One Pan Lemon Chicken And Potatoes

Name: One Pan Lemon Chicken And Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 2 large potatoes, cut into wedges; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Juice and zest of 2 lemons; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Plates

When it comes to weeknight dinners, I love a recipe that simplifies my life while delivering on flavor, and One Pan Lemon Chicken and Potatoes does just that. In just 40 minutes, I can have a satisfying meal on the table that’s bursting with bright citrus notes. The combination of juicy chicken and tender potatoes, all cooked together, lets the flavors meld perfectly. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze since everything is cooked in one pan, leaving me more time to relax after dinner.

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-14T22:09:36.425Z

While experimenting with different chicken recipes, I stumbled upon the delightful combination of lemon and herbs. This One Pan Lemon Chicken and Potatoes became an instant hit in my household. The zesty lemon not only brightens the dish but also tenderizes the chicken beautifully. I've found that using fresh lemons instead of bottled juice makes a noticeable difference in flavor.

One trick I adopted was to marinate the chicken in lemon juice and garlic for a little while before cooking. It enhances the flavor profile and ensures that every bite is juicy and packed with taste. Trust me, this easy method will make your weeknight meals shine!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bright and zesty lemon flavor enhances the chicken and potatoes
One pan means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor infusion
Perfectly cooked chicken that remains juicy and tender

The Importance of Marinading

Marinating the chicken thighs is a crucial step in achieving maximum flavor. By allowing the chicken to soak in the citrusy marinade for at least 15 minutes, it absorbs the zesty lemon and the fragrant garlic, resulting in a more succulent dish. For deeper flavor penetration, consider marinating for up to an hour if time allows; this will enhance the dish significantly and make the chicken truly stand out.

If you're short on time, marinating can be done while the oven preheats. Be sure to coat the chicken thoroughly in the marinade, making every bit of meat work its way into those tantalizing flavors. The oil in the marinade also serves to keep the chicken moist during baking.

Choosing the Right Potatoes

The type of potatoes you use can greatly impact the texture and flavor of your dish. Starchy potatoes, like Russets, become fluffy and pillowy when roasted, while waxy potatoes, such as Yukon golds, hold their shape better and have a creamier texture. For a balance of both, I often choose a mix; this gives a variety of textures and bite in every forkful.

Cut the potatoes into wedges that are roughly the same size to ensure even cooking. If you find they take longer to cook than the chicken, consider pre-boiling them for a few minutes or roasting them separately for the first 10-15 minutes to achieve that perfect tenderness without drying out the chicken.

Serving Suggestions

This One Pan Lemon Chicken and Potatoes pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. The bright lemon flavor makes it especially complementary to a light side like a cucumber and tomato salad, sprinkled with feta cheese. When it comes to plating, be sure to drizzle any remaining pan juices over the chicken and potatoes for that enticing finish.

For those looking to add a bit of variety, consider a side of quinoa or rice pilaf, which can soak up the delicious pan juices. This dish also works well for meal prep; it holds up in the refrigerator for up to three days, retaining its vibrant flavors when reheated. If reheating, aim for a gentle warmth in the oven or a microwave to prevent overcooking the chicken.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Potatoes

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2 large potatoes, cut into wedges
3 tablespoons olive oil
Juice and zest of 2 lemons
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to adjust the lemon juice according to your taste preferences!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Reserve a bit of the marinade for later.

Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let them sit for at least 15 minutes.

Arrange in a Pan

Place the marinated chicken thighs in a large baking dish or pan, and add the potato wedges around them.

Bake

Drizzle the reserved marinade over the chicken and potatoes. Bake for 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh parsley over the chicken and potatoes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious one pan meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add other vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers to the dish.

Tips for One-Pan Perfection

To get that coveted golden brown crust on your chicken, make sure your oven is properly preheated to 400°F (200°C) before placing the dish inside. Also, positioning your pan on the center rack allows for even heat distribution, minimizing the risk of burning or uneven cooking. If you prefer a crispier chicken skin, consider broiling the dish for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, keeping a close watch to avoid burning.

If you happen to have leftovers, you can easily repurpose the chicken and potatoes the next day. Slice the chicken and toss it into a wrap with fresh greens and a dollop of yogurt or hummus for a quick and tasty lunch.

Flavor Variations

If you're in the mood for an extra kick, try adding red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to the marinade for a spicy twist. Fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary can also be swapped with oregano, introducing new flavors without much effort. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility; you can tailor the seasoning to your palate perfectly.

For a Mediterranean flair, toss in some cherry tomatoes or olives with the chicken and potatoes before baking. These additions not only elevate the flavor profile but also add a beautiful pop of color to your dish.

Storage and Reheating

To store leftovers, cool the dish completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions. Just make sure the dish is cooled completely before freezing, and use freezer-safe containers to avoid freezer burn.

When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, the best reheating method is to use the oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover the dish with foil to retain moisture, and heat until warmed through, usually about 15-20 minutes. This method helps to revive the original texture, keeping your chicken juicy and potatoes tender.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?

Yes, just adjust the cooking time as bone-in chicken may take longer to cook through.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a nice sweetness to the dish.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used are gluten-free!