Oven-baked chicken with potatoes

Oven-baked chicken with potatoes: a simple, quick, and delicious recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 45-55 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to the world of gastronomy! Today, I will teach you how to prepare a classic recipe that always brings joy to the table: oven-baked chicken with potatoes. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or when you have guests, offering a comforting taste and delicious aromas. Let's get started!

The history of the recipe

Oven-baked chicken with potatoes is a traditional dish that has been enjoyed for generations. This simple recipe combines basic ingredients, chicken and potatoes, transforming them into a hearty and flavorful meal. Baking allows the ingredients to harmonize, intensifying the flavors and providing a final result that no one can refuse.

Ingredients

- 4 chicken thighs (preferably skinless, but you can leave the skin on for a richer taste)
- 4 medium-sized potatoes (choose firm, unblemished potatoes)
- 1 tablespoon of oil (olive oil or sunflower oil are excellent options)
- 300 ml of water
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika (for a touch of color and flavor)
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder (or 2-3 cloves of fresh garlic, finely chopped)

Practical tips about ingredients

- Chicken thighs: Choose thighs for a juicier dish. If you prefer leaner meat, you can use chicken breast, but be careful not to dry it out while baking.
- Potatoes: New potatoes are ideal for this recipe, but you can also use white or red potatoes. Make sure to cut them into uniform cubes for even cooking.
- Spices: Get creative with spices! You can add oregano, thyme, or rosemary for extra flavor in your dish.

Cooking technique

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the chicken thighs well under cold running water. Remove the skin if you prefer a lighter dish. Then, cut the potatoes into cubes of about 2-3 cm. This will ensure even cooking.

2. Seasoning: In a large bowl, add the chicken thighs and potato cubes. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, sweet paprika, and garlic powder. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with spices. This is the perfect time to get involved! Use your hands to massage the spices into the chicken and potatoes, making sure they are well combined.

3. Preparing the baking tray: Take a baking tray and cover it with aluminum foil. This will help retain moisture during baking and make the chicken more tender. Moisten the foil with a tablespoon of oil, then carefully place the seasoned thighs and potatoes in the tray.

4. Adding water: Pour 300 ml of water into the tray; this moisture will help cook the chicken and prevent the potatoes from drying out. Cover everything with another layer of aluminum foil.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius (or 180 degrees for a fan oven). Place the tray in the oven and let it bake for 30-40 minutes. Check occasionally, as cooking time may vary depending on your oven's power.

6. Browning: Near the end, you can remove the top foil to allow the chicken to brown nicely. This is the ideal time to add a splash of extra oil if you desire a crispier crust.

7. Serving: Once everything is cooked, take the tray out of the oven and let the dish rest for a few minutes. Serve it warm, alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for an extra boost of vitamins.

Personal variation

For an extra burst of flavor, you can add lemon slices or olives to the tray before baking. These will bring a note of freshness and a pleasant contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken and potatoes.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can replace the chicken thighs with pork or turkey. Cooking time may vary, so check if the meat is well cooked.
- What other side dishes can I use? This recipe pairs perfectly with coleslaw or grilled vegetables.
- How can I store leftovers? If you have leftovers, you can keep them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat in the oven or microwave.

Calories and nutritional benefits

A serving of this oven-baked chicken with potatoes contains approximately 400-500 calories, depending on the portion of meat and oil used. Chicken thighs are rich in protein and contain B vitamins, essential for energy metabolism. Potatoes provide complex carbohydrates and fiber, making them a filling and healthy side dish.

Conclusion

This oven-baked chicken with potatoes recipe is not only simple but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or just to treat yourself after a long day, the result will always be delicious. Try it today and enjoy its enticing flavors! Bon appétit!