Name: Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs Asparagus
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 8 large bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 1/2 cup fresh-squeezed lemon juice; 1/3 cup olive oil; 1 T Spike Seasoning; 1 tsp. Italian Seasoning; 1/2 tsp. Onion Powder; 1/2 tsp. Garlic Powder; 1 lb. asparagus spears; 1 lemon (for zesting); salt and fresh ground black pepper (to taste)

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When it comes to easy and flavorful meals, nothing beats Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs Asparagus. Just imagine coming home after a long day and being greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of roasted chicken and fresh asparagus. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen because it captures the essence of spring with its vibrant colors and bold flavors. The beauty of this recipe lies not just in the delightful combination of ingredients but also in the simplicity of its preparation. I love how everything cooks together on a single sheet pan, allowing the chicken to soak up the zesty marinade while the asparagus becomes perfectly tender. It’s a meal that brings warmth to the table and a smile to my family’s faces.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
400 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
30 g

Tools Used:
Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Whisk, Oven

What You’ll Enjoy About This Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs Asparagus

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the biggest reasons I adore Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs Asparagus is its effortless preparation. With minimal chopping and no complicated techniques, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. You can have everything prepped and in the oven in no time, making it a lifesaver for those hectic days when time is of the essence.

Flavorful Marinade

The marinade used for the chicken is simply divine. Combining olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and a blend of spices creates a vibrant flavor profile that elevates the dish. When the chicken thighs soak in this mixture, they become incredibly flavorful and juicy, ensuring that every bite is bursting with taste.

Healthy and Nutrient-Dense

This recipe is not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients. The inclusion of fresh asparagus adds fiber and vitamins to your meal, making it a healthy choice for dinner. It’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing flavor.

Minimal Clean-Up

Let’s face it, nobody enjoys doing dishes. With Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs Asparagus, you can enjoy a fantastic meal without the stress of extensive clean-up. Everything cooks on one sheet pan, so you’ll only have one dish to wash when you’re done. It’s a win-win!

Versatile for Any Occasion

This dish is suitable for various occasions, from family dinners to casual gatherings with friends. The bright and inviting flavors make it ideal for spring celebrations or even a cozy night in. And the best part? You can easily scale the recipe up or down depending on your needs.

Shopping List for Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs Asparagus

Using fresh, quality ingredients is crucial in creating the perfect Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs Asparagus. Each component plays a significant role in developing flavors that complement each other beautifully. You’ll find that the zesty lemon and hearty chicken perfectly balance the tender asparagus, making every bite a delightful experience.

8 large bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: These hearty pieces of chicken are juicy and flavorful, making them ideal for roasting.
1/2 cup fresh-squeezed lemon juice: Adds a bright, tangy flavor that enhances the chicken and vegetables.
1/3 cup olive oil: This healthy fat not only helps in marinating the chicken but also aids in roasting, giving a golden crust.
1 T Spike Seasoning: A unique blend of spices that brings depth to the dish.
1 tsp. Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs adds an aromatic touch to the chicken.
1/2 tsp. Onion Powder: Enhances the savory flavor of the chicken.
1/2 tsp. Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle hint of garlic that complements the overall dish.
1 lb. asparagus spears: Fresh asparagus adds a vibrant color and crunch to the meal.
1 lemon: For zesting, this adds an extra punch of citrus flavor.
Salt and fresh ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.

How to Prepare Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs Asparagus

Preparing Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs Asparagus is incredibly straightforward! With just a few simple steps, you’ll have this delicious meal ready to enjoy. Follow along as I guide you through the process for a delightful dining experience.

