Sheet Pan Roasted Chicken Thighs with Brussels Sprouts: A Simple Weeknight Dinner

Sheet pan roasted chicken thighs with Brussels sprouts is a true weeknight hero, offering a delicious and easy meal that’s ready in under an hour. The simplicity of this dish lies in its one-pan cooking, requiring minimal effort and cleanup.

Imagine the satisfying aroma of crispy chicken skin and tender Brussels sprouts filling your kitchen, all while you relax and enjoy the evening. This recipe is a winner for busy weeknights, impressing your family and friends with its flavorful simplicity.

This method of cooking harnesses the power of the oven to create a symphony of flavors. The chicken thighs, with their rich and juicy texture, become delightfully crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside. The Brussels sprouts, roasted to perfection, develop a sweet caramelization and a satisfyingly nutty flavor.

Cooking Steps

Roasting chicken thighs and Brussels sprouts on a sheet pan is a simple and flavorful way to prepare a satisfying meal. This method allows the ingredients to cook evenly, resulting in crispy Brussels sprouts and juicy, tender chicken thighs. The key to achieving the perfect roast is to preheat the oven to the right temperature, season the ingredients generously, and cook them until they reach the desired doneness.

Preparing the Ingredients

Before starting to roast, gather the ingredients and prepare them according to the recipe. This includes washing, trimming, and seasoning the chicken thighs and Brussels sprouts.

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season them generously with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. For example, paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder can be added to enhance the flavor profile.
• Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half or quarters, depending on their size. Smaller Brussels sprouts can be left whole.
• Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Other seasonings, such as lemon zest, garlic powder, or smoked paprika, can be added for additional flavor.

Roasting the Chicken Thighs and Brussels Sprouts

Once the ingredients are prepped, they can be arranged on a baking sheet and roasted in the preheated oven.

• Spread the seasoned chicken thighs and Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
• Roast the chicken thighs and Brussels sprouts for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken thighs are cooked through and the Brussels sprouts are tender and slightly caramelized. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

• During the last 5-10 minutes of cooking, you can toss the Brussels sprouts and chicken thighs to ensure even browning. This will also help to create a crispy texture on the Brussels sprouts.

Tips and Tricks, Sheet pan roasted chicken thighs with brussels sprouts

For optimal results, consider these tips and tricks:

• To ensure even cooking, it’s important to arrange the chicken thighs and Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the sheet pan, as this can lead to uneven cooking and steaming instead of roasting.

• To prevent the chicken thighs from drying out, you can add a tablespoon or two of water to the baking sheet before roasting. This will create a moist environment that helps keep the chicken juicy.
• For a more flavorful roast, consider adding other vegetables to the baking sheet, such as carrots, potatoes, or onions. These vegetables will roast alongside the chicken and Brussels sprouts, absorbing their flavors and creating a delicious medley.
• If you prefer a crispier texture on the Brussels sprouts, you can broil them for a few minutes at the end of the roasting time. This will help to caramelize the outer layer of the Brussels sprouts and create a crispy finish.

Variations and Substitutions: Sheet Pan Roasted Chicken Thighs With Brussels Sprouts

This recipe is incredibly versatile and allows for plenty of customization to suit your preferences. You can easily add different flavors and ingredients to make it your own. Additionally, there are plenty of options for those with dietary restrictions or preferences.

Flavor Variations

This section explores various ways to add flavor and variety to the dish.

• Spice it up:Add a kick to your chicken thighs by using a blend of spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, chili powder, or cumin. For a milder heat, use a pinch of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
• Citrus Burst:Incorporate the zest and juice of lemons, limes, or oranges for a bright and tangy flavor. You can also add a few sprigs of rosemary or thyme for an extra aromatic touch.
• Herbed Delight:Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, sage, oregano, or parsley. You can use them whole, chopped, or even create a simple herb paste for an extra burst of flavor.
• Sweet and Savory:Balance the savory flavors with a touch of sweetness by adding a drizzle of honey or maple syrup before roasting.
• Garlic and Onion:Enhance the dish with the addition of minced garlic or chopped onions. You can also add a few slices of lemon for a touch of acidity and visual appeal.

Ingredient Substitutions

This section explores alternative ingredients for those with dietary restrictions or preferences.

• Chicken Alternatives:If you prefer, you can substitute chicken thighs with other proteins like bone-in chicken breasts, pork chops, or even firm tofu.
• Brussels Sprouts Alternatives:Other vegetables can be substituted for Brussels sprouts, such as broccoli florets, potatoes, carrots, or sweet potatoes.
• Gluten-Free Options:If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for the marinade.

Table of Variations

Here’s a table summarizing various flavor variations and their corresponding ingredients.

Sheet pan roasted chicken thighs with brussels sprouts are a weeknight staple in our house – easy, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. Speaking of crowd-pleasers, have you seen those amazing best gender reveal cupcakes ever ? They’re seriously next-level! But back to the chicken – I love how the crispy skin on the thighs complements the roasted brussels sprouts.

It’s a perfect combination of textures and flavors.

Sheet pan roasted chicken thighs with brussels sprouts are a simple and satisfying weeknight meal, especially when paired with a vibrant salad. I love to serve it alongside a blue cheese and dried cranberry tossed salad for a touch of tangy sweetness.

The creamy blue cheese and crunchy cranberries complement the savory chicken and roasted brussels sprouts perfectly, creating a balanced and delicious meal.

Sheet pan roasted chicken thighs with Brussels sprouts are a staple in my weeknight rotation, and I love how easy it is to toss everything together and let the oven do its magic. I often roast a winter squash alongside, and I’m always reminded to save the seeds! They make a fantastic crunchy snack when tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper and roasted until golden brown.

You can find a great recipe for roasted winter squash seeds on Cerita Kuliner, which is a great resource for all things delicious. Back to the chicken, I usually serve it with a side of rice or quinoa for a complete and satisfying meal.