Sheet Pan Chicken With Sweet Potatoes

Name: Sheet Pan Chicken With Sweet Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Freshly Wholesome

I love making Sheet Pan Chicken With Sweet Potatoes because it delivers incredible flavor with minimal cleanup. This dish has become a weeknight favorite for my family and me, as it's both delicious and simple to prepare. The combination of tender chicken, sweet potatoes, and aromatic spices creates a satisfying meal that we can all enjoy together. I appreciate how the timing of cooking everything on one pan ensures that the chicken stays juicy while the sweet potatoes caramelize beautifully. It’s a dinner option that makes my life easier and keeps everyone happy at the table.

Created by

Lacey Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-02-08T03:57:35.976Z

When I first attempted sheet pan cooking, I was amazed at how simple yet flavorful the results could be. I experimented with different spices, but the mix of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and thyme made this dish truly shine. The endeavor taught me that timing in cooking is crucial; by placing the sweet potatoes on the pan before the chicken, I ensured that both were perfectly cooked.

Another tip I discovered is to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This step allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender meat that really elevates the dish. Trust me, this meal is a game-changer for busy weeknights!

        Why You’ll Love This Recipe
        One-pan convenience for easy cleanup
Perfectly spiced chicken with caramelized sweet potatoes
Healthy and satisfying meal for any night of the week

      

Cooking the Chicken to Perfection

Getting the chicken thighs just right is key to ensuring they come out juicy and full of flavor. Start by using bone-in, skin-on thighs; the skin helps retain moisture while cooking, creating a crispy outer layer. When rubbing the spice mix, ensure you massage it under the skin as well, which allows the flavors to penetrate deeply and makes each bite irresistible.

Once your chicken is seasoned, let it sit for about 15 minutes at room temperature before placing it in the oven. This brief rest allows the spices to meld and enhances the final flavor. Additionally, using an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness is crucial; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for the best results.

Perfecting the Sweet Potatoes

When preparing the sweet potatoes, cutting them into uniform cubes—about 1-inch pieces—ensures that they cook evenly. This consistency helps them achieve that delightful caramelization, enhancing their natural sweetness. Tossing them with cinnamon in addition to salt and pepper adds a warm, comforting flavor, making them the perfect complement to the savory chicken.

If you're looking to amp up the flavor profile, consider adding a pinch of cayenne or nutmeg to the sweet potato mix. This gives an unexpected depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon. For an even quicker prep, you can use pre-peeled sweet potatoes, available in many grocery stores, to save time without compromising on quality.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sweet Potatoes

2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken thighs.

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

In another bowl, toss the cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, cinnamon, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Arrange on the Baking Sheet

Place the seasoned sweet potatoes on one side of a large baking sheet and the chicken thighs on the other side.

Bake the Dish

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious sheet pan meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the spice mixture for a few hours before cooking. You can also add your favorite vegetables to the sheet pan, like bell peppers or Brussels sprouts, for more variety.

Storage and Reheating

After enjoying your Sheet Pan Chicken with Sweet Potatoes, you might want to save leftovers for a quick meal. To store, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For a longer shelf life, consider freezing the components separately, as the chicken can maintain its moisture better this way.

When reheating, place the chicken and sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. This method not only preserves the texture of the chicken but also revitalizes the sweet potatoes, keeping them deliciously caramelized.

Serving Suggestions

This dish stands beautifully on its own but pairing it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables can elevate the meal further. A light vinaigrette over mixed greens adds a fresh contrast to the richness of the chicken and sweet potatoes. Alternatively, consider serving it with quinoa or couscous for a heartier option, which also absorbs the flavorful juices from the chicken.

For additional flair, a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro just before serving can brighten the dish, adding both color and a fresh burst of flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, a drizzle of balsamic reduction over the finished plate can introduce a delightful tanginess that beautifully complements the sweetness of the potatoes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time as chicken breasts may require less time to cook.

→ What can I substitute for sweet potatoes?

You can use butternut squash or regular potatoes as alternatives.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prep the chicken and sweet potatoes several hours ahead, just store them in the fridge until you're ready to bake.

→ Is it possible to make this dish healthier?

Yes, you can reduce the amount of oil used or choose skinless chicken for a lighter meal.