Garlic Lemon Chicken with Roasted Potatoes and Broccoli and Yogurt Parmesan Herb Sauce Recipe

Introduction

This Garlic Lemon Chicken recipe offers a vibrant and flavorful meal with juicy chicken thighs, tender baby potatoes, and fresh broccoli. Finished with a creamy yogurt Parmesan herb sauce, it’s an easy, all-in-one sheet pan dinner perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 1 ½- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (see notes for breasts)
• 1 pound baby Dutch potatoes, quartered, halved if super small
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon each salt, pepper, dried basil, dried oregano, onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon each paprika, ground cumin, dried thyme, sugar
• 1 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 1/4 cup finely, freshly grated Parmesan
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped chives (optional)
• 1 tablespoon minced dill (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon each salt, ground cumin
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
2. Step 2: Combine the olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, dried basil, dried oregano, onion powder, paprika, ground cumin, dried thyme, and sugar in a large freezer-size sealable bag. Remove 2 tablespoons of this marinade and set aside for the vegetables.
3. Step 3: Add the chicken thighs to the bag, seal, and turn to coat thoroughly. Marinate the chicken at room temperature for 20 minutes or refrigerate up to 4 hours while preparing the potatoes.
4. Step 4: Line a large sheet pan with sides (about 15×21 inches) with foil and spray with cooking spray for easy cleanup.
5. Step 5: Place the quartered baby potatoes on the sheet pan. Toss with 1 tablespoon of the reserved marinade (never touched by the chicken) and ¼ teaspoon salt until evenly coated. Spread the potatoes into an even layer and bake for 15 minutes.
6. Step 6: Remove the sheet pan from the oven. Push the potatoes to one side. Add the broccoli florets and toss with 1 tablespoon of the reserved marinade. Spread broccoli next to the potatoes in a single layer. Place the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer beside the vegetables.
7. Step 7: Bake uncovered at 400 degrees F for 17-22 minutes, or until chicken thighs reach an internal temperature of 170-175 degrees F (165 degrees F for breasts) measured with an instant-read thermometer.
8. Step 8: While the chicken bakes, prepare the Yogurt Parmesan Herb Sauce by whisking together Greek yogurt or sour cream, Parmesan, parsley, lemon juice, chives (if using), dill (if using), salt, ground cumin, and pepper. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter option, substitute chicken breasts for thighs but reduce baking time and check doneness carefully to avoid dryness.
• If fresh lemon is not available, use 2 tablespoons bottled lemon juice plus 1 teaspoon zest.
• Add red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
• Use plain yogurt instead of Greek yogurt if preferred; strain yogurt beforehand to thicken the sauce if it’s too watery.
• Swap broccoli for asparagus or green beans depending on seasonal availability.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through or microwave in short intervals to prevent drying. Keep the yogurt Parmesan herb sauce separate and add fresh after reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used but they tend to cook faster and can dry out. Bake until they reach 165 degrees F internally and consider marinating for less time for best results.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?

While marinating is recommended to enhance flavor and tenderness, if short on time you can skip marinating and still enjoy a tasty meal by mixing the chicken with the marinade ingredients just before baking.