Transform your weeknight dinner routine with this incredibly flavorful and effortlessly simple Chicken and Potato Bake. This is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience waiting to happen, all within the convenience of a single pan. Imagine succulent, perfectly pan-seared chicken thighs, nestled amongst a colorful medley of fresh, vibrant vegetables, all bathed in an aromatic, zesty marinade. This dish promises a robust and utterly satisfying delight that will quickly become a cherished favorite in your home. It’s the ideal solution for those busy evenings when you crave something truly delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Our Chicken and Potato Bake is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create an explosion of flavor. Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of golden-brown, tender chicken thighs, perfectly roasted bell peppers, a subtle kick from sliced jalapeños, sweet carrots, fragrant onions, and hearty, comforting potatoes. This wholesome combination ensures a meal that is both incredibly satisfying and deeply delicious, providing all the essential nutrients in one hearty serving. It’s designed to be a fuss-free cooking experience, perfect for beginners and seasoned home cooks alike, ensuring a foolproof path to a delightful dinner every time.
If you’re looking to explore more delightful chicken recipes that are equally easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, we highly recommend trying our Creamy Sundried Tomato Chicken Thighs for a rich and comforting option, or spice things up with our dynamic BBQ Teriyaki Chicken Skewers. Each recipe is crafted to bring joy to your dinner table with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Adore This Chicken and Potato Bake
This isn’t just another dinner recipe; it’s a culinary triumph designed for ease and maximum enjoyment. Here’s why this Chicken and Potato Bake will earn a permanent spot in your recipe collection:
- Unbelievably Succulent Chicken: We start by pan-searing the chicken thighs to create a beautiful golden crust and lock in all their natural juices. This crucial step ensures that every piece of chicken remains incredibly tender and moist as it finishes baking to perfection in the oven, delivering a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- A Perfectly Balanced One-Pan Meal: Say goodbye to juggling multiple pots and pans! This recipe ingeniously combines protein-rich chicken, wholesome potatoes, and a vibrant assortment of fresh vegetables into a single, cohesive dish. It’s a complete and satisfying meal that requires minimal cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Irresistible Homemade Marinade: The secret to this dish’s extraordinary flavor lies in its homemade marinade. Crafted with zesty lime or lemon, aromatic herbs like cilantro and oregano, and a hint of spice, this marinade infuses the chicken and vegetables with a depth of flavor that is both bright and comforting. It’s the element that elevates this simple bake to gourmet status.
- Effortless Preparation: From marinating to baking, each step of this recipe is straightforward and designed for simplicity. Even novice cooks can achieve fantastic results, making it a stress-free option for any day of the week.
- Customizable to Your Liking: This bake is incredibly versatile! You can easily swap out vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have in your fridge, adjust the spice level to your preference, or even add different herbs. It’s a flexible recipe that encourages creativity and caters to various tastes.
- Family-Friendly Comfort Food: The hearty combination of chicken, potatoes, and vegetables, all seasoned with a comforting marinade, makes this a dish that everyone at the table will love. It’s wholesome, satisfying, and reminiscent of home-cooked goodness.
Essential Ingredients for Your Chicken and Potato Bake
Creating this magnificent one-pan meal starts with selecting fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the dish’s rich flavor profile and comforting texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken Thighs: We recommend bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for their incredible flavor and moisture retention. They crisp up beautifully during searing and stay tender while baking. If you prefer, boneless, skinless thighs or even chicken breasts can be used, though cooking times may vary.
- Potatoes: For this recipe, we achieved fantastic results with Dynamic Duo Creamer Potatoes. Their small size and thin skin mean no peeling is required, saving you prep time. You can also use baby Yukon golds, red potatoes, or even fingerlings, cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Mini Bell Peppers: A mix of colorful mini bell peppers (red, yellow, orange) adds sweetness, vibrant color, and essential vitamins. Larger bell peppers can be used, simply cut them into strips or chunks.
