This dish is a warm hug for your taste buds! It features juicy chicken and tasty sausages roasted on a sheet pan, all topped with soft, fluffy gnocchi. Yum!
Honestly, this recipe combines comfort food with easy prep. Just pop everything on the pan, and let the oven do the magic. Perfect for busy days when you need a cozy meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are my favorite for their juiciness and flavor. If you prefer, use skinless thighs or even chicken breasts, but they may not be as moist.
Italian Sausage: The sausage adds a nice kick. If you want a lighter option, turkey sausage works well too. Or, go meatless and use veggie sausage for a vegetarian twist!
Gnocchi: Store-bought gnocchi is super convenient, but homemade can be fun to make if you have the time. If you don’t have gnocchi, you could substitute with mini pasta like orzo or even diced potatoes.
Vegetables: Red onions and red bell peppers add color and sweetness. You can swap in other veggies like zucchini, asparagus, or even carrots based on what you have on hand.
Herbs: Fresh herbs bring great flavor. If they’re hard to find, dried herbs like oregano or basil can work well. Just use about a third of the amount!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Juicy and Cooked Properly?
Getting the chicken perfectly cooked while keeping it juicy is key. Here are a few tips:
- Start by patting the chicken dry. This helps the skin crisp up nicely.
- Season the chicken well with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer! Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Give those pieces some space to roast evenly.
- Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices, keeping it moist.
By using these steps, you’ll achieve deliciously juicy chicken every time. Happy cooking!
Sheet Pan Chicken Scarpariello Gets a Cozy Gnocchi Makeover
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 6 pieces)
- 1 lb Italian sausage, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 lb gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 large red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prep and 40-45 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at just under an hour for a delicious, homemade meal. Super simple and definitely worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps crisp the skin of the chicken and roast the veggies beautifully. Don’t forget to lightly oil a large rimmed sheet pan to keep everything from sticking!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Use paper towels to pat the chicken thighs dry. This step is important for getting a crispy finish. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, rosemary, thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
3. Arrange the Ingredients:
Place the seasoned chicken thighs and sausage pieces on the sheet pan. Toss in the gnocchi, red onion wedges, and sliced bell pepper, spreading everything out evenly. This helps the ingredients roast properly without steaming each other.
4. Add Olive Oil and Garlic:
Drizzle olive oil over the mixture and sprinkle the minced garlic on top. Gently toss everything to coat, ensuring it’s well mixed, then spread the ingredients into a single layer.
5. First Roasting Phase:
Pop the pan into the preheated oven and roast for 20 minutes. This initial roasting helps develop nice color and flavor!
6. Add the Liquids:
Once 20 minutes are up, carefully pour the chicken broth (and white wine if you’re using it) over everything on the pan. This will add moisture and flavor as it finishes cooking.
7. Continue Roasting:
Return to the oven and roast for another 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on your chicken; it’s done when it’s golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The sausages should also be fully cooked, and the gnocchi will be tender and slightly browned.
8. Finish and Serve:
Once cooked, take the pan out of the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve directly from the pan for a rustic look, and enjoy the delicious combination of juicy chicken, savory sausage, fluffy gnocchi, and roasted veggies!
This recipe captures the classic flavors of Chicken Scarpariello and adds a cozy twist with the gnocchi. A perfect meal for sharing with family or friends—enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! While bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs provide great flavor and moisture, you can also use skinless chicken thighs, drumsticks, or even chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What can I Substitute for Gnocchi?
If you don’t have gnocchi on hand, you can substitute it with small pasta varieties like orzo, fusilli, or even diced potatoes. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as necessary, especially if using potatoes.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Can I Make This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prep all the ingredients a day ahead. Just store them in the fridge in separate containers. When you’re ready to cook, follow the roasting instructions, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if the ingredients are cold.
