Lemon Chicken Gnocchi with Brussels

This Lemon Chicken, Gnocchi and Brussels sheet pan is another winner winner chicken dinner! It is super easy and so yummy!  The shallots and garlic are so sweet after roasting and add the best flavors.  This dish is loaded with vegetables especially when you use cauliflower gnocchi!  Leftovers are always welcome for lunch the next day. Are sheet pan dinners your jam? You might like these Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Crispy skinned chicken thighs, tender Brussel sprouts, pillowy soft cauliflower gnocchi with lots of garlic, shallots and lemon! What's not to love. Plus one pan equals less clean up!

Ingredients You Will Need

Chicken thighs: I love using chicken thighs because they always come out juicy and tender from the extra fat that comes from the thighs. Also, because of the extra fat they never dry out like breast meat tends to if slightly overcooked.

Garlic: Fresh is best for obtaining a little stronger touch of garlic flavor than the sweeter touch you would obtain from powder.

Shallot: Shallots are a type of onion that are a member of the allium family. Closely related to garlic, chives and onions. Having a mild, savory flavor with garlic undertones.

Brussel sprouts: Brussel sprouts are a member of the cabbage family and are grown for their edible buds. They are high in vitamin C and beneficial for your immune system and your heart!

Cauliflower gnocchi: The cauliflower gnocchi from Trader Joe's is available in the freezer section and happens to be a personal favorite. Of course, any gnocchi you enjoy can be used for this recipe!

Lemon: Lemon adds a fresh, bright, and tangy element, which can help balance the richness of the other ingredients.

Extra virgin olive oil: Olive oil stands out as an excellent choice for sautéing, adding richness and enhancing the natural flavors of foods with its versatility.

Smoked paprika: Smoked paprika introduces a distinct smoky flavor that complements the other spices, adding depth and a unique taste.

Salt and pepper: Salt enhances and balances flavors, while ground black pepper adds a gentle heat, improving the overall flavor of a dish.

Thyme: Is a pungent herb that can withstand longer cooking times in stews and soups and adds a depth of flavor.

Parsley: Parsley brings a burst of fresh, herby goodness to soups, giving them a nice lift and adding a bit of vibrant flavor.

Instructions

Preheat oven and prepare the pan: Preheat oven to 350˚. Line a large rimmed sheet pan with parchment paper.

Combine the spice: Mix all of the spice together in a small bowl and divide in half.

Spice the chicken: Place chicken thighs on pan and sprinkle with half of the spice.

Prepare the garlic and shallot: In a small bowl combine shallots and garlic and drizzle with oil then place on the pan around chicken.

Roast: Roast for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Brussels and gnocchi: Meanwhile place the Brussel Sprouts and gnocchi in a bowl and toss with olive oil and remaining spice.

Cook the veggies: Remove chicken from oven and spread Brussel sprouts and gnocchi around chicken. Now add your lemons to the pan.

Continue roasting: Roast another 30 minutes or until chicken is crispy and Brussels are tender.

Garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley.

Enjoy!

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Frozen Brussel sprouts: If you prefer you can use frozen Brussel sprouts.

Lemon: If you like a stronger lemon flavor, grab and extra lemon and squeeze the juice over the entire pan when adding the slices.

Recipe Variations

Boneless thighs: You can easily swap boneless thighs for thighs on the bone in this recipe.

Gnocchi: If you are not concerned about keeping this recipe paleo friendly you can use regular gnocchi.

Other veggies: Carrots, broccoli or green beans are some other veggies that would work well with sheet pan in place of Brussels. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

Storage Tips

This Lemon Chicken Gnocchi with Brussels can be stored in the fridge for 4-5 days when placed in a sealed airtight glass container, and it's freezer-safe for up to 6 months.

FAQs About Lemon Chicken Gnocchi with Brussels

What does adding lemon juice to chicken do?

Lemon is acidic and helps to balance the stronger flavor of the dark meat in thighs and legs, and the fat from the chicken skin.

Do you have to boil gnocchi before roasting?

There is no need to boil your gnocchi before roasting. Roasting will create a gently browned outside with a soft, pillowy inside.

Should you cut Brussel sprouts before roasting?

I cut the larger ones in half and leave the small ones whole.