- Jalapeño Peppers: These add a fantastic layer of subtle heat and a fresh, peppery aroma. For less heat, remove the seeds and ribs. For more spice, leave them in or add an extra jalapeño.
- Carrots: Sweet and earthy carrots, peeled and cut into strips, provide depth of flavor and a lovely texture contrast against the other vegetables.
- Onion: A large onion, sliced, caramelizes beautifully during baking, adding a foundational layer of sweetness and savory aroma to the dish.
- Olive Oil: Essential for pan-searing the chicken and coating the vegetables, ensuring everything cooks evenly and develops a rich flavor. Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.
- Chicken Broth: A splash of chicken broth in the pan helps create a flavorful liquid base, keeping the chicken and vegetables moist and preventing them from drying out in the oven.
- The Star Marinade: This homemade blend is what truly makes the dish sing!
- **Lime/Lemons:** Freshly squeezed lime or lemon juice provides a crucial bright and zesty tang that cuts through the richness of the chicken and elevates all the flavors.
- **Olive Oil:** Forms the base of the marinade, helping to tenderize the chicken and distribute the dry seasonings.
- **Cilantro:** Dried cilantro offers a fresh, herbaceous note that pairs wonderfully with the citrus. Fresh cilantro can also be chopped and added for an even brighter flavor.
- **Oregano:** Dried oregano brings a classic Mediterranean, earthy aroma that complements chicken and vegetables beautifully.
- **Onion Powder:** Enhances the savory depth of the marinade, providing concentrated onion flavor.
- **Salt & Pepper:** Essential seasonings to bring out the best in all the ingredients. Adjust to your taste.
- **Paprika:** Adds a warm, smoky, and slightly sweet flavor, along with a beautiful reddish hue to the chicken.
Crafting Your Delicious Chicken and Potato Bake: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps to bring this sensational one-pan meal to life. The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward process and incredible flavor payoff.
- Prepare and Marinate the Chicken: Begin by thoroughly mixing all the marinade ingredients in a large bowl. Ensure your chicken thighs are trimmed of any excess fat. Add the chicken to the marinade, coating each piece generously. While a quick dip is fine, allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour in the refrigerator, will significantly enhance the flavor and tenderness. This step is key to infusing the chicken with our signature zesty and herby notes.
- Pan-Sear the Chicken for Golden Perfection: Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, carefully place the marinated chicken thighs, skin-side down, into the skillet. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. This searing step is crucial for locking in juices and adding a rich, roasted flavor that baking alone can’t achieve. Once seared, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside in a clean bowl.
- Assemble and Bake: In the same skillet (no need to clean it, those browned bits add flavor!), arrange the sliced onions at the bottom, creating a fragrant bed for the other ingredients. Then, artfully layer the seared chicken thighs on top of the onions. Distribute the bell peppers, jalapeños, carrots, and potatoes evenly around and under the chicken. Pour in the chicken broth and any remaining marinade from the bowl over the ingredients. Lightly spray the top of the dish with a little extra olive oil for added crispness.
- Bake to Tender Perfection: Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. The vegetables should be tender and slightly caramelized.
- Rest, Garnish, and Serve: Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven and loosely cover it with foil. Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices in the chicken to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness and flavor. Garnish with fresh lemon or lime wedges and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy this incredible one-pan delight!
Expert Recipe Notes and Tips for Success
Achieving a perfect Chicken and Potato Bake every time is easy with these helpful tips and tricks. These insights will ensure your meal is not only delicious but also cooked to perfection, adapting to your preferences and available ingredients.
- Always Preheat Your Oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to the specified temperature (400°F / 200°C) before placing the skillet inside. This is crucial for even cooking and achieving that lovely caramelized exterior on your chicken and vegetables.
- Utilize an Oven-Safe Skillet: The convenience of a one-pan meal hinges on using the right equipment. A sturdy, oven-safe skillet (like cast iron or stainless steel) allows you to seamlessly transition from stovetop searing to oven baking, minimizing cleanup.
