This dish features bone-in chicken roasted alongside sweet potatoes tossed in warming spices. The chicken develops crispy, golden skin, while the sweet potatoes become caramelized and tender, all infused with aromatic flavors and a vibrant, rustic appearance.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
In a small bowl, mix together the cumin, cinnamon, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper to create a fragrant spice blend.
Toss the sweet potato chunks in a bowl with one tablespoon of olive oil and half of the spice mixture until evenly coated.
Rub the chicken thighs all over with the remaining two tablespoons of olive oil, then sprinkle generously with the rest of the spice mixture, ensuring a good coating on all sides.
Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs on one side of the prepared baking sheet, skin side up, and spread the sweet potato chunks on the other side in a single layer.
Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for about 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken skin is crispy and golden, and the sweet potatoes are caramelized and tender when pierced with a fork.
Halfway through roasting, peek in to check on the chicken and sweet potatoes. If the sweet potatoes are browning too quickly, loosely cover them with foil to prevent burning while the chicken finishes crisping.
Once cooked, remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to settle, giving it a juicy, tender bite.
Serve the roasted chicken alongside the sweet potatoes, drizzling with a squeeze of lemon if desired for a fresh contrast and bright aroma.
Notes
For added flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed greens.