- 2 TBS butter
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp sweet paprika
- 1/2 pound new potatoes, unpeeled and quartered into wedges
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 pound asparagus, washed trimmed and cut into pieces
- 4 tsp honey
- 1/2 lemon, thinly sliced (Plus additional wedges for squeezing, optional)
- a few sprigs of fresh thyme
Butter (2 TBS) Butter is used in two stages. One, it coats and flavors the potatoes and two, it helps to season the chicken. It adds a special richness and helps everything to brown nicely.
Salt & Black Pepper (½ tsp + ¼ tsp) This is divided between both the potatoes and the chicken, giving flavor to both.
Garlic Powder (¼ tsp) Fresh garlic can burn at high temperatures. Using garlic powder allows you to add flavour without that risk.
Sweet Paprika (¼ tsp) Paprika adds warm color and a soft, gentle sweetness, that is in no way overpowering.
New Potatoes (½ pound, unpeeled, quartered) New potatoes have a thin skin which crisps beautifully. Keeping them unpeeled adds a lovely texture to the dish and nice flavor. They take slightly longer than chicken to cook, so adding them early ensures a golden and tender finish with crisp edges.
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs (4) I recommend using thighs as they tend to stay juicier and are more apt to stay tender during roasting. I open them up to help them cook evenly and help them to absorb all the flavors well.
Asparagus (½ pound, trimmed and cut) Added in the last five minutes so it cooks quickly and stays bright, crisp‑tender, and vibrant.
Honey (4 tsp) Brushed over each chicken thigh to create a glossy, lightly caramelized finish. It balances the lemon’s acidity and pairs beautifully with thyme. Lemon and thyme are beautiful partners.
Lemon (½, thinly sliced) This adds a lovely bright flavour to the chicken. Placed on top it tends to melt down into the meat giving it even more flavor. I recommend serving extra wedges with the chicken when you serve your meal.
Fresh Thyme (a few sprigs) I love fresh herbs and the earthy flavor they bring to any dish. You can of course use dry thyme if you don't have fresh, but if you have it, I always recommend using fresh.
- Preheat the oven to 425*F/ 220*C/gas mark 7. Line a baking tray with sides with aluminum foil and spray the foil lightly with low fat cooking spray. (You could also use a sheet of baking parchment.)
- Melt 1 TBS of the butter in a bowl in the microwave. (This will take anywhere between 15 to 25 seconds. Don't burn the butter. Use a bowl large enough to hold your potatoes.)
- Add your potatoes to the melted butter along with the 1/4 tsp each of the salt & pepper, the garlic powder and paprika. Coat them in the mixture. (I just give them a stir around with my hand, making sure to get it everywhere.)
- Spread out on the baking sheet, skin sides down, in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes. (This ensures a nice and crispy potato.)
- Melt the remaining butter in the same bowl in the microwave. (Less washing up. Again, it will only take between 15 to 25 seconds.)
- Add the chicken pieces, along with the remaining salt and pepper. (Give them a good stir to coat in the butter.)
- Lay them out amongst the potatoes, opening up the chicken. (I like to make sure my chicken is well trimmed of any fat.)
- Spread 1 tsp of honey over each piece of chicken. Top each with a sprig of thyme. Top with a lemon slice. Scatter any remaining thyme over the vegetables. (You can just drizzle the honey on with a spoon and spread it out with the back of the spoon.)
- Roast for a further 20 to 25 minutes, adding the asparagus cuts for the last five minutes or so, until the chicken juices run clear when pierced with a fork in the thickest part, and the asparagus is cooked. (You can add the asparagus sooner if you wish. I like mine to be crispy tender.)
- Divide the chicken and vegetables between two heated dinner plates and serve with a wedge of lemon for squeezing, if desired.
This is a complete meal in and of itself. You could add a tossed salad or some crusty bread for mopping up all of those delicious juices if you wanted to.
Choose the right pan size A half‑sheet pan (about 13x18 inches) gives ingredients room to spread out so they roast instead of steam. Do not crowd your pan. Crowding causes the dish to steam rather than roast.
Line your pan for easy cleanup I like to line my pans for easier clean up. You can use either parchment or foil. If you have any type of sticky marinade, this is a life savor. No fuss. No muss. Easy cleanup.
Use high heat for great colour Roasting at a higher temperature will give you a much nicer color, additional crispness to vegetables or meats where this is wanted.