- Check for Doneness: The chicken is fully cooked when its internal temperature, measured at the thickest part (without touching bone), reaches at least 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend for food safety and ensuring perfectly cooked, juicy chicken.
- Trim Excess Fat: Before marinating, take a moment to trim any excessive fat from the chicken thighs. This helps reduce greasiness and allows the skin to crisp up more effectively during searing and baking.
- Marination Time Flexibility: While marinating for 30 minutes to an hour truly enhances the flavor depth, if you’re short on time, a quick dip and toss in the marinade before searing will still yield a delicious result.
- Control Jalapeño Heat: For a milder flavor, slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise and carefully scrape out the seeds and white ribs before dicing or slicing. For a spicier kick, leave them intact!
- Amplify the Spice: If you love heat, feel free to sprinkle in some red chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper with the marinade ingredients. A dash of hot sauce before serving can also add a fiery finish.
- Make it Saucy: For those who prefer a more luscious, saucy dish, consider adding a can of crushed tomatoes (undrained) to the skillet along with the chicken broth. It adds a wonderful tang and richness.
- Vegetable Versatility: This recipe is incredibly adaptable! Don’t hesitate to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Broccoli florets, zucchini chunks, asparagus spears, sweet potatoes, or even mushrooms can be fantastic additions. Remember to adjust cooking times for quicker-cooking vegetables (see FAQ).
- Garnish for Freshness: A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice and a scattering of freshly chopped herbs (like parsley, cilantro, or chives) just before serving adds a burst of freshness and brightens the overall flavor profile.
- Storage and Reheating: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish is excellent for meal prepping. Cook a large batch and portion it out for delicious, healthy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken and Potato Bake
Here are some common questions to help you master this delicious and versatile one-pan meal:
Can I use other vegetables in this bake?
Absolutely, this is one of the most versatile one-pot meals you’ll encounter! It’s an excellent way to use up whatever fresh produce you have in your fridge. For quick-roasting vegetables like asparagus spears, zucchini chunks, or cherry tomatoes, add them to the pan during the last 15-20 minutes of baking time to prevent them from becoming overcooked and mushy. If you’re using frozen peas, stir them in during the final 5 minutes of baking, allowing them just enough time to heat through. Other great additions include broccoli florets, cauliflower, or even chunks of sweet potato for a different flavor profile.
What can I serve with this Chicken and Potato Bake?
This Chicken and Potato Bake is a wonderfully wholesome and hearty meal that is perfectly balanced and incredibly filling on its own. However, if you’re looking to expand your feast, it pairs beautifully with a variety of simple sides that complement its robust flavors. Here are some fantastic ideas:
- Wilted Spinach: A quick side of gently wilted spinach provides a light, nutritious, and earthy contrast.
- Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli florets add a fresh, green element and extra vitamins without competing with the main dish.
- Roasted Garlic Mushrooms: Earthy, savory roasted mushrooms with garlic would enhance the overall umami flavor of the meal.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: For a touch of indulgent comfort, a side of warm, gooey cheesy garlic bread is always a crowd-plepleaser.
- Easy Mashed Sweet Potatoes: A creamy and slightly sweet side of mashed sweet potatoes offers a lovely textural and flavor contrast.
- A Simple Green Salad: A fresh, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing counterpoint to the rich baked dish.
What equipment should I use to cook this recipe?
The best and most convenient option for this one-pan meal is a large, oven-safe skillet. A cast-iron skillet or a sturdy stainless steel pan with an oven-safe handle (check manufacturer instructions for temperature limits) allows you to sear the chicken on the stovetop and then transfer the entire dish directly to the oven for baking. This approach minimizes washing up and maximizes flavor as all the delicious fond from searing stays in the pan.
If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, don’t worry! You still have options. You could use a Dutch oven, which is typically oven-safe and performs similarly to a deep skillet. Alternatively, you can pan-sear your chicken thighs on the stovetop in a regular skillet, then transfer all your ingredients—the seared chicken, vegetables, broth, and marinade—to an oven-safe baking dish or casserole dish to finish baking. While it adds an extra dish to wash, the results will still be equally delicious.
