Name: Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 16 ounces boneless chicken breasts (sliced in half); 4 tablespoons olive oil (divided); 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 4 cloves garlic (crushed and divided); 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice; 2 teaspoons kosher salt (divided); ½ teaspoon black pepper; 5 medium Yukon Gold potatoes (diced); 1 medium sweet potato (diced); 1 medium sweet onion (sliced)

Imagine a weeknight dinner that requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor. Enter Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken, a dish that brings together juicy chicken breasts, perfectly roasted potatoes, and sweet onions, all harmonized with the smoky warmth of paprika. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also makes cleanup a breeze—perfect for those busy evenings when you want a home-cooked meal without the hassle.

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly forgiving; whether you’re an experienced cook or a kitchen novice, this dish is easy to master. The combination of ingredients is designed to complement one another, ensuring that every bite is flavorful. Furthermore, using a sheet pan means everything cooks evenly together, allowing the chicken to soak up the fantastic flavors from the vegetables and spices.

What We’re Using

To create this delicious Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken, we’ll need the following ingredients:

16 ounces boneless chicken breasts, sliced in half – This allows for quicker cooking and more surface area for flavor.
4 tablespoons olive oil, divided – A healthy fat that helps in cooking and adds richness.
1 tablespoon smoked paprika – The star of the dish, bringing a unique smoky flavor.
4 cloves garlic, crushed and divided – For aromatic depth and a touch of sweetness.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – Adds a tangy kick that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice – Brightens the dish and balances the richness.
2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided – Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
½ teaspoon black pepper – For a mild kick of heat.
5 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, diced – Creamy and buttery, these potatoes roast to perfection.
1 medium sweet potato, diced – Adds a hint of sweetness and vibrant color.
1 medium sweet onion, sliced – Sweet and caramelized, a perfect complement to the chicken.

Cook’s Kit

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the following tools to make your life easier:

Sheet pan – A large, sturdy pan is essential for even cooking.
Mixing bowl – For combining the marinade ingredients.
Knife and cutting board – To chop the vegetables and chicken.
Measuring spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
Spatula or tongs – For flipping and serving the chicken and vegetables.

Mastering Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken: How-To

Now that we have our ingredients and tools ready, let’s get cooking!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of olive oil, smoked paprika, 2 crushed cloves of garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are combined into a smooth marinade.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Add the sliced chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes. If you have more time, marinating for up to an hour will enhance the flavor even further.

Step 4: Prepare the Vegetables

While the chicken is marinating, prepare your vegetables. Dice the Yukon Gold potatoes, sweet potato, and slice the sweet onion. In a separate bowl, toss the diced potatoes and onions with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, the remaining 2 crushed cloves of garlic, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt.

Step 5: Assemble on the Sheet Pan

Spread the seasoned vegetables evenly on one side of the sheet pan. On the other side, place the marinated chicken breasts. Ensure there is space between the chicken and vegetables for even cooking.

Step 6: Bake

Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the vegetables are tender and caramelized.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the sheet pan from the oven. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the chicken with the roasted vegetables, and enjoy your flavorful Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken!

Holiday & Seasonal Touches

This Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken recipe is versatile enough to be adapted for various occasions. Consider these seasonal touches:

In fall, add diced apples or cranberries for a festive twist.
For summer, include seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
During winter holidays, sprinkle with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme before roasting.
For a special occasion, serve with a side of creamy garlic mashed potatoes.

Behind the Recipe

The inspiration for Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken comes from the desire to create a comforting meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. The use of smoked paprika adds a unique flavor profile, elevating the humble chicken and potatoes into something truly special. By roasting everything together, you allow the flavors to meld, creating a harmonious dish that’s sure to please anyone at the dinner table.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

If you find yourself with leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), here’s how to store and reheat your Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken:

Store: Place the cooled chicken and vegetables in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the chicken and vegetables in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat: To reheat, place the chicken and vegetables on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.

Common Qs About Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but be aware that it may require a longer cooking time. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

What can I substitute for smoked paprika?

If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can use regular paprika, though it won’t have the same smoky flavor. Adding a pinch of cayenne can help if you want a bit of heat.

Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers, carrots, or Brussels sprouts. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as some vegetables may need longer to roast.

Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?

This Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that any additional ingredients you use are also gluten-free.

Hungry for More?

If you enjoyed this Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken, you’ll love exploring more one-pan meals that make dinner a breeze. From savory stir-fries to hearty casseroles, the possibilities are endless. Don’t forget to check out other recipes that celebrate the flavors of seasonal vegetables and spices, offering variety and excitement to your weeknight dinners.

Every bite of this dish is a reminder that cooking can be both easy and delicious. Enjoy your culinary adventure with Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and share your creations with friends and family—they’ll be asking for seconds!