Easy: Quick Oven-Baked Chicken One-Dish Recipe!
This recipe offers a streamlined method for preparing a complete and satisfying meal featuring tender chicken and complementary vegetables, all cooked together on a single pan. Infused with savory herbs and a touch of garlic, the dish achieves a balanced flavor profile that is both comforting and easily customizable. It's an ideal option for weeknight dinners or any occasion when time is of the essence.
Equipment
- The preparation of "Quick oven-baked chicken in one dish" requires a few essential kitchen tools:
- Large Baking Sheet (13x18 inches): Provides ample space for even cooking.
- Large Mixing Bowl: For tossing the vegetables with seasonings.
- Cutting Board: For safe and efficient vegetable preparation.
- Chef's Knife: A versatile knife for chopping and slicing.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Meat Thermometer: Ensures the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Parchment Paper or Aluminum Foil (Optional): For easy cleanup.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 lb red potatoes, quartered
- 1 large onion, cut into wedges
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 400F (200C). Ensuring the oven is fully heated before placing the dish inside promotes even cooking.
- Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, onion, carrots, and bell peppers. Drizzle with olive oil, and then add the garlic, Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss well to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated with the seasonings. Tip: For easier cleanup, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil before adding the vegetables.
- Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Create some space in the center of the baking sheet for the chicken.
- Step 4: Add the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in the center of the baking sheet, nestling them among the vegetables. This arrangement allows the chicken to cook evenly while absorbing the flavors from the surrounding vegetables.
- Step 5: Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165F (74C). Tip: Halfway through the cooking time, gently stir the vegetables to ensure they cook evenly and prevent them from sticking to the baking sheet.
- Step 6: Serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve with lemon wedges for a bright and flavorful finish. Optional Tips: Vegetable Substitutions: Feel free to substitute your favorite vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preference. Broccoli, zucchini, or sweet potatoes would all be excellent additions. Spice Adjustments: Adjust the amount of herbs and spices to suit your taste. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a touch of heat, while a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors. Chicken Variation: Bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces can also be used, but may require a longer cooking time. Ensure the chicken is cooked through before serving.
Notes
Variations
“Quick oven-baked chicken in one dish” offers ample opportunities for customization to suit various preferences and dietary needs:
- Ingredient Swaps: The recipe is easily adaptable to accommodate different vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preference. Broccoli florets, zucchini slices, or Brussels sprouts can be substituted for, or added to, the listed vegetables.
- Regional Twists: Incorporating regional flavors can transform the dish. A Mediterranean twist can be achieved by adding Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a sprinkle of oregano. For a Southwestern flair, consider using chili powder, cumin, and a squeeze of lime juice.
- Dietary Adjustments: For a lower-carb version, increase the amount of non-starchy vegetables and reduce or eliminate the potatoes. The recipe is naturally gluten-free, but ensuring all herbs and spices used are certified gluten-free is essential for those with celiac disease. A dairy-free version is inherent to the recipe, but mindful selection of cooking oil is advisable for those with specific allergies.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is versatile and can be served in a variety of ways.
- When to Serve: It is ideal for weeknight dinners due to its simplicity and speed. It is equally suitable for casual weekend gatherings or potlucks.
- How to Serve It: This can be served as a complete meal in itself. It also pairs well with a simple side salad or crusty bread for soaking up the flavorful pan juices. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can add a refreshing touch.
- Beverage Pairings: A light-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir, or a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors of the dish. Iced tea or sparkling water with a lemon slice are non-alcoholic alternatives.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is crucial to maintaining the freshness and quality of any leftover “Quick oven-baked chicken in one dish”.
- How to Preserve Freshness: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly to prevent bacterial growth.
- Shelf Life: When stored properly in the refrigerator, leftovers can be safely consumed within 3-4 days.
- Reheating Instructions: Reheat the dish in the oven at 350F (175C) until heated through, or microwave on high for 1-2 minutes. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F (74C) before consuming.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can I use frozen vegetables? Answer: Frozen vegetables can be used, but it may impact the texture. It is advisable to thaw them slightly and pat them dry before adding them to the dish.
- Question 2: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Answer: The vegetables can be prepped and tossed with seasonings in advance. It is best to add the chicken just before baking to prevent it from drying out.
- Question 3: How do I prevent the vegetables from becoming soggy? Answer: Ensure the vegetables are spread in a single layer on the baking sheet, and avoid overcrowding. Stirring them halfway through the cooking time helps to ensure even cooking.
- Question 4: Is it possible to use bone-in chicken? Answer: Bone-in chicken can be used, but the cooking time will need to be adjusted accordingly. It is essential to ensure the chicken is cooked through before serving.
- Question 5: Can I add a sauce during the last few minutes of cooking? Answer: A sauce can be added during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. This could be teriyaki sauce, BBQ sauce, honey-mustard sauce, or tomato based sauce. Be careful when adding sweet sauces (e.g. honey-mustard) to prevent burning it.