Looking for an easy, affordable meal that tastes like fall? This one-pan recipe uses common pantry staples and offers simple swaps, so you can make it no matter what ingredients you have on hand. Everything roasts together on one pan for a cozy, flavorful dinner with almost no cleanup.
Serves: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
1 ½ pounds chicken thighs or drumstick
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
2 cups brussels sprouts, halved
1 red onion, sliced into wedges
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 tablespoon vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a large baking sheet with foil or parchment for easy cleanup.
- In a small bowl, whisk together oil, mustard, maple syrup, vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place vegetables on the baking sheet. Drizzle with half the dressing and toss to coat.
- Add chicken pieces to the pan and brush or spoon the rest of the dressing over the top.
- Roast for 30–40 minutes, stirring vegetables halfway through, until the chicken is fully cooked (165°F internally) and vegetables are tender and golden.
- Optional: sprinkle with a little fresh parsley or dried herbs before serving.
Missing an Ingredient? Try These Swaps!
Don’t worry if you don’t have everything on hand — this recipe works great with substitutions.
- Chicken: Use any cut of chicken — thighs, drumsticks, or even breasts. Bone-in pieces are usually more affordable and flavorful.
- Sweet Potatoes: Swap with white potatoes, carrots, or any type of winter squash.
- Brussels Sprouts: Use broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, or even frozen vegetables.
- Red Onion: Yellow or white onions work just as well — or skip it if you don’t have any.
- Maple Syrup: Substitute with honey, brown sugar, or a drizzle of pancake syrup.
- Dijon Mustard: Yellow mustard or spicy brown mustard both work.
- Vinegar: Any kind will do — apple cider, white, or even lemon juice if that’s what’s available.
- Oil: Vegetable, canola, olive, or any neutral cooking oil will work fine.