If you’ve been searching for an easy, flavorful dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you are going to love this Sheet Pan Chicken Legs and Sweet Potatoes Recipe. It’s a simple, wholesome dish where tender, juicy chicken legs are paired with sweet, caramelized sweet potatoes, all roasted together on one pan. The seasoning mix brings smoky, savory notes with just a hint of spice, making this a weeknight favorite that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction.
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s something so wonderful about using straightforward ingredients that each add their own unique flair to a dish. In this Sheet Pan Chicken Legs and Sweet Potatoes Recipe, every item plays a crucial role in creating layers of flavor, inviting aromas, and textures that are just right—crispy, tender, and deeply comforting.
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika: Adds a gentle smokiness that elevates the chicken and sweet potatoes beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander: Brings a subtle citrusy warmth to brighten the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses savory depth without overpowering the other spices.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: A gentle savoriness that subtly enhances every bite.
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder: Offers just the right kick to keep things exciting.
- 1 teaspoon sea salt: Essential to balance and bring out all those wonderful flavors.
- 3 large sweet potatoes, diced: Their natural sweetness and creamy texture are the perfect complement to the seasoned chicken.
- 8-10 chicken legs: Meaty, juicy, and ideal for soaking up all the seasoning and roasting juices.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps everything roast to golden perfection and keeps the chicken skin wonderfully crisp.
How to Make Sheet Pan Chicken Legs and Sweet Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Seasonings
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While it warms up, mix together the smoked paprika, ground coriander, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and sea salt in a small bowl. This spice blend is the heart of the Sheet Pan Chicken Legs and Sweet Potatoes Recipe, making sure every bite bursts with flavor.
Step 2: Toss Chicken and Sweet Potatoes
Place the diced sweet potatoes and chicken legs right onto your sheet pan. Drizzle the olive oil over them and toss everything well, making sure the oil coats each piece evenly. This step is key to achieving that beautiful roast with crispy edges and moist interiors.
Step 3: Season and Arrange
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture generously over the chicken legs and sweet potatoes. Toss again to spread the spices evenly, ensuring no piece misses out on the flavor party. Then, arrange the chicken legs nestled in between the sweet potatoes so they all cook evenly together on one pan.
Step 4: Roast to Perfection
Transfer your sheet pan to the oven and let it bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken legs reach an internal temperature of 165°F, and the sweet potatoes are tender and caramelized around the edges. This hands-off roasting lets you relax and count down the minutes until deliciousness is served.
How to Serve Sheet Pan Chicken Legs and Sweet Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
To really brighten your dish and add a fresh finish, sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro right before serving. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a wonderful zing that cuts through the richness and brings everything alive.
Side Dishes
This recipe is perfectly balanced on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad for freshness or some steamed greens like broccoli or green beans to round out the meal with color and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy family-style dinner, transfer the roasted chicken legs and sweet potatoes to a rustic wooden board or large serving platter, letting guests help themselves. Or, serve individual portions in warm bowls topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of spicy harissa sauce for an exciting twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even tastier lunch or dinner on day two.
Freezing
If you want to keep this Sheet Pan Chicken Legs and Sweet Potatoes Recipe ready for a busy night, freeze baked portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes until warmed through and the chicken skin crisps back up nicely. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that satisfying texture.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead of legs?
Absolutely! Bone-in thighs will work wonderfully with this recipe and may even have slightly more juicy flavor. Just keep an eye on cooking times since they can vary a bit.
How do I know when the chicken legs are fully cooked?
The safest method is to use a meat thermometer and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The juices should run clear and the skin should be golden and crisp.
Can I add other vegetables to the sheet pan?
Yes, vegetables like bell peppers, red onions, or Brussels sprouts can be added for extra variety. Just chop them into similar sizes and add them early enough to cook through.
Is this recipe spicy?
The chili powder adds a mild kick but nothing too intense—perfect for those who like just a touch of heat. You can always adjust the amount to suit your taste.
What’s the best type of sweet potato to use?
Any variety of sweet potato works, but the orange-fleshed types are naturally sweeter and roast beautifully, giving you tender, caramelized bites every time.
Final Thoughts
This Sheet Pan Chicken Legs and Sweet Potatoes Recipe is one of those meals that feels effortlessly special while being incredibly simple to make. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend dinners. I can’t wait for you to try it and truly enjoy every bite of its comforting, bold flavors.
Print
Sheet Pan Chicken Legs and Sweet Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sheet Pan Chicken Legs and Sweet Potatoes recipe is an easy, flavorful one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken legs are seasoned with a smoky, spiced rub and roasted alongside sweet potato chunks until golden and caramelized. Minimal prep and cleanup make this dish a hassle-free dinner option that delivers satisfying comfort and wholesome nourishment.
Ingredients
Seasoning Mix
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
Main Ingredients
- 3 large sweet potatoes, diced
- 8–10 chicken legs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for roasting the chicken legs and sweet potatoes evenly.
- Mix Seasonings: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, ground coriander, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and sea salt to create a flavorful spice blend.
- Prepare Sheet Pan: Place diced sweet potatoes and chicken legs onto a large sheet pan. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and toss gently to coat all pieces thoroughly.
- Season the Ingredients: Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over the chicken and sweet potatoes. Toss again gently to ensure the seasoning is well distributed. Arrange the chicken pieces nestled among the sweet potato chunks for even cooking.
- Roast: Transfer the sheet pan to the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Roast until the chicken legs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sweet potatoes are tender and caramelized.
Notes
- For more even cooking, ensure the sweet potato pieces are cut into similar sizes.
- Use a meat thermometer to verify chicken is fully cooked to 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.
- Feel free to add your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
