This delicious sheet pan chicken with asparagus and potatoes is a simple yet hearty meal to prepare. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, the recipe combines the savoury, juicy chicken with the earthy asparagus and potatoes in one pan for an easy cleanup. The addition of sweet onions and lemon thyme heightens the flavor, making this dish a crowd-pleaser.
The recipe calls for new potatoes which are smaller and thinner-skinned than regular ones, yielding a tender texture and sweet flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients. Lemon thyme is a citrus-scented herb that enhances the overall taste of the dish. If you can't find it in your local supermarket, you can substitute it with regular thyme and some fresh lemon zest.
Ingredients for Sheet Pan Chicken with Asparagus and Potatoes
New potatoes: These are young, small potatoes that have a sweet, tender texture. They roast quickly and soak up the flavors of the other ingredients well.
Sweet onions: These are milder than regular onions and add a hint of sweetness to the dish.
Lemon: Brings a tangy freshness that balances the richness of the chicken.
Lemon thyme: This herb gives a subtle citrus flavor that enhances the taste of chicken and vegetables.
Olive oil: Used for roasting the ingredients, it adds a rich, fruity note to the dish.
Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings that highlight the natural flavors of the food.
Chicken breast halves: This lean meat becomes tender and juicy when cooked properly.
Chicken legs: Dark meat that is flavorful and maintains its moisture during roasting.
Asparagus: A nutrient-rich vegetable that adds a crisp, earthy component to the meal.
One reader, Collete Mathis says:
This sheet pan chicken with asparagus and potatoes recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the dish is so easy to prepare. The chicken comes out tender and juicy, and the asparagus and potatoes are a delightful addition. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a hassle-free, delicious meal.
Key Techniques for Perfecting Sheet Pan Chicken with Asparagus and Potatoes
How to prepare the vegetables for roasting: Combine the new potatoes, onions, lemon, herb sprigs, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss well and spread on a rimmed baking sheet.
How to roast the vegetables: Roast the prepared vegetables for 40 minutes at 375°F, or until the potatoes are almost tender when pierced with a skewer.
How to prepare the chicken: Sprinkle the chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, and thyme leaves.
How to add the chicken to the vegetables and roast: Move the vegetables aside to make room for the chicken. Set the chicken in the pan, skin side up, and continue cooking for 30 minutes.
How to prepare the asparagus: Snap the spears near the base and cut them in half to make shorter lengths. Toss the asparagus with olive oil in a bowl.
How to add the asparagus and roast: After the chicken has been roasting for 30 minutes, scatter the asparagus around the chicken and continue roasting for 10 to 20 minutes.
How to serve the chicken: Discard the cooked thyme sprigs, separate the chicken pieces, and arrange them with the vegetables on a platter.
How To Make Sheet Pan Chicken with Asparagus and Potatoes
Welcome spring with this recipe for sheet pan chicken that’s also cooked along with fresh asparagus and potatoes. It’s a dish that’s easy to prep and clean.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 16smallnew potatoes,(red or golden), halved
- 3smallsweet onions,(such as vidalia or walla walla), quartered through the roots or (1 large super sweet onion, cut into thin wedges)
- 1mediumlemon,very thinly sliced
- largehandful fresh lemon thyme,(or other fresh herb, oregano, marjoram, or thyme)
- 5tbspolive oil
- 1tspsalt,or more to taste
- ½tspblack pepper,or more to taste
- 1½lbschicken breast halves,bone in
- ½lbswhole chicken legs,(thighs and drumsticks attached or 2 legs and 2 drumsticks)
- 1lbfresh asparagus
Instructions
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Heat the oven to 375 degrees F. In a bowl, combine the new potatoes, onions, lemon, a few of the herb sprigs, 2 tablespoons of the olive oil, and half the salt and pepper. Toss well and spread on a rimmed baking sheet.
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Roast the vegetables for 40 minutes, or until the potatoes are almost tender when pierced with a skewer.
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While the vegetables roast, sprinkle the chicken with 2 tablespoons of the remaining olive oil, and the remaining salt and pepper. Remove the leaves from several thyme springs and scatter them on the chicken.
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Move the vegetables in the pan aside to make room for the chicken. Set the chicken in the pan, skin side up, so it isn’t sitting on vegetables. Continue cooking for 30 minutes.
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Snap the spears near the base, where they break without much effort. Cut the spears in half to make shorter lengths. In a bowl, toss the asparagus with the remaining 1 tablespoon oil.
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After the chicken has been roasting for 30 minutes, pull out the sheet pan and scatter the asparagus around the chicken.
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Continue roasting for 10 to 20 minutes, or until the chicken pieces all register at least 165 degrees F in the thickest part of the meat on an instant-read thermometer.
