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Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs with Corn and Zucchini Kids Love to Eat

sheet pan chicken thighs - featured image

A simple, flavorful sheet pan dinner featuring crispy chicken thighs, roasted corn, and tender zucchini that kids love. Ready in under an hour with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 46 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 2 ears fresh corn on the cob, cut into thirds
  • 2 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: fresh lemon wedges
  • Optional: red pepper flakes
  • Optional: Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Slice the zucchini into half-moons about ½ inch thick. Cut the corn cobs into thirds. Toss both in a large mixing bowl with 2 tablespoons olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and half the smoked paprika and oregano. Coat evenly and set aside.
  3. Pat dry each chicken thigh with paper towels. Rub the thighs with the remaining olive oil, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  4. Spread the chicken thighs skin-side up on one side of a large rimmed baking sheet, leaving space between pieces. Arrange the corn and zucchini on the other side in a single layer.
  5. Roast for 35-40 minutes. Halfway through (around 20 minutes), use tongs to flip the veggies and baste the chicken thighs with their own juices if desired.
  6. Check for doneness: chicken thighs should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and veggies should be tender and slightly browned. Optionally broil for 2-3 minutes to crisp the skin further, watching carefully.
  7. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes on the pan before serving. Squeeze fresh lemon over the top and sprinkle Parmesan on the veggies if using.

Notes

Pat chicken skin dry for crispiness. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming. Flip veggies halfway through roasting for even caramelization. Broil at the end for extra crispy skin if desired. Can swap veggies or add spices for variation. Boneless thighs cook faster but won’t have crispy skin.

Nutrition

Keywords: sheet pan chicken, chicken thighs, roasted corn, zucchini, kid-friendly dinner, easy weeknight meal, one-pan dinner