Chicken and Potato Bake: A Hearty, One-Pan Meal for Busy Days
Looking for a simple, yet delicious dish to serve your family? This Chicken and Potato Bake is the perfect solution. Packed with juicy chicken, tender potatoes, and savory seasonings, it’s a complete meal that requires minimal prep time. Ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this recipe combines comfort and convenience in one easy-to-make dish. Plus, it’s cooked all in one pan, making cleanup a breeze!
What is Chicken and Potato Bake?
A Chicken and Potato Bake is a hearty and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken pieces with perfectly seasoned potatoes. It’s a versatile meal that you can customize with your favorite vegetables and herbs. The dish is baked in the oven, allowing the flavors to meld together, creating a rich, flavorful experience with every bite. It’s an excellent choice for anyone seeking a filling, yet simple meal.
Ingredients for Chicken and Potato Bake
To prepare your own Chicken and Potato Bake, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
How to Make Chicken and Potato Bake
- Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures that both the chicken and potatoes cook evenly and become golden and crispy. - Prepare the Chicken and Potatoes
In a large bowl, toss the chicken thighs or breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the seasoning.
In a separate bowl, toss the potato chunks with olive oil and season them with salt, pepper, and a bit of paprika. - Arrange the Ingredients in a Baking Dish
Lay the seasoned chicken pieces in the center of a baking dish. Arrange the potatoes around the chicken in a single layer. This ensures that both the chicken and potatoes cook evenly, and the potatoes can soak up the delicious juices from the chicken. - Bake in the Oven
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. The chicken should be fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C), and the potatoes should be tender and slightly crispy on the edges. If you like a cheesy twist, you can sprinkle the grated cheese over the top of the chicken and potatoes during the last 10 minutes of baking. - Garnish and Serve
Once the dish is done, remove it from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful, comforting chicken and potato bake!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Potato Bake Recipe
- Minimal Prep Time: This dish requires little preparation, making it perfect for those days when you want a home-cooked meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
- One-Pan Wonder: With everything baked in one dish, this recipe is not only easy to make but also easy to clean up.
- Versatile: You can add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or onions to the dish for even more flavor and variety.
- Healthy and Filling: This meal is packed with lean protein from the chicken and fiber from the potatoes, making it both nutritious and satisfying.
- Kid-Friendly: The mild flavors and tender textures make this dish perfect for family dinners, even for picky eaters.
Conclusion
This Chicken and Potato Bake is the ultimate comfort food that combines simplicity and flavor in one easy-to-make dish. Perfect for busy days or relaxed evenings, it’s a meal the whole family will love. With juicy chicken, tender potatoes, and savory seasonings, every bite is a delicious experience.
So, if you’re in the mood for a no-fuss, one-pan meal, try this Chicken and Potato Bake recipe today and enjoy a satisfying, hearty dinner!