Start by trimming the excess skin and fat from your chicken thighs. If you prefer, you can use kitchen shears to make this process easier. Making small slits in the skin is optional but recommended for better seasoning absorption.
In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Spike Seasoning, Italian Seasoning, Onion Powder, and Garlic Powder. This marinade will infuse the chicken with flavor.
Place the trimmed chicken thighs in a Ziploc bag and pour about two-thirds of the marinade over them. Seal the bag and let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least two to three hours, or longer if you can.
When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 350F/176C, placing the sheet pan inside to heat up. Allow the chicken to drain in a colander until it reaches room temperature.
Once heated, carefully arrange the chicken thighs on the hot sheet pan, baking them for 25 minutes. This initial cooking time will ensure they start to build flavor.
While the chicken is in the oven, prepare your asparagus. Break one spear to find the woody part and trim all spears to that length. Cut each piece in half diagonally for a beautiful presentation.
Now, zest the lemon and whisk one tablespoon of the zest into the reserved marinade. This step adds an extra layer of citrus flavor.
After 25 minutes, remove the sheet pan from the oven and increase the temperature to 450F/232C. Check for liquid released from the chicken; if present, blot it away with a paper towel.
Tuck the asparagus pieces around the chicken, ensuring they lie in a single layer. Brush them with the remaining marinade for added flavor.
Return the sheet pan to the oven and bake for an additional 4 to 6 minutes, adjusting based on your preferred level of doneness for the asparagus.
Finally, switch the oven to broil and broil the dish for about 3 minutes. This will create a beautifully browned top on the chicken and a slight char on the asparagus. Don’t wander too far; keep an eye on it!
Season the finished dish with salt and fresh-ground black pepper to taste, and serve hot for an unforgettable meal.

Things Worth Knowing

Choose the Right Chicken: Selecting bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs is key for flavor and moisture. They remain juicy even when cooked to a higher temperature.
Don’t Skip the Marinade: Allowing the chicken to marinate for several hours enhances the flavor significantly. If time permits, marinate overnight for the best results.
Check Asparagus Freshness: Look for vibrant green spears with firm stalks. Avoid any that appear wilted or yellowing.
Broiling Technique: When broiling, stay vigilant. The high heat can quickly turn a perfect dish into a charred one if left unattended.

Recipe Tips about Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs Asparagus

Here are some tips to ensure your Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs Asparagus turns out perfectly every time. Following these suggestions will enhance your cooking experience and result in a dish that impresses your family and friends.

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Freezing: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and asparagus for up to 2 months. Just ensure they are cooled completely before placing them in freezer-safe bags.
Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or some crusty bread to soak up any delicious juices.
Make it Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with hearty vegetable options like portobello mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian meal.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to change up the herbs and spices in the marinade to suit your taste. Try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a different flavor profile.

Serve This Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs Asparagus With

Light Green Salad: A fresh mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken.
Rice or Quinoa: Fluffy rice or quinoa can absorb the flavorful juices from the sheet pan, providing a satisfying base.
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a comforting side that everyone will love.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, holiday meals, or even casual get-togethers with friends.
Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, ensuring they retain their flavor.
Seasonal Pairing: Enjoy this recipe in the spring when asparagus is at its peak season, providing the best flavor and texture.

FAQ

For the best flavor, marinate your chicken thighs in the refrigerator for at least two to three hours, if possible, overnight. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be. Use a resealable bag to ensure all parts of the chicken are well coated with the marinade.

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe. However, keep in mind that boneless thighs may cook faster, so check for doneness a few minutes earlier than the recipe suggests to ensure they don’t dry out.

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, steamed rice, or crusty bread. The flavorful juices from the chicken and asparagus can be soaked up with bread or served over a bed of rice for a satisfying meal.

To make Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs Asparagus healthier, consider using less olive oil in the marinade or substituting it with a low-calorie cooking spray. Additionally, you can add more vegetables to the sheet pan, such as bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini, to increase the nutritional value.

Conclusion

Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs Asparagus is a delightful recipe that showcases the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients. It’s perfect for any occasion, easy to prepare, and brings a burst of flavor to your table. I encourage you to try this dish for your next family dinner or gathering; it’s bound to impress everyone who tries it.