One Pan Lemon Chicken And Potatoes

Name: One Pan Lemon Chicken And Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 1 pound baby potatoes, halved; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Smart Quick Meals Favorites

I absolutely adore simple yet flavorful meals, and One Pan Lemon Chicken And Potatoes is my go-to dish when I want something that impresses without the fuss. The bright acidity of the lemon perfectly complements the succulent chicken and golden potatoes, creating a delicious harmony of flavors. Plus, the fact that everything cooks together in one pan means minimal cleanup, which is always a win in my book! Trust me, this dish will become an instant favorite at your dinner table.

Created by

Isobel Fairfax

Last updated on 2026-02-15T06:01:35.713Z

When I first experimented with One Pan Lemon Chicken And Potatoes, I was amazed at how seamlessly the ingredients worked together. I chose organic chicken thighs for their rich flavor and tenderness, letting the lemon zest and juice infuse the meat as it cooked. This method not only enhances the taste but also keeps the chicken juicy.

Through trial and error, I learned the importance of arranging the potatoes around the chicken so they absorb all the savory juices. This way, every element on the plate is filled with flavor, making for a truly satisfying meal that comes together effortlessly.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and tangy notes from fresh lemon juice
Juicy, tender chicken infused with herbal flavors
Hearty potatoes that soak up all the delicious pan drippings

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of chicken thighs in this recipe is intentional. Their higher fat content compared to chicken breasts provides richer flavor and helps keep the meat juicy during baking. Opting for bone-in, skin-on varieties further enhances the dish, as the bone adds depth to the flavor and the skin crisps up beautifully, creating a delightful contrast with the tender potatoes.

When it comes to seasoning, the combination of lemon, garlic, and oregano creates a vibrant and fragrant base. Fresh garlic adds pungency, while the lemon juice brightens the dish. If you want to tailor the flavor profile, consider substituting oregano with thyme or rosemary, which will impart a similar herbal quality, though with unique notes.

Baking Technique Tips

Preheating the oven is crucial for achieving those golden, crispy edges on the chicken skin. Make sure your oven is fully heated before placing the pan inside. As the chicken bakes, it will release natural juices that combine with the lemon and garlic, creating a delicious sauce that coats the potatoes. If you like a bit more color, you can broil the dish for the last 2–3 minutes of cooking, but watch it closely to avoid burning.

While a large oven-safe skillet is ideal for this recipe, you can also use a baking dish if that's what you have on hand. Just ensure that the chicken and potatoes are arranged in a single layer to allow even cooking. Stirring the potatoes halfway through the baking time can also help them absorb more flavor and ensures they cook uniformly.

Ingredients

Start by gathering the following ingredients for this simple yet flavorful dish.

Ingredients

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 pound baby potatoes, halved
1 lemon, zested and juiced
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

With these ingredients on hand, you're ready to create a delightful one-pan meal!

Instructions

Let's dive into the easy steps to make this delicious dish.

Prepare the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine chicken thighs, halved potatoes, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat.

Arrange in the Pan

Transfer the chicken and potatoes to a large oven-safe skillet in a single layer. Ensure the chicken is skin side up for a crispy finish.

Bake the Dish

Bake in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the potatoes are tender.

Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your flavorful creation!

Follow these steps, and you're sure to impress at your next meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra zing, try squeezing additional lemon juice over the dish just before serving. It adds a bright finish that enhances the flavors.

Make-Ahead and Storage

For busy weeknights, you can marinate the chicken and potatoes in the lemon-garlic mixture a few hours ahead or even the night before. Store them covered in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify. When you're ready to cook, simply transfer everything to your skillet and proceed with the baking step. This not only saves time, but it also enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to freeze any extras, ensure they are completely cooled before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. You can freeze the dish for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

This One Pan Lemon Chicken and Potatoes pairs wonderfully with a light salad or steamed green vegetables like asparagus or broccoli to add a fresh crunch to your meal. A dollop of tzatziki or a simple yogurt sauce can also complement this dish nicely, contrasting the savory flavors with a creamy, refreshing touch.

If you want to expand this dish into a full dinner, serve it alongside a grain, such as quinoa or couscous, which can soak up the delicious juices from the chicken and potatoes. Feel free to sprinkle some feta cheese over the dish before serving for a touch of saltiness and creaminess that enhances the overall flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may dry out faster. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish is hearty enough on its own, but you can serve it with a green salad or steamed vegetables for added freshness.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken and potatoes ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge and bake them when ready to eat.

→ What alternative vegetables can I add?

You can add carrots, bell peppers, or green beans for a more colorful and nutritious meal.