Sheet Pan Lemon Chicken with Crispy Potatoes

If you're looking for a quick and delicious dinner idea, this Sheet Pan Lemon Chicken with Crispy Potatoes is the perfect solution. It's a one-pan meal that’s easy to prepare, full of zesty flavor, and requires minimal cleanup. Whether you’re feeding your family or making a meal for two, this recipe is sure to become a weeknight favorite.
The secret to this dish is the lemon marinade. It infuses the chicken with bright, citrusy flavors while keeping it tender and juicy. Paired with golden, crispy potatoes, this recipe delivers a balanced meal that’s satisfying and simple to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps. You don’t need fancy tools or techniques, making it perfect for any skill level.
- Family-Friendly: The flavors are mild yet delicious, making it a dish that both kids and adults will enjoy.
- Healthy and Balanced: With lean protein, hearty potatoes, and the option to add vegetables, this meal is as nutritious as it is satisfying.
- Minimal Cleanup: Since everything cooks on a single sheet pan, you’ll spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your meal.
Tips for Success
- Cut Ingredients Evenly: Make sure to cut the chicken into 1-inch strips or cubes and the potatoes into 1-inch pieces. Uniform sizes help everything cook evenly and finish at the same time.
- Marinate for More Flavor: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, let it marinate overnight in the fridge. Even a quick 15-minute marination can make a big difference.
- Preheat Your Oven: Always preheat the oven to 425°F before starting. A hot oven ensures the chicken stays juicy and the potatoes turn golden and crispy.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spread the chicken and potatoes out on the sheet pan, leaving space between each piece. Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of roasting, resulting in less crispiness.
- Broil for a Crispy Finish: If you want extra crispiness, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, and you’ll get a golden, irresistible finish.
Variations
- Flavor Swaps: Try a honey mustard marinade or a garlic parmesan blend instead of the lemon marinade for a different flavor profile.
- Add Veggies: Include other vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots on the sheet pan. Cut them into similarly sized pieces for even cooking.
- Use Sweet Potatoes: Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes to add a touch of sweetness and more nutrients.
- Spicy Option: Add cayenne pepper or extra chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Switch the Protein: Use chicken thighs, drumsticks, or even turkey breast instead of chicken breast. Adjust the cooking time as needed for thicker cuts.
Sheet Pan Lemon Chicken with Crispy Potatoes
Try this easy Sheet Pan Lemon Chicken with Crispy Potatoes recipe! Marinated chicken and tender, golden potatoes roast together for a flavorful, fuss-free dinner in under 40 minutes.
- 1 lb chicken breast (cut into 1-inch thick strips or cubes)
- 1 lb baby potatoes (halved or quartered into 1-inch pieces)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp thyme (optional)
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (for potatoes, optional)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Prepare the Marinade:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp thyme (if using)
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste.
Marinate the Chicken:
- Add the chicken breast strips or cubes to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are coated. Cover and let sit for 30 minutes to 2 hours (or overnight in the fridge for maximum flavor).
Marinate the Potatoes:
- Toss the 1-inch potato pieces with about 1 tbsp of the marinade or prepare separately using:
- 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp paprika, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, and salt and pepper.
- Let sit while the oven preheats.
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
Start Roasting the Potatoes:
- Spread the potatoes evenly on the baking sheet. Roast for 10 minutes to give them a head start.
Add the Chicken:
- Remove the potatoes from the oven and push them to one side of the sheet. Place the marinated chicken pieces on the other side, ensuring they are spread out for even cooking.
Roast Together:
- Return the sheet pan to the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until:
- The chicken is cooked through (internal temp of 165°F).
- The potatoes are golden and crispy.
Optional Broil:
- For extra crispiness, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Pair with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.