Moroccan Chicken Thigh Sheet Pan Dinner

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are perfect here for juicy flavor. If you prefer, you can use boneless thighs or even chicken breast, but cooking times may vary.

Vegetables: This recipe features a variety of colorful vegetables. If you don’t have all the listed veggies, try using whatever you have on hand—potatoes, broccoli, or green beans can work well too!

Spices: The spice blend is what gives this dish its Moroccan flair. Don’t hesitate to adjust the spices based on your taste. For example, add more cayenne for heat, or skip it entirely for a milder dish.

Chickpeas: Chickpeas add protein and texture. If you’re looking for a substitute, cooked lentils or even diced firm tofu can work nicely for a different twist.

How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?

To make sure your chicken is cooked just right, it’s essential to check its internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C). Here’s how to do it:

• Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone.
• If you’re using skinless thighs or breasts, the cooking time may be shorter; keep an eye on them at the 30-minute mark.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps keep it juicy!

By following these tips, you’ll end up with a flavorful and hearty meal everyone will enjoy! Happy cooking!

Moroccan Chicken Thigh Sheet Pan Dinner

Ingredients:

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 medium carrots, sliced into rounds
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds
• 1 cup cauliflower florets
• 1 cup sweet potato, cubed
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Pomegranate seeds (optional, for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delightful dish will take about 10 minutes for prep and 35 to 45 minutes for roasting, giving you a total time of approximately 1 hour to serve a delicious meal! Perfect for a busy weeknight or a special weekend dinner.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Oven and Pan:

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it heats up, line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or give it a light grease to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the Spices:

In a small bowl, combine your spices: ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper (if using), ground coriander, salt, and pepper. This blend will give your chicken and veggies a warm, Moroccan flavor.

3. Prepare the Chicken:

Use paper towels to pat the chicken thighs dry. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken and rub half of the spice mixture evenly across all sides. This will help to lock in flavor!

4. Toss the Vegetables:

In a large bowl, combine the sliced carrots, zucchini, cauliflower florets, cubed sweet potato, chopped bell pepper, and rinsed chickpeas. Drizzle in the remaining olive oil, add minced garlic and lemon juice. Toss everything together until the veggies are well coated with oil and spices.

5. Arrange Everything on the Pan:

Place the seasoned chicken thighs on the sheet pan, skin side up. Scatter the seasoned vegetables around the chicken in a single layer to allow even cooking.

6. Roast in the Oven:

Roast everything in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on the chicken to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and that the vegetables become nice and tender. Slightly caramelized edges are a bonus!

7. Broil for Extra Crispiness (Optional):

If you like a crispy skin, switch your oven to broil for an extra 2-3 minutes. Just watch carefully to avoid burning!

8. Garnish Before Serving:

Once cooked, remove the pan from the oven. Sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro and optional pomegranate seeds for a burst of color and flavor.

9. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve your Moroccan Chicken Thigh Sheet Pan Dinner hot, alongside fluffy couscous or a refreshing green salad for a complete meal.

Enjoy every delicious, spicy bite of your Moroccan Chicken Thigh Sheet Pan Dinner!

Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs for This Recipe?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used! Just keep in mind that the cooking time will be shorter—check for doneness around the 25-30 minute mark to avoid overcooking.

What Vegetables Can I Substitute or Add?

If you don’t have some of the vegetables listed, feel free to use other favorites like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or even asparagus. Just cut them to similar sizes so they cook evenly!

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and prep the vegetables a day in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate them, then roast when you’re ready to serve for a quick dinner.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven or microwave until heated through—you may want to add a splash of water to keep the veggies moist!