Succulent roasted chicken thighs and drumsticks, coated in a rich garlic herb marinade, baked to golden perfection with crispy baby potatoes soaking up all the savory juices. A one-pan rustic comfort dish that’s simple, hearty, and deeply flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Garlic Herb Roasted Chicken with Baby Potatoes is a complete meal made effortlessly in a single pan. The chicken is juicy and flavorful thanks to a fragrant blend of garlic, lemon, and herbs, while the baby potatoes absorb all the drippings, becoming irresistibly crispy on the outside and soft inside. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner or weekend family favorite that requires minimal prep and delivers maximum satisfaction.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
4 chicken drumsticks
1.5 lbs baby potatoes, halved
4 tablespoons olive oil
6 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon dried thyme
Juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, paprika, oregano, thyme, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and chili flakes.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and massage the marinade into the skin. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
4. Toss the halved baby potatoes in the same bowl to coat with the remaining marinade.
5. Arrange the chicken and potatoes in a large roasting pan or baking sheet in a single layer, skin side up.
6. Roast for 45–50 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temp of 165°F/74°C) and the potatoes are golden and tender.
7. Broil for 3–5 minutes at the end for extra crispiness, if desired.
8. Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Boneless Option: Use boneless thighs or breasts for quicker cooking, though skin-on cuts offer more flavor.
• Vegetable Swap: Replace baby potatoes with carrots, sweet potatoes, or parsnips.
• Herb Customization: Substitute rosemary or Italian seasoning for a different herbal profile.
• Spicy Twist: Add more chili flakes or a dash of cayenne for extra heat.
• Citrus Flavor: Add lemon zest along with the juice for a brighter flavor punch.

storage/reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use a microwave, but the skin will lose crispiness. For best results, avoid freezing, as potatoes may become mealy when thawed.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the chicken.

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, boneless cuts will cook faster. Just reduce the baking time by about 10–15 minutes and monitor doneness closely.

Can I marinate the chicken in advance?

Absolutely. You can marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor. Just store it covered in the fridge.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with a green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread to mop up the pan juices.

Can I use different herbs?

Yes, fresh herbs like rosemary, sage, or basil can be used in place of dried herbs to suit your taste.

How do I make it less spicy?

Simply omit the chili flakes or reduce the amount to keep it mild.

Can I cook this in a cast iron skillet?

Yes, a large cast iron skillet works great and helps achieve crispier skin on the chicken.

What type of potatoes work best?

Baby potatoes are ideal, but fingerlings or small Yukon golds also work well when halved.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs and drumsticks?

Yes, but breasts tend to dry out faster, so monitor the cooking time carefully and baste during roasting.

Is it necessary to broil at the end?

Broiling is optional, but it enhances crispiness and adds a nice golden finish to both the chicken and potatoes.

Conclusion

Garlic Herb Roasted Chicken with Baby Potatoes is the kind of meal that brings warmth and comfort to the table with minimal effort. Its robust flavor, crispy textures, and one-pan convenience make it a reliable choice for both busy weeknights and leisurely family dinners. With endless variations and simple storage, this dish is a timeless staple for every home cook.

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