Start with ingredients that take longest Time everything and place onto the baking sheet by placing the ingredients which will take the longest to cook on first and quicker cooking ingredients later on in the cooking process. This way everything will finish cooking at the same time.
Don’t skip the oil or butter You may be tempted to leave out any oil or butter, but don't. Even a light coating can help your ingredients to crisp up and will help to prevent sticking. If you have added seasonings, it also helps to carry the flavor all over.
Season in layers Season the vegetables, season the meat, and finish with a sprinkle of salt and pepper before serving. Layered seasoning = deeper flavour. Don't be tempted to flavor everything all together at once.
Use fresh herbs wisely Hardy herbs like thyme or rosemary can roast right on the pan. Delicate herbs like parsley or basil should be added after cooking for brightness.
Add a finishing touch A squeeze of lemon, a drizzle of balsamic, or a scattering of fresh herbs can transform a simple sheet‑pan supper into something special. I am a fan of Balsamic vinegars. They are real flavor boosters when used in the right proportions.
Let the pan rest for a few minutes Resting helps juices settle and makes serving easier — especially with chicken or pork.
Experiment with combinations Sheet‑pan cooking is wonderfully flexible. Mix and match proteins, vegetables, and seasonings to create endless variations.
Simple Lemon & Herb Chicken
I love sheet pan dinners. Not only are they fairly simple to create and delicious, but they are pretty much no fuss no muss with very little clean up afterwards, especially if you line your baking sheet with aluminium foil.
Ingredients
- 2 TBS butter
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp sweet paprika
- 1/2 pound new potatoes, unpeeled and quartered into wedges
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 pound asparagus, washed trimmed and cut into pieces
- 4 tsp honey
- 1/2 lemon, thinly sliced (Plus additional wedges for squeezing, optional)
- a few sprigs of fresh thyme
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425*F/ 220*C/gas mark 7. Line a baking tray with sides with aluminum foil and spray the foil lightly with low fat cooking spray.
- Melt 1 TBS of the butter in a bowl in the microwave.
- Add your potatoes to the melted butter along with the 1/4 tsp each of the salt & pepper, the garlic powder and paprika. Coat them in the mixture.
- Spread out on the baking sheet, skin sides down, in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Melt the remaining butter in the same bowl in the microwave.
- Add the chicken pieces, along with the remaining salt and pepper.
- Lay them out amongst the potatoes, opening up the chicken.
- Spread 1 tsp of honey over each piece of chicken. Top each with a sprig of thyme. Top with a lemon slice. Scatter any remaining thyme over the vegetables.
- Roast for a further 20 to 25 minutes, adding the asparagus cuts for the last five minutes or so, until the chicken juices run clear when pierced with a fork in the thickest part, and the asparagus is cooked.
- Divide the chicken and vegetables between two heated dinner plates and serve with a wedge of lemon for squeezing, if desired.
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Ingredients are easily varied to accommodate your own tastes and/or to multiply to feed more than just two people.
- 1/4 cup (57g) butter, at room temperature
- 2 TBS grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 slices of bakery white bread
- 2 slices of American processed cheese
- 1/2 cup (56g) grated strong cheddar cheese
- 2 TBS garlic and herb cheese spread
- I used salted butter as that is all I have in my house. Do make sure it is at room temperature for easier mixing and spreading.
- Grate your own Parmesan cheese if you can. I used the smallest holes on my box grater, not too fine. This way the cheese shows up in the finished sandwich.
- I used some of the white bread that we had got at Pelton's at the weekend.
- I used Kraft Extra Cheddar Processed Cheese slices.
- I used a good quality British Strong White Cheddar. Again, grate it yourself if possible.
- I used Boursin Herb and Garlic Cheese. Make sure it is at room temperature for easier spreading.
- Preheat your oven to 450*F/230*C/ gas mark 7. Have ready a quarter sheet pan. (9 by 15 inches.) (For a crispy head start, put the sheet pan in the oven to preheat while you are preheating the oven.)
- Mix your butter and parmesan cheese together until smooth. Spread a portion on this on one side of each slice of bread. Place two slices buttered side down on the baking sheet. (I used a spoon to mash the cheese and butter together. If your butter is at room temperature this is much easier.)
- Top each of the slices of bread on the baking sheet with one slice of processed cheese and then half of the grated cheddar. (Be careful not to burn yourself if you have preheated the baking sheet.)
