Easy Sheet Pan Chicken Legs and Sweet Potatoes

My Favorite One-Pan Wonder

This recipe is my little secret for busy days. Everything cooks together on one pan. That means less washing up for me. I love that.

Just chicken legs and sweet potatoes. You toss them with oil and spices. Then the oven does all the hard work. Doesn’t that sound easy? What is your favorite easy dinner to make?

The Spice That Tells a Story

Let’s talk about that smoked paprika. It is the star here. It gives a warm, cozy flavor. It reminds me of a campfire on a cool night.

I learned about it from my friend Maria years ago. She brought some back from Spain. I still laugh at that. I was so scared to try it! Now I put it on everything. Mixing your own spices matters. It makes the food taste like *you* made it, not a box.

How to Make It Just Right

First, chop your sweet potatoes. Make the pieces all about the same size. This is important. They will cook evenly that way.

Now, toss everything on that big sheet pan. Get your hands in there! Rub the oil and spices all over. Arrange the chicken legs between the potatoes. This helps the heat move around. Fun fact: A sheet pan meal is sometimes called a “tray bake” in England!

The Magic in Your Oven

As it bakes, your kitchen will smell amazing. The chicken skin gets crispy. The sweet potato edges get a little sweet and caramelized. That is the best part.

Please use a meat thermometer. Chicken should be 170 degrees inside. This matters for keeping everyone safe and healthy. Do you prefer dark meat chicken, like legs, or white meat, like breasts?

Why This Meal Feels So Good

This is more than just food on a plate. It is a complete, colorful meal. You have your protein and your vegetable together. That matters for a happy belly.

It also feels like a hug from the inside. The spices are warm. The sweet potatoes are comforting. It is perfect for sharing with family. Tell me, what meal always makes you feel cozy and happy?

Ingredients:

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Smoked paprika	2 teaspoon
Ground coriander	1 teaspoon
Garlic powder	1/2 teaspoon
Onion powder	1/4 teaspoon
Chili powder	1/4 teaspoon
Sea salt	1 teaspoon
Sweet potatoes	3 large, diced
Chicken legs	8-10
Olive oil	2 tablespoons

My Easy Sheet Pan Supper

Hello, dear! Let’s make a simple, cozy dinner. This recipe reminds me of busy weeknights with my own kids. Everything cooks together on one pan. That means less washing up for you. Doesn’t that smell amazing? The spices make your kitchen feel so warm. I still laugh at that. My grandson calls it “grandma’s confetti chicken” because of the colorful spices.

You just need chicken legs and sweet potatoes. The oven does most of the work. I love how the potatoes get a little sweet and crispy. The chicken stays nice and juicy. It’s a meal that feels like a big hug. Let me walk you through it, step-by-step.

• Step 1: First, turn your oven on to 375 degrees. Let it get nice and hot. While it heats, grab a small bowl. Mix all your spices together in it. This makes your special seasoning blend. I love the red color of the paprika.
• Step 2: Now, put your diced potatoes and chicken legs on the sheet pan. Drizzle them with the olive oil. Use your hands to toss it all together. Get everything a little shiny with oil. (My hard-learned tip: Dry your chicken legs with a paper towel first. This helps the skin get crispy!)
• Step 3: Sprinkle your spice mix all over everything. Toss it again so every piece gets some love. Then, tuck the chicken legs in between the potato pieces. This helps everything cook evenly. Do you think the potatoes or chicken will taste better? Share below!
• Step 4: Carefully put the pan in your hot oven. Bake it for about 30 to 35 minutes. The chicken must reach 170 degrees inside. The potatoes should be soft when you poke them. Your whole house will smell wonderful. Then, it’s time to eat!

Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 5 servings
Category: Dinner

Let’s Mix It Up!

This recipe is like a favorite sweater. It’s cozy, but you can dress it up! Here are three fun twists I like to try. They keep dinner interesting. My neighbor gave me the first idea last fall.

• Autumn Apple: Add chopped apples and red onion with the potatoes. The sweet and savory mix is so good.
• Zesty Lemon: Use lemon pepper instead of the spice mix. Add fresh lemon slices to the pan before baking.
• Hearty Veggie: Use big cauliflower florets instead of chicken. Add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese at the end.

Which one would you try first? Comment below!

Serving Your Masterpiece

This dish is a full meal already. But I always like to add a little something extra. A simple green salad on the side is perfect. The fresh crunch is lovely. You could also add a scoop of cool coleslaw. Or just chop some fresh parsley over the top for color.

For a drink, a cold glass of apple cider is wonderful. It matches the sweet potatoes. For the grown-ups, a pale ale beer tastes nice with the smoky spices. The flavors dance together. Which would you choose tonight?

Keeping Your Sheet Pan Supper Fresh

Let’s talk about keeping your lovely dinner. First, let it cool completely. Then store it in a sealed container. It will be happy in the fridge for three to four days.

You can freeze it for a future busy night too. I pack the chicken and potatoes in a freezer bag. I once forgot to label it and was so surprised weeks later. It was a nice surprise though.

To reheat, use your oven or toaster oven. Spread everything on a pan at 350°F. This keeps the skin crispy. The microwave can make it soggy.

This matters because a good plan saves time and food. You can double the recipe easily. Cook once and enjoy two meals. Have you ever tried storing it this way? Share below!

Simple Fixes for Common Hiccups

Is your chicken skin not crispy? Your pan might be too crowded. The pieces need space to breathe. I remember when my potatoes steamed instead of roasting. Now I use two pans if needed.

Are the sweet potatoes cooking faster than the chicken? Just cut them bigger. Bigger pieces take longer to get soft. This simple swap makes everything finish together.

Worried about the seasoning not sticking? Pat your chicken legs dry first. A dry surface helps the oil and spices cling. This matters for big, beautiful flavor in every bite.

Fixing small issues builds your cooking confidence. You learn what works for your oven. Which of these problems have you run into before?

Your Quick Questions, Answered

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, it is. All the spices and ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Q: Can I make it ahead?
A: You can mix the spices and chop potatoes early. Keep them separate until baking.

Q: What if I don’t have coriander?
A: Try a little more paprika or some dried thyme. It will still be delicious.

Q: Can I feed more people?
A: Absolutely. Just use two sheet pans. Give everything enough room.

Q: Any optional tips?
A: A fun fact: Sweet potatoes are packed with Vitamin A, which is great for your eyes! Toss in some onion wedges for extra sweetness. Which tip will you try first?

From My Kitchen to Yours

I hope this meal brings warmth to your table. It is simple, cozy, and just right for sharing. I love hearing how your versions turn out.

Please tell me all about it. Did your family love it? Did you add your own twist? Have you tried this recipe? Tag us on Pinterest! I would love to see your creations.

Thank you for cooking with me today. Happy cooking!

—Anna Whitmore.