Chicken with vegetables

Oven-Baked Chicken with Vegetables – A Classic and Flavorful Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Oven-baked chicken with vegetables is a classic and comforting dish, perfect for a family dinner or to impress guests. It is a simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the delicate flavors of chicken with the richness of roasted vegetables. In this guide, I will show you step by step how to achieve juicy chicken and tender vegetables, providing you with useful tips and interesting variations. Let’s get started!

Necessary Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken, approximately 1.5 kg (choose a fresh, quality chicken for better taste)
- 1 large red onion
- 250 g mushrooms (champignon mushrooms or any other preferred type)
- 4 large potatoes (choose potatoes suitable for baking, such as russet)
- 1 tablespoon paprika (you can use either sweet or spicy, depending on your preference)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil (olive oil adds a more intense flavor)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preparing the Chicken:
Start by cutting the chicken along its back, using a sharp kitchen scissors. This step helps to ensure even cooking of the chicken. Once cut, wash it well under cold water, making sure to remove any impurities.

2. Seasoning:
Place the chicken on a cutting board and generously season it with salt and freshly ground pepper. These simple seasonings will enhance the flavors of the meat. If desired, add dried herbs such as thyme or oregano for an extra flavor boost.

3. Preparing the Vegetables:
Wash the onion, mushrooms, and potatoes well. Slice the onion thinly, halve or quarter the mushrooms, and cut the potatoes into cubes or slices, depending on your preference. Arrange the vegetables on a large baking tray, leaving a generous space in the middle for the chicken.

4. Arranging the Tray:
Place the chicken in the center of the tray, surrounded by the chopped vegetables. They will absorb the juices from the meat during baking, making them even more delicious. Drizzle everything with olive oil or vegetable oil, ensuring even coverage of the vegetables.

5. Adding Water and Seasonings:
Pour a cup of water into the tray, which will help maintain moisture during baking. Sprinkle paprika on top, giving both a rich flavor and an appetizing color.

6. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit). Place the tray in the oven and let it bake for about 1 hour. It is important to check occasionally to ensure the chicken does not dry out. If necessary, you can add a little extra water.

7. Serving:
Once the chicken is nicely browned and the vegetables are tender, take the tray out of the oven. Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before cutting. This step will allow the juices from the meat to redistribute, resulting in a juicier chicken.

Serving Suggestion:
Serve the chicken with the roasted vegetables alongside a fresh green salad or with a mint yogurt sauce for a refreshing contrast. Additionally, crusty bread can perfectly complement this dish.

Variations and Practical Tips:
- Vegetable variations: You can add carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers, depending on the season and personal preferences.
- Additional seasonings: Experiment with seasonings such as garlic powder, rosemary, or even lemon to add a fresh taste.
- Grilling: If you prefer, after baking, you can place the chicken on the grill for a few minutes to add a crispy crust.

Nutritional Information:
Each serving of oven-baked chicken with vegetables contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the portion of chicken and the amount of oil used. This dish is rich in protein and fiber, thanks to the chicken and vegetables, making it ideal for a healthy and balanced meal.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use thawed chicken?
Yes, it is perfectly acceptable to use thawed chicken, but make sure it is well-drained before seasoning.

2. How can I tell if the chicken is cooked?
The safest way is to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 75 degrees Celsius (165 degrees Fahrenheit).

3. Can it be prepared in advance?
You can prepare the chicken and vegetables in advance, allowing them to marinate in spices and oil in an airtight container in the fridge. Then, bake them directly from the fridge, with a slightly longer cooking time.

With this simple and delicious recipe for oven-baked chicken with vegetables, you are on your way to impressing your family and friends! It is a dish that not only satisfies the taste buds but also brings a warm and cozy atmosphere around the table. Enjoy your meal!