Sheet Pan Apple Chicken

⏱️ Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings

📝 Ingredients List

• 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 2 large honeycrisp apples, sliced into wedges
• 1 lb sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 large red onion, cut into chunks
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

• Large rimmed baking sheet
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper
• Tongs

Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken thighs, apple slices, sweet potato cubes, and red onion chunks to the bowl. Toss everything gently until well coated in the glaze. 🍗
4. Arrange the mixture in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Ensure the chicken isn’t crowded so it browns perfectly.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F) and the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Serve immediately while warm, perhaps garnished with fresh herbs if desired! 😋

💡 Pro Tips Section

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the texture of the apples.
• Substitutions: If you don’t have chicken thighs, chicken breasts work well, though they may cook slightly faster; monitor them closely to prevent drying out.
• Crispy Skin: If using skin-on chicken, broil for the final 2 minutes to get that perfect golden crunch.

Variations

• Add a handful of walnuts or pecans during the last 5 minutes of roasting for an extra crunch.
• Toss in some fresh kale or Brussels sprouts for added greenery.
• For a bit of heat, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes over the tray before roasting.

FAQ

Can I make this ahead of time? You can chop and prep your veggies and chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in separate containers and toss with the glaze right before roasting.

Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free provided your apple cider vinegar and seasonings are certified GF.