Sheet Pan Vinegar Chicken: Easy One-Pan Dinner Recipe

Sheet Pan Vinegar Chicken: A Flavorful and Easy Dinner Recipe

Are you craving a delicious dinner that’s easy to prepare? This Sheet Pan Vinegar Chicken recipe combines juicy, tangy chicken thighs with perfectly roasted vegetables, all cooked together on a single sheet pan. Packed with bold flavors and healthy ingredients, this dish is a game-changer for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a nutritious meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients for Sheet Pan Vinegar Chicken

To create this flavorful Sheet Pan Vinegar Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients. This recipe serves 4-6 people.

For the Marinade:

1/4 cup red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons honey
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Chicken and Vegetables:

1 1/2 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 medium red onion, sliced into wedges
2 cups baby potatoes, halved
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade

The heart of this Sheet Pan Vinegar Chicken is the tangy and aromatic marinade. In a small bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. This marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with deep, vibrant flavors.

2. Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl or a resealable plastic bag.
Pour half the marinade over the chicken and toss to coat evenly. Reserve the rest for the vegetables.
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours for more intense flavor.

3. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or foil to simplify cleanup after preparing your Sheet Pan Vinegar Chicken.

4. Prepare the Vegetables

In a separate bowl, toss the baby potatoes, red onion wedges, cherry tomatoes, and zucchini slices with the remaining marinade.
Ensure all vegetables are well coated for a flavorful addition to your Sheet Pan Vinegar Chicken.

5. Assemble on the Sheet Pan

Spread the marinated vegetables in an even layer on the sheet pan.
Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up on top of the vegetables. Placing the chicken on top allows its juices to enhance the vegetables as everything roasts together.

6. Bake the Vinegar Chicken

Roast the Sheet Pan Vinegar Chicken in the oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the vegetables are tender.
For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end of the cooking time.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, let the Sheet Pan Vinegar Chicken rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, and serve with lemon wedges for a bright finishing touch. This flavorful dish is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.

Why You’ll Love Sheet Pan Vinegar Chicken

Effortless Preparation: With everything cooked on a single sheet pan, cleanup is minimal.
Vibrant Flavors: The red wine vinegar marinade brings a tangy, balanced taste to the dish.
Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein and roasted vegetables, this dish is both wholesome and satisfying.
Customizable: Easily swap vegetables or adjust the marinade to suit your preferences.

Variations and Substitutions

Vegetarian Version

For a vegetarian twist, swap the chicken for firm tofu or tempeh. Marinate the tofu or tempeh and roast alongside the vegetables to create a hearty plant-based meal.

Alternative Proteins

Substitute the chicken thighs with drumsticks, boneless chicken breasts, or pork chops for a different texture and taste.
You can also try this recipe with fish fillets, adjusting the cooking time to avoid overcooking.

Vegetable Additions

Add sweet potatoes, cauliflower, or green beans for more variety. These vegetables roast beautifully and complement the tangy flavors of the Sheet Pan Vinegar Chicken.

Pro Tips for the Best Sheet Pan Vinegar Chicken

Pat the Chicken Dry: This helps the marinade adhere better and promotes crispier skin during roasting.
Space Everything Out: Avoid overcrowding the pan so the chicken and vegetables roast evenly. Use two pans if needed.
Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for several hours or overnight.
Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground pepper and oregano can enhance the dish’s overall taste.

Suggested Pairings

Drinks

Pair the tangy flavors of Sheet Pan Vinegar Chicken with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
For a non-alcoholic option, serve with sparkling water infused with lemon or mint.

Side Dishes

A crisp arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the dish beautifully.
Warm crusty bread or garlic naan works great for soaking up the delicious juices.
For a heartier meal, serve with rice, quinoa, or couscous.