Herb-Roasted Chicken and Potatoes: A Cozy, Flavor-Packed One-Pan Dinner
There’s something deeply comforting about a one-pan meal that fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of roasted herbs and savory chicken. This Herb-Roasted Chicken and Potatoes recipe is the epitome of simple, wholesome cooking—a dish that delivers crispy, golden chicken thighs, tender potatoes, and a symphony of earthy flavors with minimal effort. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner, this recipe is a family favorite that requires just a handful of ingredients and one baking dish for easy cleanup. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this foolproof meal will become a staple in your kitchen.
This recipe serves 4 and takes about 1 hour from prep to plate, including 45-50 minutes of hands-off baking time. It’s a hearty, satisfying dish that pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or steamed veggies. Let’s get roasting and bring some warmth to your table!
Ingredients
Gather these pantry staples and fresh herbs to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and comfort:
- For the Chicken and Potatoes:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks (about 1.5 lbs; bone-in ensures juiciness) 🍗
- 4 medium russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, diced into 1-inch cubes (about 1.5 lbs) 🥔
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 🫒
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder 🧄
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves) 🌿
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped) 🌿
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste) 🧂
- ¾ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (for a subtle smoky depth)
- For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for a pop of color and freshness) 🌿
- Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped, for an extra herby touch
- Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 medium onion, cut into wedges (for caramelized sweetness) 🧅
- 2-3 garlic cloves, peeled and left whole (for roasting) 🧄
- 1 lemon, sliced into wedges (for a zesty finish) 🍋
Equipment Needed
- Large baking dish or rimmed baking sheet
- Large mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Aluminum foil (optional, for covering during baking)
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Meat thermometer (optional, for checking doneness)
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a perfectly roasted chicken and potato dish that’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and infused with herbaceous goodness.
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and position a rack in the middle for even cooking.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a large baking dish or rimmed baking sheet with a drizzle of olive oil or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Season the Potatoes
- Dice the Potatoes: Wash and peel the potatoes (or leave the skin on for a rustic texture), then cut them into 1-inch cubes for even roasting.
- Toss with Seasonings: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon dried thyme, and ½ teaspoon dried rosemary. Toss well to coat evenly.
- Arrange in the Dish: Spread the seasoned potatoes in an even layer in the prepared baking dish. If using onion wedges or whole garlic cloves, add them now for extra flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the Chicken Dry: Use paper towels to pat the chicken thighs or drumsticks dry—this ensures crispy skin.
- Season the Chicken: In the same mixing bowl, combine the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon dried thyme, ½ teaspoon dried rosemary, and smoked paprika (if using). Rub this mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get under the skin for maximum flavor.
- Place on Potatoes: Nestle the seasoned chicken pieces on top of the potatoes, skin-side up, ensuring they’re evenly spaced.
Step 4: Roast to Perfection
- Bake the Dish: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The potatoes should be tender and lightly crispy on the edges.
- Check for Crispiness: If the chicken skin isn’t crispy enough, broil on high for 2-3 minutes at the end, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to lock in the juices.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Add Freshness: Sprinkle the chopped parsley (and chives, if using) over the chicken and potatoes for a vibrant finish.
- Optional Zest: Squeeze a lemon wedge over the dish for a bright, tangy note, or serve with lemon wedges on the side.
- Serve Hot: Transfer to a serving platter or serve straight from the baking dish for a rustic presentation. Dig in and enjoy the comforting flavors!
Tips for Success
- Crispy Skin Trick: For extra crispy chicken skin, let the seasoned chicken sit uncovered in the fridge for 30 minutes before roasting to dry out the skin.
- Even Cooking: Cut the potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure they roast evenly. If they’re browning too quickly, cover the dish with foil halfway through.
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken is fully cooked (165°F at the thickest part). If you don’t have one, pierce the chicken—if the juices run clear, it’s ready.
- Fresh Herbs Option: If using fresh thyme and rosemary, double the quantity and add them halfway through baking to prevent burning.
- Double the Recipe: Feeding a crowd? Double the ingredients and use a larger baking sheet, ensuring there’s enough space for air circulation.
Variations to Try
This versatile recipe can be customized to suit your preferences or pantry staples:
- Spicy Kick: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the chicken seasoning for a spicy twist.
- Mediterranean Style: Swap the thyme and rosemary for oregano and add sliced olives, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta cheese after baking.
- Garlic Butter Version: Mix 2 tablespoons melted butter with minced garlic and brush over the chicken and potatoes before roasting.
- Root Veggie Mix: Replace half the potatoes with diced carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes for a colorful, hearty variation.
- Herb Swap: Try dried sage or a poultry seasoning blend for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is a complete meal on its own, but these sides and drinks will elevate the experience:
- Sides: Serve with a crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette, steamed green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts.
- Drinks: Pair with a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, a light beer, or a sparkling apple cider for a non-alcoholic option.
- Bread: Add a slice of crusty garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the savory juices.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even tastier!
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness, or microwave in 30-second bursts until warmed through.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken and potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Herb-Roasted Chicken and Potatoes recipe is the definition of comfort food done right. The combination of juicy, herb-infused chicken and tender, golden potatoes creates a meal that’s both rustic and satisfying. It’s a one-pan wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your evening. Plus, the versatility of this dish allows you to tweak it to your taste, making it a go-to for any night of the week.
Fire up your oven, gather your ingredients, and let the magic of simple, wholesome cooking fill your home. Share your creations with us in the comments or tag us on social media with #RoastedChicken and #EasyDinner—we can’t wait to see your delicious results!
