This Moroccan Chicken Thigh Sheet Pan Dinner is a one-pan wonder! Juicy chicken thighs roast with colorful veggies and spices for a meal full of flavor that comes together easily.
It’s like having a little taste of Morocco right in your kitchen! I love how simple it is—just toss everything on a sheet pan, and let the oven do the work while you relax. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are perfect for this dish because they stay juicy during roasting. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless, skinless thighs or chicken breasts will work, just adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster.
Spices: The blend of cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, and cinnamon really brings that Moroccan flavor. If you don’t have something on hand, you can use curry powder as a substitute to maintain a warm spice profile.
Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes provide sweetness and nutrition. If you need a substitute, butternut squash or regular potatoes can be used. Both will add a delicious taste to the dish.
Chickpeas: They add protein and texture! If you want a different legume, try using lentils. Just remember to cook lentils separately first.
Pomegranate Seeds: These add a pop of color and sweetness. If they are out of season or hard to find, dried cranberries can also provide a sweet contrast.
How Do You Get Perfectly Roasted Vegetables?
To achieve beautifully roasted veggies that are tender and slightly caramelized, even don’t overcrowd the pan. Here’s how:
- Ensure the vegetables are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
- Toss them in olive oil and seasoning to coat evenly.
- Spread them in a single layer on the sheet pan. If they are too crowded, they will steam instead of roast.
- Stir halfway through cooking for even browning.
Remember, patience is key! Let them roast until golden brown for the best flavor and texture.
Moroccan Chicken Thigh Sheet Pan Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup cauliflower florets (preferably golden/yellow cauliflower)
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 lemon, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, along with 35 to 45 minutes of cooking time. In total, you should budget about 1 hour for this flavorful, aromatic dinner that comes together easily on a single sheet pan.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key for roasting the chicken and vegetables until they are beautifully browned and cooked through. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or give it a light grease to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Spice Blend:
In a small bowl, mix together the ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. This wonderful spice mix will bring a fantastic flavor to the dish!
3. Prep the Chicken Thighs:
Using paper towels, pat the chicken thighs dry to help them crisp up in the oven. Rub 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken, then sprinkle the spice mixture evenly across all sides of the thighs, making sure they are well coated.
4. Toss the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweet potato cubes, sliced carrots, cauliflower florets, and chickpeas. Drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and add a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss until everything is evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
5. Assemble on the Sheet Pan:
Spread the seasoned vegetables and chickpeas evenly on the prepared sheet pan. Place the spiced chicken thighs on top of the vegetables. This enables the chicken juices to flavor the veggies while it cooks.
6. Add Lemon:
Place the lemon halves cut-side down among the chicken and vegetables. This will add a lovely roasted lemon flavor to the dish!
7. Roast to Perfection:
Put the sheet pan in your preheated oven and roast for 35–45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The vegetables should be tender and slightly caramelized around the edges.
8. Squeeze Lemon for Extra Flavor:
After removing the pan from the oven, squeeze the roasted lemon halves over the chicken and veggies. This adds a burst of brightness to the dish!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, top your dinner with chopped fresh cilantro and pomegranate seeds for a delightful pop of color and flavor just before serving.
10. Enjoy:
Serve your Moroccan Chicken Thigh Sheet Pan Dinner warm, taking in the delicious smell and vibrant colors. Enjoy every bite of those Moroccan spices mixed with sweet roasted veggies!
This recipe presents a wonderful balance of flavors and textures, making for both a hearty and healthy meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table. Enjoy!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs will work just fine. Just reduce the cooking time to about 25-30 minutes, checking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they’re cooked through.
What If I Don’t Have All the Spices?
No problem! You can use a store-bought spice blend like curry powder or even a Moroccan spice mix if available. Just make sure to taste as you go, adjusting the amounts to suit your preference.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or onions. Just make sure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking. Enjoy experimenting!