Explore More Delicious Chicken Recipes
If you’ve enjoyed the simplicity and incredible flavor of this Chicken and Potato Bake, you’ll love these other fantastic chicken recipes that are sure to impress:
- Sheet Pan Chicken Fajita Bake: Experience all the vibrant flavors of fajitas in an easy-to-make sheet pan version, perfect for a quick and lively dinner.
- Best Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe: A classic comfort food reinvented for easy baking, featuring crispy chicken, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese.
- Zesty Mexican Chicken Tacos: Whip up these flavorful tacos for a fun, customizable meal that’s great for gatherings or a casual weeknight.
- Bruschetta Stuffed Chicken Recipe: Elegant yet simple, this dish features chicken breasts stuffed with fresh bruschetta ingredients, offering a burst of Mediterranean flavor.
We hope you enjoy all the recipes we share with you, including this incredibly satisfying Chicken and Potato Bake. It’s a dish designed to bring joy and ease to your kitchen. We encourage you to try it, savor every bite, rate it, and share your delightful culinary creations with your friends and family!
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Chicken and Potato Bake
Mariam Ezzeddine
15 minutes
45 minutes
1 hour
6
servings
Ingredients
-
6
large
chicken thighs -
1
lb.
dynamic duo creamer potatoes,
the little potato company brand -
2
large
carrots,
peel and cut into strips -
6
mini
bell peppers,
multi-colored -
2
pieces
jalapeño peppers,
sliced -
1
tbsp.
olive oil -
1
cup
chicken broth -
1
large
onion,
sliced
Marinade
-
3
large
lime or 2 lemons,
juiced (about 3/4 cup) -
2
tbsps.
olive oil -
1
tbsp.
cilantro,
dry -
1/2
tsp.
oregano,
dried -
1
tsp.
onion powder -
2
tsps.
black pepper,
freshly cracked -
1
tsp.
salt -
1
tsp.
paprika
Instructions
- Pre-heat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200°C).
- Slice the peeled carrots, jalapeños, and onion. Set aside.
- Trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs. In a large bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients and add the chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is well coated. If time permits, marinate for 30 minutes to an hour for enhanced flavor, though it’s not strictly required.
- Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, carefully pan-sear the chicken thighs until golden brown on each side, about 5 minutes per side. Transfer the seared chicken to the bowl where they were marinated or a new clean bowl.
- In the same skillet, create a layer by lining the bottom with the sliced onions. Place the seared chicken thighs directly on top of the onions. Then, add the bell peppers, jalapeños, carrots, potatoes, chicken broth, and any remaining marinade left in the bowl around the chicken.
- Lightly spray the top of the dish with some olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the skillet from the oven and loosely cover it with foil. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with lemon or lime wedges and fresh herbs for an added touch of freshness.
Notes
- Use a preheated oven.
- Make sure you use an oven-safe skillet.
- The chicken is done when it reads at least 165 F (74°C) on an internal meat thermometer.
- Trim any excess fat off the chicken thighs before marinating.
- You can marinate the chicken thighs for 30 mins to an hour or you can just give them a quick dip!
- If you want your jalapeños to have less heat, remove the seeds and ribs.
- If you want some more spice in this dish, add some chili flakes or a sprinkle of cayenne.
- You can add a can of crushed tomatoes, to make the dish more saucy if you like!
- Feel free to mix up the veggies – great for using up what you have in the fridge!
- Garnish with lemon or lime wedges and some herbs.
Nutrition
Calories:
415
kcal
|
Carbohydrates:
25
g
|
Protein:
22
g
|
Fat:
27
g
|
Saturated Fat:
6
g
|
Cholesterol:
111
mg
|
Sodium:
584
mg
|
Potassium:
856
mg
|
Fiber:
5
g
|
Sugar:
5
g
|
Vitamin A:
4721
IU
|
Vitamin C:
44
mg
|
Calcium:
66
mg
|
Iron:
2
mg
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