Crispy chicken thighs with golden potatoes, all in one pan!
This one-pan lemon garlic chicken with baby potatoes is the ultimate comfort food. Crispy, juicy chicken thighs and golden potatoes, all infused with bright lemon and garlic. Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor, ready in 40 minutes.
Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed Sunday dinners, this dish is a viral classic for good reason. The combination of tangy lemon, aromatic garlic, and crispy potatoes creates a flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
With just one pan to clean, this recipe is ideal for families or anyone craving hearty, satisfying food without the hassle. The golden baby potatoes add a delightful crunch, while the chicken thighs remain juicy and flavorful.
Whether you’re serving it with a simple green salad or enjoying it as a standalone meal, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Why This Recipe Works
⏰ Minimal Effort
One pan, one dish, zero stress. No need for multiple pans or complicated steps.
💰 Budget-Friendly
Affordable ingredients that deliver restaurant-quality flavor.
👥 Family-Friendly
Everyone from kids to grandparents will love this crispy, juicy dish.
🌟 Flavor Explosion
Lemon and garlic infuse every bite with bright, bold flavor.
One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken & Potatoes
Crispy comfort food with minimal cleanup
🛒 Ingredients
- - 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- - 2 lbs baby potatoes, quartered
- - 3 cloves garlic, minced
- - Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- - 2 tbsp olive oil
- - 1 tsp dried oregano
- - 1 tsp salt
- - ½ tsp black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
Prep the Pan: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
💡 Use parchment for easy cleanup.
Season the Chicken: Rub chicken thighs with 1 tbsp olive oil, ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp pepper, and ½ tsp oregano. Place skin-side up on the pan.
💡 Pat skin dry for crispier results.
Prepare the Potatoes: Toss baby potatoes with 1 tbsp olive oil, remaining salt, pepper, and oregano. Spread around chicken.
💡 Use baby potatoes for even cooking.
Add Garlic & Lemon: Sprinkle minced garlic over chicken and potatoes. Add lemon zest and juice.
💡 Fresh lemon juice is key for brightness.
Roast: Bake for 25-30 minutes until chicken is golden and potatoes are crispy.
💡 Check internal temp: 165°F (74°C) for chicken.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes
Their small size ensures even cooking and crispy texture.
Substitute: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes.
Olive Oil
Provides rich flavor and helps brown the chicken and potatoes.
Substitute: Avocado oil or vegetable oil.
Lemon
Adds brightness and balances the richness of the dish.
Substitute: 2 tbsp lemon juice from a bottle.
Oregano
Enhances the Mediterranean flavor profile.
Substitute: Thyme or rosemary for a different twist.
Pro Tips for Perfect One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken
🍋 Lemon Zest
Grate the zest before juicing for maximum flavor impact.
🔥 Crispy Potatoes
Pat potatoes dry before tossing with oil to avoid sogginess.
⏰ Timing
Start checking chicken at 25 minutes to avoid overcooking.
🧂 Seasoning
Adjust salt to taste after roasting – potatoes may absorb some seasoning.
Variations & Customizations
Herb Upgrade
Add fresh rosemary or thyme for extra aroma and flavor.
Vegetable Medley
Include zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots for added nutrition.
Spicy Kick
Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a fiery twist.
Cheesy Option
Top with crumbled feta or parmesan before serving.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Steamed asparagus with lemon butter
- Garlic herb flatbread
- Simple green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Sauvignon Blanc for a crisp contrast or a bold Cabernet Sauvignon to complement the richness.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prep chicken and potatoes up to 24 hours in advance. Store separately in airtight containers.
Refrigerator Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer Storage
Freeze cooked chicken and potatoes separately for up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge overnight.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Chicken is undercooked?
A: Return to oven for 5-10 minutes. Check internal temperature with a thermometer.
Q: Potatoes are soggy?
A: Dry potatoes thoroughly before roasting. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
Q: Can I use boneless chicken?
A: Yes, but reduce cook time by 5-7 minutes to prevent drying out.
Q: How to make it gluten-free?
A: Ensure parchment paper is gluten-free. Recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
This one-pan lemon garlic chicken with potatoes is a game-changer for home cooks. With minimal effort, you’ll create a dish that feels restaurant-quality. The crispy chicken and golden potatoes are impossible to resist, and the vibrant lemon-garlic flavor elevates the whole meal.
Whether you’re feeding your family on a weeknight or hosting a weekend dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t forget to pair it with a fresh salad and your favorite wine for a complete meal. Give it a try—you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation in no time!