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All of the vegetables should also be cooked through. (Total cooking time is roughly 1½ hours.) If the chicken isn’t brown enough, slide the pan under the broiler for 2 minutes, watching it carefully to avoid burning.
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Discard the cooked thyme sprigs. Use kitchen shears to separate the legs to form 2 drumsticks and 2 thighs. Snip the breasts in half horizontally.
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Arrange the chicken and vegetables on a platter. Remove the thyme from the remaining fresh sprigs and sprinkle it over the chicken.
Nutrition
- Calories: 855.50kcal
- Fat: 42.31g
- Saturated Fat: 9.48g
- Trans Fat: 0.21g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 22.58g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.22g
- Carbohydrates: 66.73g
- Fiber: 10.95g
- Sugar: 13.87g
- Protein: 54.45g
- Cholesterol: 161.59mg
- Sodium: 770.05mg
- Calcium: 144.81mg
- Potassium: 2088.89mg
- Iron: 7.65mg
- Vitamin A: 111.46µg
- Vitamin C: 81.99mg
Expert Advice for Mastering Sheet Pan Chicken with Asparagus and Potatoes
When preparing the asparagus, ensure to snap off the woody ends. This part of the asparagus is tough and fibrous, making it unpleasant to eat. The best way to do this is to hold the asparagus spear at both ends and bend it gently. It will naturally snap at the point where the tender part meets the tough stem. This way, you're left with the most tender and flavorful part of the asparagus to include in your sheet pan chicken dish.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Sheet Pan Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and marinate the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Use pre-cut vegetables: Consider using pre-cut vegetables to save time on prep work.
Multi-task: While the vegetables are roasting, prepare the chicken to maximize efficiency.
Invest in a good sheet pan: A high-quality sheet pan can help distribute heat evenly and prevent sticking, making cleanup easier.
Cook in batches: If you have a smaller oven, consider cooking the vegetables and chicken in batches to ensure even cooking.
Substitute Ingredients For Sheet Pan Chicken with Asparagus and Potatoes Recipe
new potatoes - Substitute with baby potatoes: Baby potatoes are smaller and cook faster, making them a suitable substitute for new potatoes in this recipe.
sweet onions - Substitute with yellow onions: Yellow onions have a similar sweet flavor and can be used as a substitute for sweet onions in this recipe.
lemon - Substitute with lime: Lime can be used as a substitute for lemon to provide a similar citrusy flavor to the dish.
lemon thyme - Substitute with regular thyme: Regular thyme can be used as a substitute for lemon thyme, providing a similar earthy and herby flavor to the dish.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can be used as a substitute for olive oil, providing a mild and buttery flavor to the dish.
chicken breast - Substitute with turkey breast: Turkey breast can be used as a substitute for chicken breast, providing a lean and flavorful protein option.
chicken legs - Substitute with turkey legs: Turkey legs can be used as a substitute for chicken legs, providing a rich and juicy meat option.
asparagus - Substitute with green beans: Green beans can be used as a substitute for asparagus, providing a similar crunchy texture and fresh flavor to the dish.
Presentation Tips for a Delicious Sheet Pan Meal
Elevate the plating: When presenting the sheet pan chicken with asparagus and potatoes, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing arrangement on the plate. Ensure that the chicken, asparagus, and potatoes are arranged thoughtfully, showcasing each element of the dish.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Utilize the natural colors of the ingredients to create a visually stunning presentation. The golden-brown chicken, vibrant green asparagus, and the earthy tones of the roasted potatoes should be showcased to create a visually appealing dish.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the finished dish with freshly chopped thyme and lemon zest to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor. The aromatic herbs and citrus zest will enhance the overall presentation and provide a delightful aroma.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the dish to stand out. Avoid overcrowding the plate and allow the components of the dish to shine individually.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each element on the plate, ensuring that the dish is presented with precision and attention to detail. This meticulous approach will demonstrate a high level of culinary expertise.
Consider the plate shape and size: Choose a plate that complements the dish and allows the colors and textures to stand out. The plate should provide a visually appealing backdrop for the sheet pan chicken with asparagus and potatoes.
Highlight the textures: Showcase the varied textures of the dish by arranging the components in a way that highlights the crispy skin of the chicken, the tender asparagus, and the roasted potatoes, creating a visually and texturally appealing presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Sheet Pan Chicken
- Oven: An essential appliance for roasting the chicken, asparagus, and potatoes.
- Rimmed baking sheet: Used to roast the vegetables and chicken in the oven.
- Instant-read thermometer: Essential for checking the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it's fully cooked.
- Kitchen shears: Used for separating the chicken legs and thighs to serve them.
Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Sheet Pan Chicken Leftovers
- Let the sheet pan chicken cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- To freeze the leftovers, place the cooled chicken, potatoes, and asparagus in separate freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn. Label the containers with the date and contents.
