Create this spectacular one-pan meal that transforms simple ingredients into restaurant-quality dinner! Succulent chicken thighs and golden potatoes roasted together in aromatic spices deliver maximum flavour with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressive enough for Sunday lunch.

Why This Recipe Works Brilliantly

This clever technique combines the best of both worlds, tender, juicy chicken and perfectly crispy potatoes, all infused with Mediterranean-inspired spices. The secret lies in the two-stage cooking method that ensures everything cooks to perfection simultaneously.

Ingredients

For the Spice Mixture:

• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon chilli powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley
• 2 bouillon cubes, crushed
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Main Components:

• 6-8 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
• 800g Irish potatoes, cut into chunks
• 400g sweet potatoes, cut into chunks
• 2 large leeks, sliced into rounds (or 2 onions, thinly sliced)

Method

Step 1: Prepare Everything (10 minutes)

1. Preheat oven to 215°C (200°C fan)/Gas Mark 7
2. Line baking tray with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup
3. Make spice mixture: Combine olive oil, lemon juice, and all spices in a large bowl
4. Prep vegetables: Cut potatoes into similar-sized chunks, slice leeks into rounds

Step 2: Season and Coat (5 minutes)

1. Add everything to bowl: Place chicken thighs, both types of potatoes, and leeks with the spice mixture
2. Season generously: Add salt and pepper to taste
3. Coat thoroughly: Use clean hands to massage everything until completely coated
4. Arrange on tray: Transfer to prepared baking tray, skin-side up for chicken

Step 3: First Bake (40 minutes)

1. Cover tightly: Place aluminium foil over the entire tray
2. Bake covered: Cook for 40 minutes to steam and tenderise
3. Check doneness: Potatoes should be nearly tender when pierced

Step 4: Crispy Finish (25 minutes)

1. Remove foil: Uncover carefully to avoid steam burns
2. Flip potatoes: Turn for even browning and better texture
3. Baste everything: Spoon pan juices over chicken and potatoes
4. Final bake: Cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Check doneness: Chicken should reach 75°C internal temperature
2. Rest briefly: Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving
3. Serve immediately: While everything is at peak crispiness

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Potato Perfection: Cut potatoes uniformly for even cooking; about 3cm chunks work best Skin Success: Pat chicken skin dry before seasoning for ultimate crispiness Don’t Overcrowd: Use a large enough tray so everything has space to brown properly Temperature Matters: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked

Customisation Options

Spice Variations: Add rosemary, oregano, or smoked paprika for different flavours Vegetable Swaps: Try parsnips, carrots, or butternut squash instead of sweet potatoes Herb Upgrade: Fresh herbs added in the last 10 minutes elevate the dish considerably

Serving Suggestions

This complete meal pairs beautifully with:

• Simple sides: Steamed green vegetables or fresh salad
• Sauces: Garlic aioli, herb butter, or gravy made from pan juices
• Bread: Crusty rolls to soak up the delicious cooking juices

Make-Ahead Tips

Prep in advance: Season everything up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate Leftover magic: Reheat gently in a 160°C oven for 10-15 minutes Storage: Refrigerate covered for up to 3 days

Why Sweet and Irish Potatoes Work Together

The combination creates perfect texture contrast; Irish potatoes become fluffy inside and crispy outside, whilst sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and vibrant colour. Together, they make this dish both visually stunning and flavour-balanced.

Nutritional Benefits

This wholesome meal provides complete protein from chicken, complex carbohydrates from potatoes, and essential vitamins from the mixed vegetables. The olive oil and spices add healthy fats and antioxidants.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Soggy potatoes: Ensure oven is fully preheated and don’t skip the uncovered final stage Dry chicken: Don’t overcook, use a thermometer and baste with pan juices Uneven cooking: Cut vegetables uniformly and don’t overcrowd the tray

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes | Serves: 4-6 people | Difficulty: Easy