Oven-baked chicken with green beans

Oven-baked chicken with green beans – an easy and healthy recipe, perfect for evenings when you want to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish, full of flavors and colors, is ideal for the whole family and can quickly become one of your favorites.

Total preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

A brief history of the recipe
Oven-baked chicken dishes have been appreciated over time for their versatility. Whether cooked with fresh or frozen vegetables, these meals are not only filling but also packed with vitamins and minerals. The combination with green beans adds not only extra flavor but also a crunchy texture and considerable nutritional benefits.

Ingredients:
- 1 small whole chicken (600-700 g)
- 500 g frozen green beans
- 2 medium onions
- 1 large carrot
- 1 bell pepper (can also be frozen)
- 10 ml olive oil or sunflower oil
- 3-4 tablespoons ketchup
- 2-3 bay leaves
- Dried thyme (to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by peeling and chopping the vegetables. Wash the carrot and peel it, then slice it thinly. Chop the onion finely and cut the bell pepper into small pieces. These vegetables will add extra flavor to the chicken and contribute to a delicious sauce.

2. Sautéing the vegetables
In a heated skillet, add the oil and sauté the chopped onion over low heat for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Add the sliced carrot and bell pepper, letting them sauté together for 3-4 minutes. This step is essential as it will allow the vegetables to release their flavors and become sweeter.

3. Preparing the chicken
Meanwhile, wash the chicken under cold running water and cut it into two or four pieces, depending on your preference. Make sure to remove any excess skin if necessary. This will help achieve a healthier meal with less fat.

4. Assembling the dish
In a deep pot, place the sautéed vegetable mixture. Arrange the chicken pieces on top and add the frozen green beans. Cover everything with ketchup, add a liter of water, and season with bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Gently stir to ensure the chicken and vegetables are well coated.

5. Baking in the oven
Preheat the oven to 200-220 degrees Celsius. Place the pot in the oven and let it bake for about 40 minutes. It is important to check occasionally, ensuring that the chicken does not dry out and that the sauce remains moist. After 30 minutes, you can open the oven door to check if the chicken has started to brown.

6. Finishing and serving
When the chicken has a golden crust and the vegetables have softened, remove the pot from the oven. Let the dish sit for 5 minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier meat.

Serving suggestion:
This dish is delicious served alongside a fresh green salad or boiled potatoes. You can also add a few slices of lemon for a contrasting flavor.

Possible variations:
If you want to add a touch of creativity, you can include some cherry tomatoes or black olives in the sauce for extra flavor. You can also experiment with other frozen vegetables, such as broccoli or cauliflower.

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken is an excellent source of protein, and green beans provide important fiber and vitamins. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also healthy, with a low calorie content, making it suitable for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken, but make sure to adjust the cooking time as the meat will cook faster.

- What can I use instead of ketchup?
If you prefer, you can use tomato paste or soy sauce for a different taste.

- Can I add extra spices?
Of course! Spices like paprika, garlic powder, or even chili pepper can add extra flavor.

In conclusion, this oven-baked chicken with green beans recipe is not only quick to prepare but also offers a wonderful taste, making it perfect for everyday meals. Experiment with the ingredients and find the combination you like best. Enjoy your meal!