Sheet Pan Lemon Balsamic Chicken and Potatoes Recipe

Sizzling Sheet Pan Lemon Balsamic Chicken and Potatoes Recipe

Weeknight dinners demand simplicity and bold flavors that make everyone’s taste buds dance with excitement.

This sheet pan lemon balsamic chicken and potatoes recipe delivers a mouthwatering meal that comes together with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.

Zesty lemon and tangy balsamic vinegar create a vibrant marinade that infuses each tender chicken piece and golden potato chunk with incredible depth.

The magic happens when these ingredients roast together, caramelizing edges and concentrating flavors in one convenient pan.

Crispy skin, perfectly seasoned potatoes, and a harmonious blend of herbs transform an ordinary dinner into something extraordinary.

Clean-up is a breeze, leaving you more time to savor every delicious bite.

Serve this crowd-pleasing dish and watch as everyone asks for seconds.

Pro Tips for Lemon Balsamic Chicken

  • Cut potatoes into uniform, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and crispy edges.
  • Let chicken sit in the balsamic mixture for 15-30 minutes before baking to enhance taste and tenderness.
  • Use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature for safe consumption.
  • Chop fresh herbs finely and adjust quantities to personal taste preferences for a personalized touch.
  • Use high-quality olive oil and measure carefully to prevent greasy or dry results.

Chicken Potato Variations to Try

  • Herb-Crusted Mediterranean Chicken: Replace paprika with dried thyme and rosemary for an aromatic Mediterranean flavor profile.
  • Spicy Harissa Chicken Variation: Swap Dijon mustard with harissa paste and add cumin for a North African-inspired spicy kick.
  • Vegetarian Sheet Pan Feast: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas, keeping the same marinade and roasting technique for a plant-based alternative.
  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Option: Replace potatoes with roasted cauliflower florets to create a lower-carbohydrate version while maintaining the same zesty seasoning blend.

Serving Lemon Balsamic Chicken Potatoes

  • Mediterranean Platter Paradise: Arrange the chicken and potatoes on a large wooden board with tzatziki, feta, and herby olive mix for a stunning family-style presentation.
  • Fresh Herb Sprinkle: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, dill, or oregano right before serving to add bright color and extra flavor burst.
  • Side Salad Companion: Pair with a crisp Greek salad featuring cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion to complement the sheet pan's robust Mediterranean flavors.
  • Wine and Dine: Serve with a chilled white wine like Assyrtiko or Sauvignon Blanc to enhance the lemon and balsamic notes of the dish.

Storing Lemon Balsamic Chicken Potatoes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping chicken and potatoes separate for optimal freshness. Consume within 3-4 days.
  • Wrap individual portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty aluminum foil. Chicken and potatoes can be frozen up to 3 months. Label with date.
  • Preheat to 350°F, place chicken and potatoes on baking sheet, cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  • Place portions on microwave-safe plate, cover with damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly. Add splash of water to maintain moisture.

FAQs

  • What makes the balsamic vinegar important in this recipe?

Balsamic vinegar adds a tangy, sweet depth of flavor to the chicken, helping to tenderize the meat and create a rich, complex taste profile.

  • Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?

Yes, you can substitute dried herbs, but use about 1/3 of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor compared to fresh herbs.

  • Is this recipe considered a healthy meal option?

Absolutely! The dish is packed with lean protein from chicken, complex carbohydrates from potatoes, and includes healthy fats from olive oil and herbs, making it a balanced and nutritious meal.

Lemon Balsamic Chicken Potato Standouts

  • Quick Weeknight Winner: Minimal prep and one-pan cooking make this chicken dinner a total game-changer for busy households.
  • Flavor Explosion Guaranteed: Balsamic vinegar, Dijon, oregano, and chili flakes create a mouthwatering blend that transforms ordinary chicken into something spectacular.
  • Mediterranean Comfort Delight: The herby olive topping and feta tzatziki bring fresh, tangy Mediterranean vibes that elevate this simple sheet pan meal from basic to gourmet.
  • Customizable Kitchen Magic: Easily swap ingredients or adjust spice levels to match your family's taste preferences, making this recipe adaptable for everyone's palate.

Lemon Balsamic Chicken Potato List

Main Proteins:
  • Chicken: Lean protein that forms the heart of this sheet pan meal and absorbs the flavorful marinade.
Vegetable Base:
  • Potatoes: Hearty root vegetable that serves as a complementary side and becomes crispy when roasted.
Marinade and Seasoning Group:
  • Olive Oil: Rich cooking oil that helps distribute flavors and promotes even roasting.
  • Balsamic Vinegar: Tangy liquid that adds depth and complexity to the chicken's flavor profile.
  • Dijon Mustard: Zesty condiment that provides a subtle sharp taste and helps bind the marinade.
  • Oregano, Paprika: Aromatic herbs and spices that enhance the overall seasoning of the dish.
  • Garlic, Shallot: Pungent aromatics that add robust flavor to the chicken.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and elevate the taste of the ingredients.
  • Chili Flakes: Spicy element that introduces a mild heat to the recipe.
Garnish and Finishing Group:
  • Lemon Juice: Bright, acidic liquid that adds freshness to the final dish.
  • Herbs: Fresh green seasonings that provide a light, aromatic touch.
  • Pepperoncini, Olives: Tangy and briny ingredients that contribute extra flavor complexity.
  • Sesame Seeds: Nutty topping that adds texture and visual interest.
  • Tzatziki: Creamy Greek yogurt-based sauce that offers a cool, refreshing counterpoint.
  • Feta Cheese: Salty, crumbly cheese that provides a rich, tangy finish.

