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Easy Crispy Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken with Asparagus

easy crispy sheet pan lemon garlic chicken - featured image

A quick and flavorful sheet pan dinner featuring crispy chicken thighs and tender asparagus infused with lemon and garlic. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is fuss-free and delicious.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 bunch asparagus (about 1 pound)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from 1 large lemon)
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Trim the asparagus by snapping off the woody ends (about 1-2 inches). Wash and pat dry.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  4. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss well to coat with the marinade. Let sit for 5-10 minutes if time allows.
  5. Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up on a rimmed sheet pan, spaced apart for air circulation.
  6. Scatter the asparagus around the chicken and drizzle any leftover marinade over the veggies. Toss asparagus lightly to coat.
  7. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes. At about 15 minutes, use tongs to turn the asparagus and baste the chicken with pan juices.
  8. Check for doneness by piercing the thickest part of a chicken thigh; juices should run clear and internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Skin should be golden and crispy.
  9. Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  10. Serve warm with a squeeze of fresh lemon if desired.

Notes

Pat chicken skin dry before marinating to ensure crispiness. Use high heat (425°F) for roasting to get crispy skin. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent soggy skin. Turn asparagus halfway through cooking for even roasting. Let chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy. If asparagus browns too quickly, tent pan with foil halfway through roasting. Reheat leftovers in a skillet or oven to maintain crispy skin; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: sheet pan chicken, lemon garlic chicken, asparagus recipe, quick dinner, easy chicken recipe, crispy chicken thighs, healthy dinner