Baked Chicken & Potatoes Tray Recipe
If you’re craving a meal that combines comfort, heartiness, and simplicity, the Baked Chicken & Potatoes Tray is an absolute winner. This dish brings together juicy, perfectly spiced chicken thighs and golden, crispy potatoes all roasted together on one tray, making dinner time both effortless and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, this recipe packs plenty of flavors and is sure to become a staple in your home cooking rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Baked Chicken & Potatoes Tray lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an essential role, creating a wonderful balance of savory, tender, and crispy textures with vibrant flavors that complement each other beautifully.
- 4 chicken thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs provide juicy meat and crispy skin for irresistible texture.
- 3 potatoes, cubed: These soak up the seasoning and roast to a golden crunch, offering fluffy interiors.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps to create that perfect crispy finish and enhances the flavors.
- 1 tsp paprika: Adds gentle smokiness and a lovely warm color to the chicken and potatoes.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Gives a subtle yet savory hit that elevates the entire dish.
- Salt and pepper: The basics that bring all the flavors together perfectly and highlight the natural ingredients.
How to Make Baked Chicken & Potatoes Tray
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven to 400°F (200°C)
Getting the oven up to the right temperature is crucial to achieving that perfectly crisp skin on your chicken and golden, tender potatoes. While the oven warms up, you can prep your ingredients to save time.
Step 2: Season the Chicken and Potatoes
Combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss the cubed potatoes in this mixture first to coat them evenly. Next, rub the seasoned oil onto your chicken thighs, making sure to get under the skin where possible. This ensures every bite bursts with flavor.
Step 3: Arrange Everything on a Baking Tray
Lay the chicken thighs skin side up, spaced out on the tray, then scatter the potatoes around them in a single layer. This setup allows the heat to circulate properly so the chicken crisps up and the potatoes roast evenly.
Step 4: Bake Until Deliciously Cooked
Pop the tray into the oven and bake for about 35 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken’s juices run clear and the skin turns golden brown, while the potatoes are tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. If you fancy extra crispiness, broil for a couple of minutes at the end, but keep a close eye to avoid burning.
How to Serve Baked Chicken & Potatoes Tray
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary sprinkled on top add a burst of brightness and color, making your Baked Chicken & Potatoes Tray look as good as it tastes. A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving also elevates the flavors wonderfully.
Side Dishes
Though this tray meal is quite complete, pairing it with a crisp green salad or some steamed green beans can add a refreshing contrast. A dollop of garlic mayo or a light yogurt sauce on the side complements the savory notes beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a rustic family-style dinner, serve straight from the baking tray on the table with thick slices of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices. Alternatively, plate individual portions with a drizzle of warm pan juices for a more elegant touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Baked Chicken & Potatoes Tray in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken and potatoes separately for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool completely before freezing, and use freezer-safe containers or bags to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which helps restore crispiness to the chicken skin and potatoes. Avoid microwaving if you can, as it tends to make crispy parts soggy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work, but keep in mind they cook faster and can dry out more easily. Adjust baking time accordingly and consider marinating or using a bit more olive oil to keep them juicy.
What type of potatoes is best for this recipe?
Yukon Gold or red potatoes are fantastic choices because they hold their shape well and crisp up nicely. Avoid waxy potatoes as they might become too soft after baking.
Can I add other vegetables to the tray?
Definitely! Vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts roast beautifully alongside and add color and flavor. Just be sure to cut them into pieces sized similarly to the potatoes for even cooking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! The Baked Chicken & Potatoes Tray is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free spices and check any packaged ingredients to be sure.
How can I make the chicken skin extra crispy?
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning and bake it uncovered. For even crispier skin, broil for the last 2–3 minutes of cooking but watch it carefully to avoid burning.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting and satisfying about a well-done Baked Chicken & Potatoes Tray. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day and tastes like it took much more effort than just a handful of ingredients and one hearty tray in the oven. So next time you want a fuss-free, delicious, and crowd-pleasing meal, give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!
