Roasted Chicken Thighs With Winter Squash

Roasted chicken thighs take center stage in this comforting winter recipe, paired with delicata squash glazed in maple syrup and butter. The vibrant mix of sage, lemon, and coriander adds a fresh twist to a classic sheet pan meal.

The interplay of flavors—sweet maple, tangy lemon, and a hint of chile spice—creates a harmony that’s both unique and satisfying. This dish transforms simple weeknight ingredients into a memorable dining experience with minimal effort.

Perfect for cozy evenings, this recipe combines rich textures and warming flavors. The caramelized squash and juicy chicken are topped with a crisp pop of scallions, ensuring every bite is layered with taste and texture.

Roasted Chicken Thighs With Winter Squash: Ingredients That Shine

• Bone-In, Skin-On Chicken Thighs: The star of this dish, offering juicy, flavorful bites with crispy golden skin.
• Delicata Squash: Naturally sweet and tender, its caramelized edges complement the savory chicken beautifully.
• Maple Syrup and Butter Glaze: A silky-sweet glaze that adds richness and balance to every bite.
• Fresh Lemon Slices: Bright and tangy, they infuse the dish with refreshing acidity.
• Sage and Coriander Seeds: Aromatic and earthy, these spices provide a warm, herbaceous undertone.

Recipe Tips

1. Perfecting the Chicken Thighs: Ensure the chicken skin is pat-dried before tossing it with the oil and spices. Dry skin helps achieve a crisp, golden finish while locking in the juices, making the chicken irresistibly tender and flavorful.
2. Optimize Squash Caramelization: Arrange the squash slices in a single layer on the baking sheet to maximize caramelization. Crowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of roasting, which prevents the rich, sweet flavor from fully developing.
3. Enhance the Lemon Flavor: Boiling the lemon slices softens their sharpness, making them a burst of bright flavor in the dish. To intensify this effect, lightly press the lemon slices against the chicken before roasting, allowing the juices to meld with the meat.

What to Serve with Roasted Chicken Thighs With Winter Squash

1. Herbed Wild Rice: The nutty flavor and fluffy texture of wild rice pair beautifully with the sweet and savory notes of the dish. Add fresh parsley or thyme for a vibrant, herbaceous touch.
2. Wilted Greens: Sautéed kale or Swiss chard with garlic provides a nutritious, slightly bitter counterpoint that balances the richness of the chicken and squash.
3. Rustic Bread: A crusty loaf of artisan bread is perfect for soaking up the maple-butter glaze and pan juices, making every bite truly indulgent.

FAQ

1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
   Yes, but bone-in thighs provide more flavor and juiciness. Adjust the cooking time, as boneless thighs cook faster.
2. What if I can’t find delicata squash?
   Acorn squash or butternut squash are excellent alternatives. Just adjust slicing thickness to ensure even cooking.
3. Can this recipe be prepared ahead?
   You can prep the chicken and glaze the squash a few hours in advance. Assemble and roast just before serving for optimal freshness.
4. How do I store leftovers?
   Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F oven to maintain crispness and flavor.

Roasted Chicken Thighs With Winter Squash

The interplay of flavors—sweet maple, tangy lemon, and a hint of chile spice—creates a harmony that’s both unique and satisfying. This dish transforms simple weeknight ingredients into a memorable dining experience with minimal effort.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 6 People

Ingredients

  

• Yield: 4 servings
• 4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs (approximately 1 ½ pounds)
• 1 delicata or acorn squash about 1 ¼ pounds, seeded and sliced into ¼-inch rings
• ½ lemon trimmed at the ends, halved lengthwise, seeds removed, and thinly sliced crosswise
• ¼ cup maple syrup
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter cubed
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
• 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 ½ teaspoons coriander seed
• 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt divided
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• Large pinch of chile powder
• ¼ cup thinly sliced scallions including white and light-green parts

Instructions

 

• Bring a small pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lemon slices and blanch for two minutes. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken thighs with the blanched lemon slices, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, chopped sage, coriander seeds, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes.
• Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
• In a small saucepan, combine the maple syrup, cubed butter, the remaining ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, and a pinch of chile powder. Heat over medium, stirring occasionally, until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth, approximately three minutes. Toss the squash slices with this glaze until evenly coated.
• Arrange the glazed squash in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish or on a large rimmed baking sheet. Nestle the marinated chicken thighs and lemon slices on top of the squash. Roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
• Meanwhile, toss the scallions with the remaining teaspoon of olive oil in a small bowl. After 15 minutes of roasting, scatter the oiled scallions over the chicken and squash. Continue roasting until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink, approximately 20 more minutes.

Notes

Remove from the oven and serve immediately, ensuring each portion includes a mix of tender chicken, caramelized squash, and vibrant scallions.

Keyword Roasted Chicken Thighs With Winter Squash