yukon gold potatoes are ideal because they roast evenly and develop that perfect crispy outside with a fluffy interior, complementing the chicken perfectly.
Is it necessary to use tomato paste in the marinade?
Tomato paste adds richness and a slight sweetness that helps balance the acidity of the lemon. While it’s not mandatory, it really enhances the overall flavor profile.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can marinate the chicken and potatoes in the sauce a few hours in advance or overnight to deepen the flavors. Just keep it covered in the fridge until ready to bake.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer and check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Additionally, the juices should run clear and the meat should feel firm but not dry.
Final Thoughts
I wholeheartedly encourage you to try the One Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Potatoes Recipe—it’s the kind of dish that feels both special and incredibly approachable. With its vibrant flavors, easy preparation, and minimal cleanup, it hits all the right notes for any meal. Once you make it, I’m sure it will become a beloved recipe in your kitchen, bringing joy to your table time and again.
Print
One Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This One Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Potatoes recipe offers a simple and flavorful meal featuring juicy chicken thighs and drumsticks roasted alongside tender potatoes in a zesty lemon and herb marinade. Perfect for a hassle-free dinner, this dish combines garlic, tomato paste, oregano, and paprika to create a bright and savory profile with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lb chicken thighs and drumsticks
- 22 oz potatoes
Marinade and Seasonings
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 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, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it maintains the optimal temperature for even cooking and crisping of both the chicken and potatoes.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, tomato paste, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, dried oregano, black pepper, and paprika until fully combined. This mixture will serve as a vibrant marinade that imparts deep flavor to the dish.
- Prepare the Chicken and Potatoes: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to help achieve crispy skin. If the potatoes are large, chop them into bite-sized pieces to promote even roasting. Arrange the chicken and potatoes evenly on a large sheet pan, ensuring they are spaced to allow proper heat circulation.
- Coat with Sauce: Pour the prepared lemon herb sauce evenly over the chicken and potatoes, using a spoon or basting brush to coat all surfaces thoroughly. This will ensure every bite is infused with flavor.
- Bake: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes. Bake until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), indicating it is safely cooked through.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the pan from the oven and let the chicken and potatoes rest for 5 minutes to redistribute the juices for moist, tender meat. Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and fresh herbaceous notes before serving.
Notes
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks for the best flavor and texture.
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry before coating to achieve crispy skin.
- Cut potatoes evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate as the chicken.
- Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it is fully cooked for food safety.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
