Baked chicken with potatoes and onions is a classic, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and always a hit. The combination of juicy chicken, tender potatoes, and flavorful onions creates a hearty and satisfying meal. Let’s dive into the recipe and make this delicious dish at home.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1 large red onion, sliced into wedges
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Rinse and pat dry the chicken thighs or drumsticks with paper towels. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Season the Chicken:
- Drizzle the chicken with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sprinkle with paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the chicken evenly with the spices.
- Prepare the Potatoes and Onions:
- Peel and quarter the potatoes. Slice the red onion into wedges. Add the potatoes and onions to the bowl with the chicken.
- Season the Vegetables:
- Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the potatoes and onions. Season with a bit more salt and pepper. Toss everything together to ensure the vegetables are well-coated with the oil and spices.
Step 2: Assemble and Bake
- Arrange in a Baking Dish:
- Transfer the chicken, potatoes, and onions to a large baking dish. Arrange the chicken pieces so they are evenly spaced out, and distribute the potatoes and onions around the chicken.
- Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the potatoes are tender. The chicken skin should be golden brown and crispy.
- Check for Doneness:
- Halfway through baking, you can baste the chicken with the juices from the bottom of the pan to keep it moist. You may also stir the potatoes and onions to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Serve
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once the chicken and vegetables are done, remove the baking dish from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
- Enjoy:
- Serve the baked chicken with potatoes and onions warm. This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.
Tips for Perfect Baked Chicken with Potatoes and Onions
- Uniform Sizing: Cut the potatoes into even-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly with the chicken.
- Skin-On Chicken: Using chicken with the skin on helps to keep the meat juicy and adds extra flavor.
- Herbs and Spices: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Rosemary, thyme, or Italian seasoning would be great additions.
- Marination: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the spices and olive oil for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Crispy Skin: For extra crispy chicken skin, you can broil the dish for the last 5 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Variations
- Lemon Garlic: Add lemon slices and minced garlic to the baking dish for a bright and aromatic flavor. The lemon adds a refreshing acidity that complements the richness of the chicken and potatoes.
- Honey Mustard: Mix 2 tablespoons of honey with 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard and brush it over the chicken before baking. This will give the chicken a sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
- Vegetable Medley: Add other vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini to the dish for added color and nutrition. This not only makes the dish more vibrant but also enhances its nutritional value.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side Salad: Serve the baked chicken with a crisp green salad drizzled with a simple vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad provides a nice contrast to the savory baked chicken and potatoes.
- Over Rice: For a more substantial meal, serve the chicken and vegetables over a bed of fluffy rice. The rice will soak up the delicious juices from the dish, making every bite flavorful.
- With Bread: Pair the dish with a loaf of crusty bread to mop up the tasty juices. Garlic bread or a warm baguette would be perfect choices.
Health Benefits
- Protein-Rich: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Nutrient-Packed: Potatoes provide a good amount of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, while onions are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Heart-Healthy: Using olive oil instead of butter or other fats helps to keep the dish heart-healthy by providing monounsaturated fats.
Baked chicken with potatoes and onions is a versatile and delicious meal that can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences. Its simplicity and the combination of savory flavors make it a perfect weeknight dinner option. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. Try this recipe and enjoy a comforting and hearty dish with your family and friends. Happy cooking!
