This Chicken, Apple, and Brussels Sprout Sheet Pan Dinner is a tasty and colorful meal. Juicy chicken, sweet apples, and crispy Brussels sprouts all roast together for a flavorful dish.
I love how easy this dinner is to make—you just throw everything on one pan! Plus, the mix of sweet and savory makes it a hit at the dinner table. Grab a fork and enjoy! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well too, but they might need less cooking time.
Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts are key for this dish. If they aren’t available, you can use other veggies like green beans, broccoli, or cauliflower as substitutes.
Apples: Gala and Honeycrisp apples are sweet and hold their shape well. If you want a tart taste, Granny Smith apples are a great option, adding a nice contrast to the dish.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil gives a rich flavor. You can substitute with vegetable oil, melted coconut oil, or avocado oil if preferred.
Thyme: Dried thyme is convenient and easy to find. If fresh thyme is available, definitely use it for a fresher taste! Alternatively, rosemary also pairs nicely.
How Do I Get Perfectly Roasted Brussels Sprouts?
To achieve those crispy, delicious Brussels sprouts, it’s all about the roasting technique. First, ensure they are halved and well-coated with oil and seasoning. Here’s how to do it:
- Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the sheet pan, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. This helps them cook evenly.
- Roast at 400°F (200°C) to caramelize their edges, giving them a wonderful flavor and crunch.
- Give them a stir halfway through cooking to ensure every sprout gets that lovely golden color.
Trust me; these tips will make your Brussels sprouts the star of the meal!
Chicken, Apple and Brussels Sprout Sheet Pan Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 large apple (such as Gala or Honeycrisp), cored and chopped into chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 small onion, diced
- Optional: 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or maple syrup for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes to prepare everything. The cooking will take around 35 to 40 minutes, so in total, plan for about 55 minutes to enjoy this delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, grab a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup later!
2. Toss the Veggies and Apples:
In a big bowl, toss together the halved Brussels sprouts and chopped apple chunks with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, the thyme, garlic powder, some salt, and pepper. If you’re adding an onion, throw that in too! Make sure everything is well coated.
3. Season the Chicken:
Next, take your chicken thighs and pat them dry with a paper towel. In a smaller bowl, mix the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil with the paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken—don’t forget to get under the skin for extra flavor!
4. Arrange Everything on the Pan:
Place the chicken thighs on the lined baking sheet, making sure there’s some space between them. Spread your Brussels sprouts and apple mixture evenly around the chicken. This helps everything cook nicely.
5. Roast It All Together:
Now, pop the sheet pan into the oven and let everything roast for about 35 to 40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the Brussels sprouts are nice and tender.
6. Add Sweetness (Optional):
If you like a touch of sweetness, in the last 5 minutes of cooking, drizzle a little balsamic vinegar or maple syrup over the apples and Brussels sprouts and continue roasting. This gives everything a delightful glaze!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done, remove the pan from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Then, serve it warm straight from the pan for an easy and hearty dinner!
Enjoy the combination of savory chicken, sweet apples, and nutty Brussels sprouts in every bite!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used! Just be aware that they may cook more quickly, so check for doneness at around 25-30 minutes instead of 35-40 minutes.
What if I Don’t Have Brussels Sprouts?
No problem! You can substitute Brussels sprouts with other vegetables such as green beans, broccoli, or cauliflower. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm in the microwave or oven until heated through to maintain the chicken’s moisture.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or bell peppers. Just keep in mind that different veggies may have varying cooking times, so adjust accordingly!