- Frozen sheet pan chicken can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw the containers in the refrigerator overnight.
- To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the thawed chicken and vegetables on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes on high power.
- Keep in mind that the texture of the vegetables may change slightly after freezing and reheating, but the flavor should still be delicious. The asparagus may become softer and less crisp after freezing, so it's best to consume it within a month for optimal quality.
The Best Methods for Reheating Leftover Sheet Pan Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the leftover sheet pan chicken, asparagus, and potatoes on a baking sheet. Cover the sheet pan loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the chicken and vegetables from drying out. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken and vegetables are heated through.
For a quicker reheating method, use your microwave. Place the leftover chicken, asparagus, and potatoes in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until the food is heated through. Be sure to check the temperature of the chicken to ensure it has reached a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover sheet pan meal. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken, asparagus, and potatoes in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd it. Air fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the food is heated through and the chicken skin is crispy.
For a stovetop method, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan. Once the oil or butter is hot, add the leftover chicken, asparagus, and potatoes. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the food is heated through.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your reheated meal, try squeezing some fresh lemon juice over the chicken and vegetables before reheating. You can also sprinkle some fresh herbs, such as thyme or parsley, over the dish for a burst of freshness.
Interesting Trivia About Sheet Pan Chicken with Asparagus and Potatoes
The sheet pan chicken with asparagus and potatoes recipe is a great way to incorporate a variety of vegetables and proteins into a single dish, making it a convenient and nutritious meal option for busy weeknights. This recipe also allows for easy customization by adding different herbs and spices to suit individual tastes. Additionally, the use of a sheet pan simplifies the cooking process and minimizes cleanup, making it a practical choice for home cooks. With its balanced combination of flavors and textures, this dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Budget-Friendly Benefits of Making Sheet Pan Chicken at Home
The cost-effectiveness of this sheet pan chicken with asparagus and potatoes recipe is quite high. The ingredients, such as chicken, asparagus, and potatoes, are generally affordable and readily available. The recipe yields a substantial amount of food, making it suitable for a family of four. The total cost for the ingredients is approximately $20, making it a budget-friendly option. The versatility of the dish and the use of simple, economical ingredients contribute to its cost-effectiveness. Overall Verdict: 9/10.
Is This Sheet Pan Chicken Recipe Healthy?
The sheet pan chicken with asparagus and potatoes recipe is a relatively healthy meal, as it includes a good balance of protein, vegetables, and complex carbohydrates. The chicken provides lean protein, while the asparagus and potatoes offer fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The use of olive oil, a healthy fat, is also beneficial. However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the recipe even healthier:
- The recipe calls for a significant amount of olive oil (5 tablespoons), which can increase the calorie content. Reducing the amount of oil used or substituting some of it with a lower-calorie cooking spray could help lower the overall calorie count.
- While potatoes provide complex carbohydrates, they are also relatively high in starch. Substituting some or all of the potatoes with other non-starchy vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots, could increase the nutrient density of the meal.
- The recipe does not specify the removal of the chicken skin, which is high in saturated fat. Removing the skin before cooking or before serving can help reduce the saturated fat content.
To further enhance the healthiness of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:
- Incorporate additional non-starchy vegetables to increase the fiber, vitamin, and mineral content of the meal. Examples include bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, or cherry tomatoes.
- Use a combination of white and sweet potatoes to provide a balance of complex carbohydrates and beneficial nutrients, such as beta-carotene and vitamin C.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to add flavor without relying on excessive amounts of salt or oil. Examples include garlic, rosemary, oregano, or smoked paprika.
- Opt for organic ingredients whenever possible to minimize exposure to potential pesticides or hormones.
Our Editor's Honest Opinion on This Sheet Pan Chicken Dish
The recipe for sheet pan chicken with asparagus and potatoes is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of fresh lemon thyme and lemon adds a bright, citrusy note to the dish, while the roasted vegetables and chicken create a comforting and satisfying meal. The cooking method ensures that everything is cooked to perfection, resulting in tender and juicy chicken alongside perfectly roasted vegetables. This recipe is a wonderful option for a simple yet impressive weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends and family.
Enhance Your Sheet Pan Chicken with Asparagus and Potatoes Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Tasty Variations on the Classic Sheet Pan Chicken Recipe
Appetizer and Dessert Ideas for a Complete Sheet Pan Chicken Meal
Why trust this Sheet Pan Chicken with Asparagus and Potatoes Recipe:
This sheet pan chicken with asparagus and potatoes recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of fresh lemon and thyme infuses the dish with bright, aromatic notes, while the olive oil ensures a rich and savory taste. The method of roasting the chicken and vegetables together allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a cohesive and satisfying meal. The inclusion of fresh asparagus adds a vibrant and nutritious element to the dish, making it a wholesome and balanced choice for any occasion.
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