Sheet Pan Chipotle Chicken Thighs
Highlighted under: Easy Plates
This Sheet Pan Chipotle Chicken Thighs recipe offers a deliciously spicy and smoky flavor profile, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
This recipe combines the bold flavors of chipotle with juicy chicken thighs, making it a family favorite. The convenience of a sheet pan meal allows for easy cleanup and a delicious dinner on the table in no time.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Spicy chipotle flavor that elevates your chicken
- One-pan meal for easy cooking and cleanup
- Versatile recipe that pairs well with various sides
The Magic of Chipotle
Chipotle peppers are a staple in Mexican cuisine, known for their unique combination of heat and smokiness. When incorporated into dishes, they provide a depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste experience. In this recipe, the chipotle sauce not only spices up the chicken thighs but also creates a beautiful caramelization during baking, giving each bite a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness.
This Sheet Pan Chipotle Chicken Thighs recipe is a fantastic way to introduce chipotle flavors to your dinner table. The marinade infuses the chicken with a rich, spicy taste, while the skin crisps up beautifully in the oven, providing a satisfying contrast to the tender meat underneath. If you're a fan of bold flavors, this dish will quickly become a favorite.
One-Pan Convenience
One of the standout features of this recipe is its simplicity and convenience. Cooking everything on a single sheet pan means you can prepare a flavorful dinner without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. After enjoying your meal, cleanup becomes a breeze—simply wash the sheet pan and you’re done!
The one-pan aspect is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to enjoy a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Just prep, bake, and serve, making it an ideal choice for families and individuals alike. Plus, with the variety of vegetables included, you can easily customize the dish to your liking.
Perfect Pairings
While the chipotle chicken thighs are the star of the show, you can elevate your meal even further by pairing them with complementary sides. Consider serving this dish with fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful juices. A fresh green salad can also add a nice crunch and balance to the richness of the chicken.
For a heartier option, roasted potatoes or a medley of seasonal vegetables would work wonderfully. The versatility of this recipe allows you to mix and match sides based on your preferences, making it an easy go-to for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chipotle sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Vegetables
- 2 cups bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup red onion, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Prepare the Chicken
In a bowl, mix the olive oil, chipotle sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat well.
Arrange on Sheet Pan
Place the chicken thighs on one side of a large sheet pan. In a separate bowl, toss the bell peppers and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread on the other side of the pan.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
Serve
Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your meal!
Pair with rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making the chicken even tastier the next day. When reheating, simply pop it back in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through, ensuring the skin retains its crispiness.
For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken and vegetables separately. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a quick and delicious meal on busy days.
Customizing Your Dish
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences! If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chipotle sauce or use a different type of seasoning. Alternatively, if you enjoy extra heat, add some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
You can also experiment with different vegetables based on what you have on hand. Zucchini, corn, or even sweet potatoes can be great additions that will roast beautifully alongside the chicken. This flexibility makes it a fun recipe to adapt for different seasons and occasions.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless thighs will cook faster, so reduce the baking time by about 10 minutes.
→ What can I substitute for chipotle sauce?
You can use a combination of smoked paprika and a bit of hot sauce for a similar flavor.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Zucchini, broccoli, or carrots would also work well in this recipe.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Sheet Pan Chipotle Chicken Thighs
This Sheet Pan Chipotle Chicken Thighs recipe offers a deliciously spicy and smoky flavor profile, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Easy Plates
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chipotle sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Vegetables
- 2 cups bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup red onion, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
In a bowl, mix the olive oil, chipotle sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat well.
Place the chicken thighs on one side of a large sheet pan. In a separate bowl, toss the bell peppers and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread on the other side of the pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your meal!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 30g