- Spread the garlic and herb cheese onto the unbuttered side of the remaining slices of bread and then place garlic and herb cheese side down (butter side up) on top of the cheese covered slices of bread on the baking sheet. (Spreading the garlic and herb cheese was the most difficult bit. I highly recommend having it at room temperature as well.)
- Bake in the preheated oven for 5 minutes, then flip over and bake for a further 5 to 6 minutes until the sandwich is well toasted and the cheese has melted inside.
- Serve immediately.
- The thicker the bread, the better. Use thick-cut white bread to ensure a sturdy and crispy sandwich.
- Be generous! Spread the softened butter generously on each slice of bread, reaching all the edges for even browning.
- Make it crispy by placing the baking sheet in the oven as it preheats. Then, carefully build the grilled cheese on the hot tray. This guarantees crispy bread.
- Oven placement is key. Bake on the bottom rack to ensure the bread gets evenly toasted and the cheese melts perfectly.
- Baking sheet size. If you have a large enough baking sheet, place all 4 slices of bread, butter side down, on the tray and divide the cheese between them. Bake until golden and melty, then carefully sandwich them together.
- Take a shortcut. Use pre-sliced cheese for convenience. Layer slices of processed cheese and cheddar if you prefer not to grate the cheese.
- Experiment with add-ins. For extra flavor, customize your sandwiches with add-ins like sliced tomatoes, bacon, caramelized onions, or avocado.
- Make it a meal. Pair your grilled cheese with tomato soup, a fresh salad, or crispy fries for a complete and satisfying meal.

Sheet Pan Grilled Cheese for Two
Crisp on the outside, with a lovely cheesy filling and coating. This delicious sandwich is a real winner and very easily done! See notes for air fryer instructions.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup (57g) butter, at room temperature
- 2 TBS grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 slices of bakery white bread
- 2 slices of American processed cheese
- 1/2 cup (56g) grated strong cheddar cheese
- 2 TBS garlic and herb cheese spread
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450*F/230*C/ gas mark 7. Have ready a quarter sheet pan. (9 by 15 inches.)
- Mix your butter and parmesan cheese together until smooth. Spread a portion on this on one side of each slice of bread. Place two slices buttered side down on the baking sheet.
- Top each of the slices of bread on the baking sheet with one slice of processed cheese and then half of the grated cheddar.
- Spread the garlic and herb cheese onto the unbuttered side of the remaining slices of bread and then place garlic and herb cheese side down (butter side up) on top of the cheese covered slices of bread on the baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 5 minutes, then flip over and bake for a further 5 to 6 minutes until the sandwich is well toasted and the cheese has melted inside.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
To air fry this sandwich, preheat your air fryer to 360*F/185*C. Place the sandwich in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 5 minutes. Flip over and air fry for an additional 5 to 7 minutes until golden brown and the cheese has melted. Repeat for the other sandwich.
Did you make this recipe?
This content, written and photography, is the sole property of The English Kitchen. Any reposting or misuse is not permitted. If you are reading this elsewhere, please know that it is stolen content and you may report it to me at mariealicejoan at aol dot com.
Sheet Pan Parmesan Turkey Tenders & Asparagus — A Fresh, Easy Dinner for Busy Days
Tuesday, 24 March 2026
If you’re looking for a quick, wholesome meal that still feels a little bit special, these Sheet Pan Parmesan Turkey Tenders & Asparagus are exactly the kind of recipe you’ll want in your weeknight rotation. Tender strips of turkey are coated in a savoury Parmesan crumb, roasted until golden, and paired with bright, crisp‑tender asparagus — all on one pan, all with minimal cleanup.
It’s simple, it’s fresh, and it’s the kind of dinner that makes eating well feel effortless. The turkey stays juicy, the coating gets beautifully crisp, and the asparagus roasts to perfection right alongside it. Add a squeeze of lemon and you’ve got a meal that’s light, flavourful, and ready in no time.
Whether you’re cooking for two or just want something easy and satisfying after a long day, this sheet pan supper delivers every time.
- 11 ounces (300g) Turkey tenderloins, trimmed (see instructions)
- 1/3 cup (40g) seasoned panko crumbs
- 1/3 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 medium egg, beaten
- non-stick cooking spray
- 1 TBS chopped spring onions
- 1/2 pound (8 ounces/227g) fresh asparagus
- 1 tsp light olive oil
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1 TBS finely chopped spring onions
- Preheat the oven to 400*F/200*C/gas mark 6. Line a large baking tray with some baking parchment. Spray lightly with the cooking spray. (Cooking spray will prevent anything from sticking.)
