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Sheet Pan Lemon Balsamic Chicken and Potatoes.


Ingredients

For the Chicken and Potatoes:

  • Baby Potatoes – 1 pound, halved: Provides a hearty base that becomes crispy and flavorful when roasted.
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil – 4 tablespoons plus 1/3 cup (approximately 140 milliliters): For roasting and dressing.
  • Salt – To taste: Enhances the overall flavor.
  • Black Pepper – To taste: Adds a bit of heat and complements the seasoning.
  • Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs – 6 pieces: Choose either for a juicy and tender result.
  • Balsamic Vinegar – 2 tablespoons: Adds a tangy depth to the marinade.
  • Dijon Mustard – 2 tablespoons: Provides a subtle tanginess and helps the spices adhere to the chicken.
  • Fresh Chopped Oregano – 1 tablespoon: Adds a fragrant, herbal note.
  • Smoked or Regular Paprika – 2 teaspoons: Provides a warm, smoky flavor.
  • Garlic Cloves – 6, chopped: Adds a robust, savory flavor.
  • Shallot – 1, chopped: Adds a mild, sweet onion flavor.
  • Chili Flakes – To taste: Adds a hint of heat.
  • Lemon Juice – 2 tablespoons: Brightens up the dish and adds freshness.

For the Herb and Olive Mixture:

  • Mixed Chopped Fresh Herbs – 1 cup: Dill, basil, or thyme work well, adding freshness and a burst of flavor.
  • Sliced Pepperoncini – 2 tablespoons: Adds a tangy and mildly spicy kick.
  • Green Olives – 1 cup, torn: Provides a briny, savory contrast.
  • Sesame Seeds – 2 tablespoons: Adds a nutty flavor and a bit of crunch.

For the Feta Sauce:

  • Tzatziki Sauce – 1 cup: A creamy cucumber-yogurt sauce that adds a refreshing tang.
  • Feta Cheese – 6 ounces (170 grams), crumbled: Adds a rich, tangy flavor to the sauce.

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Prepare the Potatoes:

  • On a large baking sheet, toss the halved baby potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Spread them out in a single layer.

3. Marinate the Chicken:

  • In a mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the chicken breasts or thighs, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, chopped oregano, paprika, garlic, shallot, salt, pepper, and chili flakes.
  • Toss the chicken to coat it evenly with the marinade.

4. Roast the Chicken and Potatoes:

  • Nestle the marinated chicken around the potatoes on the baking sheet.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are crispy and tender. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).

5. Prepare the Herb and Olive Mixture:

  • While the chicken and potatoes are baking, in a bowl, combine the remaining 1/3 cup of olive oil, lemon juice, chopped fresh herbs, sliced pepperoncini, torn green olives, and sesame seeds. Mix well.

6. Make the Feta Sauce:

  • In a separate bowl, mix together the Tzatziki sauce and crumbled feta cheese until well combined.

7. Finish and Serve:

  • Once the chicken and potatoes are done baking, remove them from the oven.
  • Spoon the herbed olive mixture over the chicken and potatoes.
  • Serve the chicken and potatoes with the Tzatziki feta sauce on the side.

Cooking Tips

  1. Even Cooking: Ensure the chicken and potatoes are spaced evenly on the baking sheet to promote even roasting. If they are too crowded, they may steam rather than roast.
  2. Marinating Time: If possible, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before baking to enhance the flavors. For best results, marinate overnight in the refrigerator.
  3. Crispy Potatoes: If you prefer extra crispy potatoes, make sure they are in a single layer and not overcrowded on the baking sheet. You can also toss them halfway through baking for even crispness.
  4. Adjusting Heat: If you like a spicier dish, add more chili flakes to the marinade or the herb mixture.

Substitutes

  • Chicken: You can use bone-in, skin-on chicken for a richer flavor, but adjust the cooking time as needed.
  • Tzatziki Sauce: If you don’t have Tzatziki sauce, you can use Greek yogurt mixed with lemon juice and chopped cucumber as an alternative.
  • Olives: Substitute green olives with Kalamata olives or any other preferred type of olives.

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