Lemon Balsamic Chicken Potato Steps

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Set your oven to a toasty 425° F.

This high temperature will help create a crispy and golden exterior on your chicken and potatoes.

Step 2: Prepare Potato Base

Spread potatoes on a sheet pan and drizzle with olive oil.

Sprinkle with salt and black pepper.

Toss until each potato piece is evenly coated and seasoned.

Step 3: Marinate Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine:
  • Olive oil
  • Chicken pieces
  • Balsamic vinegar
  • Dijon mustard
  • Oregano
  • Paprika
  • Minced garlic
  • Chopped shallot
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Chili flakes

Toss until chicken is thoroughly coated with the flavorful marinade.

Step 4: Arrange and Bake

Nestle marinated chicken pieces around the seasoned potatoes on the sheet pan.

Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and potatoes are golden brown.

Step 5: Create Herby Olive Topping

Whisk together:
  • Olive oil
  • Lemon juice
  • Fresh herbs
  • Pepperoncini
  • Chopped olives
  • Sesame seeds

Step 6: Prepare Tzatziki

Mix tzatziki with crumbled feta cheese.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove sheet pan from oven.

Spoon herby olive mixture over chicken.

Serve with feta tzatziki on the side.

Bon appétit!

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Sheet Pan Lemon Balsamic Chicken and Potatoes Recipe

Sheet Pan Lemon Balsamic Chicken and Potatoes Recipe


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4.7 from 36 reviews

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Zesty sheet pan lemon balsamic chicken and potatoes bring Mediterranean flavors straight to dinner tables with minimal cleanup. Herbal notes and tangy citrus dance alongside crispy roasted potatoes, creating a simple yet sophisticated meal perfect for weeknight gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Proteins:

  • 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 6 ounces (170 grams) feta cheese (crumbled)

Vegetables and Herbs:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) baby potatoes, halved
  • 6 garlic cloves, chopped
  • 1 shallot, chopped
  • 1 cup mixed chopped fresh herbs: dill, basil, or thyme
  • 2 tablespoons sliced pepperoncini
  • 1 cup green olives, torn

Seasonings and Liquids:

  • 4 tablespoons plus 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chopped oregano
  • 2 teaspoons smoked or regular paprika
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Chili flakes
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
  • 1 cup Tzatziki

Instructions

  1. Heat the oven to 425°F and prepare a large sheet pan for roasting.
  2. Coat potato chunks with olive oil, then generously season with salt and pepper, spreading them evenly across the pan.
  3. Create a zesty marinade by whisking olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, paprika, minced garlic, diced shallot, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes in a mixing bowl.
  4. Thoroughly coat the chicken pieces in the prepared marinade, ensuring complete coverage.
  5. Arrange marinated chicken around the seasoned potatoes on the sheet pan, maintaining a single layer for even cooking.
  6. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and potatoes are golden and crisp.
  7. While chicken roasts, prepare a vibrant herb topping by combining olive oil, fresh lemon juice, chopped herbs, sliced pepperoncini, kalamata olives, and toasted sesame seeds.
  8. Whisk together tzatziki sauce and crumble feta cheese for a creamy accompaniment.
  9. Remove sheet pan from oven and immediately drizzle with herbed olive mixture.
  10. Serve hot, accompanied by the tzatziki and feta sauce for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Notes

  • Optimize potato crispiness by cutting them into uniform 1-inch cubes for even roasting and golden edges.
  • Marinate chicken for deeper flavor by letting it sit in the balsamic mixture for 30 minutes before baking to enhance taste and tenderness.
  • Choose bone-in chicken thighs for juicier results, as they remain more moist during high-heat roasting compared to chicken breasts.
  • use gluten-free Dijon mustard for gluten-sensitive individuals and replace feta with dairy-free alternatives for vegan versions.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 511 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 580 mg
  • Fat: 37 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 28 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 14 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg
Natalie Brooks

Natalie Brooks

Co-Founder & Content Strategist

Expertise

  • Vegan and plant-based recipe creation
  • Meal planning and nutritional analysis
  • Storytelling through blog content, video, and social media

Education

eCornell

  • Program: Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate
  • Focus: Whole-food, plant-based cooking, with a foundation in nutritional science and sustainable eating habits.

Natalie brings the vibrant, plant-powered side to Culinary Duo. After earning her Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate from eCornell, she combined her love for fresh ingredients with a passion for storytelling, aiming to make healthy cooking simple and satisfying.
Her kitchen motto: good food doesn’t need a fancy label, it just needs fresh ideas and a little creativity. Outside of writing and recipe testing, Natalie’s happiest in her garden, exploring farmers’ markets, or mixing global flavors into new kitchen experiments.

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