- Whisk the bread crumbs, cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder together in a shallow bowl. Whisk the egg in another shallow bowl. (I used shallow pasta bowls.)
- To prepare the turkey, remove the tendon from the fillets and discard. Cut each tenderloin into three pieces on the diagonal. (There is an excellent video on how to do that here. It works for both turkey or chicken.)
- Working with one piece at a time, dip it into the beaten egg and then the panko mixture to coat. (I use my hands to pat the crumb mixture onto the meat and help it adhere better.)
- Lay on the baking sheet in a single layer. Spritz lightly with some cooking spray and then sprinkle with the spring onions. (The cooking spray will help to crisp up the crumbs nicely.)
- Bake for 15 minutes. While you are baking them get the asparagus ready.
- Trim any woody ends from the asparagus. Place into a zip lock baggie with the oil, salt, pepper and garlic powder. Give them a good shake to coat. (I used a medium bag. You can also do this in a large bowl.)
- At the end of 15 minutes remove the baking tray from the oven. Carefully turn over the turkey pieces. Spritz with a bit more cooking spray.
- Arrange the asparagus spears between the turkey pieces on the baking tray.
- Return the tray to the oven and roast for a further 15 minutes. The turkey fillets should be completely cooked through and the asparagus should be crispy tender. (The interior temperature of the turkey should read at 165*F/74*C.)
- Leave to rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes before scattering with the remaining spring onions and serving.
- Read through the recipe several times before beginning so as to familiarize yourself with everything.
- Assemble all of your ingredients before you begin. That way there is less risk of you leaving anything out by accident.
- Make sure all of your turkey pieces are of a similar thickness and size so that they cook in roughly the same time.
- Apply the same rule to any vegetables you are cooking, making sure they are of a similar thickness and size.
- Grate your own cheese. They add fillers to grated cheese products (such as cellulose which is wood fiber) to help them flow better. Grating your own cheese is always a better idea.
- Do not over season. The cheese will be salty.

Sheet Pan Parmesan Turkey Tenders & Asparagus
Tender and juicy turkey tenders, baked to perfection with a Panko and Parmesan crust, along side of deliciously roasted asparagus. What's not to love!
Ingredients
- 11 ounces (300g) Turkey tenderloins, trimmed (see instructions)
- 1/3 cup (40g) seasoned panko crumbs
- 1/3 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 medium egg, beaten
- non-stick cooking spray
- 1 TBS chopped spring onions
- 1/2 pound (8 ounces/227g) fresh asparagus
- 1 tsp light olive oil
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1 TBS finely chopped spring onions
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400*F/200*C/gas mark 6. Line a large baking tray with some baking parchment. Spray lightly with the cooking spray.
- Whisk the bread crumbs, cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder together in a shallow bowl. Whisk the egg in another shallow bowl.
- To prepare the turkey, remove the tendon from the fillets and discard. Cut each tenderloin into three pieces on the diagonal.
- Working with one piece at a time, dip it into the beaten egg and then the panko mixture to coat.
- Lay on the baking sheet in a single layer. Spritz lightly with some cooking spray and then sprinkle with the spring onions.
- Bake for 15 minutes. While you are baking them get the asparagus ready.
- Trim any woody ends from the asparagus. Place into a zip lock baggie with the oil, salt, pepper and garlic powder. Give them a good shake to coat.
- At the end of 15 minutes remove the baking tray from the oven. Carefully turn over the turkey pieces. Spritz with a bit more cooking spray.
- Arrange the asparagus spears between the turkey pieces on the baking tray.
- Return the tray to the oven and roast for a further 15 minutes. The turkey fillets should be completely cooked through and the asparagus should be crispy tender. (The interior temperature of the turkey should read at 165*F/74*C.)
- Leave to rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes before scattering with the remaining spring onions and serving.
Did you make this recipe?
This content, written and photography, is the sole property of The English Kitchen. Any reposting or misuse is not permitted. If you are reading this elsewhere, please know that it is stolen content and you may report it to me at mariealicejoan at aol dot com.


















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