Baked chicken and potatoes is a classic, comforting dish that is perfect for any family dinner or gathering. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights. This dish combines juicy, marinated chicken with tender, flavorful potatoes, baked to perfection in the oven.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 4 chicken breasts or thighs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Potatoes:
- 4 large potatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form a marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts or thighs to the bowl and coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for better flavor absorption.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
- Slice the Potatoes: While the chicken is marinating, slice the potatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
- Season the Potatoes: Place the potato slices in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and dried rosemary. Toss to coat the potatoes evenly.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Layer the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large baking dish, layer the seasoned potato slices evenly on the bottom.
- Add the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and place it on top of the potato layer in the baking dish.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender and slightly crispy on the edges.
Step 4: Serve
- Check for Doneness: Ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the potatoes are fully cooked.
- Serve: Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the baked chicken and potatoes hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Notes
- Marinating Time: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes will still provide good results.
- Potato Slices: Make sure to slice the potatoes evenly to ensure they cook uniformly.
- Covering the Dish: Covering the dish with foil initially helps the potatoes cook through without drying out the chicken. Removing the foil later allows the chicken and potatoes to develop a nice, golden brown color.
Variations
Lemon Herb Chicken and Potatoes:
- Add the juice and zest of one lemon to the marinade for a bright, tangy flavor. Replace the rosemary with thyme and add some fresh parsley before serving.
Spicy Chicken and Potatoes:
- Add 1 teaspoon of chili powder and a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicy kick. Serve with a side of cooling yogurt sauce.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes:
- Add 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and an extra clove of minced garlic to the potato seasoning. Sprinkle some more Parmesan on top before serving.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Chicken Cuts: You can use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks for a juicier result. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Potato Varieties: Russet potatoes work well for this recipe, but you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a slightly different texture and flavor.
- Even Cooking: Ensure that the chicken pieces are similar in size for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Serve with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Sauces: A side of garlic aioli or a light gravy can complement the flavors of the dish nicely.
- Garnishes: Fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or chives can add a fresh touch to the final presentation.
Baked chicken and potatoes is a delicious and hearty meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to please the whole family. With its tender chicken and perfectly roasted potatoes, it’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. Enjoy this classic recipe on busy weeknights or as a cozy weekend dinner.
