Cuban-Inspired Citrus Sheet Pan Chicken: A Flavorful Weeknight Delight!
Spice Up Your Weeknight Dinner Routine with Cuban-Inspired Citrus Sheet Pan Chicken
Busy moms, get ready to transform your weeknight dinners with our Cuban-inspired Citrus Sheet Pan Chicken recipe! This dish is bursting with vibrant flavors and designed with simplicity in mind, making it the perfect go-to meal when time is tight but you still want to serve something delicious and healthy. I love that I can toss everything together, pop it in the oven, and let it work its magic while I tackle the rest of my to-do list.
Ingredients:
- 3.5 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1/2 tbsp ground oregano
- 1/2 tbsp ground cumin
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh cilantro leaves for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. This high temperature will help you achieve beautifully golden and crispy chicken thighs.
- Prepare the Chicken: Arrange the chicken thighs on a large sheet pan in a single layer, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure the skin gets nice and crispy.
- Season the Chicken: Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken thighs, then season generously with salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, and oregano. Take a moment to massage the seasoning into the chicken, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Add Garlic: Scatter the minced garlic over the chicken thighs, distributing it evenly to infuse the dish with rich, garlicky goodness.
- Roast: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven on the middle rack and roast the chicken for about 35 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and cooked through- To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, check that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Your kitchen will be filled with the mouthwatering aroma of citrus and spices.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the chicken is done, remove the pan from the oven and sprinkle the freshly chopped cilantro over the top. The cilantro adds a burst of freshness and elevates the dish with its vibrant green color.
- Enjoy: Serve these succulent chicken thighs immediately, either on their own or paired with your favorite side dishes like rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
This Cuban-Inspired Citrus Sheet Pan Chicken isn’t just a feast for the taste buds—it’s also a nutritious option for your family. Chicken thighs are a fantastic source of protein, and the blend of spices brings depth and richness to the dish without the need for complicated steps or ingredients. With minimal preparation and maximum flavor, this recipe is the ideal solution for busy weeknights when you need something quick, healthy, and satisfying.
Say goodbye to the monotony of routine meals and treat your family to a culinary adventure that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Havana. Give this recipe a try tonight, and savor the delicious flavors of Cuba right from the comfort of your home!
Here’s an easy printable recipe card for you!
