Easy One Dish Chicken Bake Recipe - Delicious!
This comforting weeknight dinner features tender chicken and complementary vegetables baked together in a single pan. The dish offers a harmonious blend of savory flavors, enhanced by simple seasonings and the natural juices released during cooking, resulting in a fuss-free meal with minimal cleanup.
Equipment
- The successful preparation of a chicken bake relies on a few essential tools. These tools ensure proper cooking, safe handling of ingredients, and efficient cleanup. The items include:
- Baking Dish: A 9x13 inch baking dish is ideal for accommodating the ingredients and promoting even heat distribution.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board is essential for safely preparing vegetables and cutting the chicken.
- Chef's Knife: A sharp chef's knife enables efficient chopping and slicing of ingredients.
- Mixing Spoon or Spatula: Used for tossing the ingredients and ensuring even coating with oil and seasonings.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measuring tools guarantee the correct proportions of ingredients.
- Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer is crucial for verifying that the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165F (74C).
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 pound red potatoes, quartered
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400F (200C). Ensuring the oven is properly preheated allows for even cooking and optimal browning.
- Step 2: Prepare Ingredients: Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and prepare all vegetables. This will save time when assembling the dish.
- Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Baking Dish: In a large baking dish, gently toss together the chicken, potatoes, onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Combining all ingredients in one dish will help infuse the flavors.
- Step 4: Season and Oil: Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and vegetables. Season with rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together to ensure even coating.
- Step 5: Add Chicken Broth: Pour the chicken broth into the baking dish. The broth will add moisture and flavor during cooking.
- Step 6: Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Internal temperature of chicken should reach 165F (74C).
- Step 7: Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a burst of freshness and visual appeal before serving. Optional Tips: For a richer flavor, brown the chicken in a skillet before baking. Substitute any vegetables based on preference or availability. Add a squeeze of lemon juice after baking for extra brightness.
Notes
Variations
The adaptability of the chicken bake lends itself to numerous variations, accommodating diverse preferences and dietary needs. These variations range from ingredient substitutions to regional flavor profiles.
- Ingredient Swaps: Vegetables can be tailored to personal tastes or seasonal availability. Broccoli, cauliflower, bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans serve as excellent alternatives or additions. For a heartier dish, consider incorporating sausage, chorizo, or chickpeas.
- Regional Twists: A Mediterranean twist involves incorporating feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and oregano. A Southwestern-inspired variation features corn, black beans, chili powder, and a topping of shredded cheddar cheese. Asian flavors can be introduced with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
- Dietary Adjustments: For a gluten-free option, verify that the chicken broth is gluten-free and avoid any gluten-containing thickeners. A dairy-free version can be achieved by omitting cheese or using dairy-free cheese alternatives. To reduce sodium, use low-sodium chicken broth and carefully monitor salt additions. A low-carb version can focus on non-starchy vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
The chicken bake offers versatility in serving options, suitable for both casual family dinners and more formal gatherings. It is best served hot, straight from the oven, to ensure optimal flavor and texture.
- Serve the chicken bake alongside a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- Accompany the dish with crusty bread or rolls for soaking up the flavorful pan juices.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley, thyme, or chives, for added visual appeal and aromatic enhancement.
- Consider serving it as a main course for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or casual get-togethers.
Storage Tips
Proper storage techniques preserve the flavor and quality of the chicken bake, extending its shelf life and minimizing food waste.
- Allow the chicken bake to cool completely before storing. Cooling prevents condensation from forming, which can lead to a decrease in quality.
- Transfer the cooled chicken bake to an airtight container. Alternatively, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Refrigerate the chicken bake promptly. When stored properly, it can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the chicken bake in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat the chicken bake in the oven at 350F (175C) until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can I use frozen vegetables?
Frozen vegetables are an acceptable substitute for fresh vegetables. Ensure that they are thoroughly drained before adding them to the baking dish. - Question 2: How can I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Ensure that sufficient chicken broth is used and avoid overbaking. Marinating the chicken before baking can also enhance its moisture content. - Question 3: Can I prepare the chicken bake in advance?
The chicken bake can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Add the chicken broth just before baking. - Question 4: What is the ideal internal temperature for the chicken?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165F (74C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to consume.