Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just one pan and a handful of ingredients, this dish comes together effortlessly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful and Filling: The combination of well-seasoned chicken and crispy potatoes offers a classic comfort food experience that is both delicious and satisfying.
- Customizable: You can easily add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings to suit your family’s preferences.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 4 medium potatoes, diced into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Season the Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the diced potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. Spread the seasoned potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the Chicken: Brush the chicken breasts with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with a sprinkle of salt, black pepper, and a dash of paprika. Place the chicken on top of the potatoes in the baking dish.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes (if using), and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the potatoes are golden and tender.
- Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Pair with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45–50 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
Variations
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to add more variety and nutrition to the dish.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a bit of heat.
- Herb Substitutions: Feel free to substitute the dried herbs with fresh ones if available; just remember to adjust the quantities accordingly.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, bone-in chicken pieces can be used; however, the cooking time may need to be adjusted to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
How can I make the potatoes crispier?
To achieve crispier potatoes, you can toss them halfway through baking to ensure even browning. Additionally, using a higher oven temperature or broiling for a few minutes at the end can help.
Is it necessary to cover the dish with foil during baking?
Covering the dish with foil helps to retain moisture, ensuring the chicken remains tender. Removing the foil later allows the potatoes to crisp up.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can season the chicken and potatoes in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, assemble the dish and bake as directed.
What other cheeses can I use besides cheddar?
Other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites can be used to top the dish.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be substituted for regular potatoes for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that sweet potatoes may cook slightly faster.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to check.
Can I add a sauce to this dish?
Drizzling the finished dish with garlic butter, ranch dressing, or honey mustard can add extra flavor.
What side dishes pair well with this bake?
A fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread complement this dish nicely.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make this dish dairy-free, omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Ensure that any additional toppings or sides are also dairy-free.
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Chicken and Potato Bake
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Chicken and Potato Bake is a one-pan comfort food classic featuring tender, juicy chicken breasts baked over golden, seasoned potatoes. Simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, this hearty dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 4 medium potatoes, diced into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat and Prep:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Season the Potatoes:
- In a large bowl, toss diced potatoes with 1 tbsp olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Prepare the Chicken:
- Brush the chicken breasts with the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and a dash of paprika. Place the chicken on top of the potatoes.
Bake:
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the potatoes (if using), and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the potatoes are golden and tender.
Rest and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve. Pair with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Crispier Potatoes: Toss the potatoes halfway through baking or broil for the last 2–3 minutes for extra crispness.
- Make Ahead: Season the chicken and potatoes in advance, store in the refrigerator, and assemble just before baking.
- Cheese Substitutions: Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan for a different flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45–50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American