Oven-baked chicken with potatoes

Oven-baked chicken with potatoes – a simple and delicious recipe, perfect for family meals or special occasions. This dish combines the intense flavors of chicken with the creamy texture of potatoes, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. We will explore together how to achieve perfectly browned chicken and delicious potatoes, all enveloped in aromas and flavors.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Total: 55-60 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients
- 8 chicken thighs (preferably upper for juiciness)
- 1-2 kg of new potatoes (or more if you prefer)
- Chicken spices (a combination of salt, pepper, sweet paprika, garlic powder)
- 2-3 bay leaves
- Olive oil or sunflower oil (enough to grease the baking dish)
- Aluminum foil

Nutritional information
This oven-baked chicken with potatoes recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken meat and contains healthy carbohydrates from the potatoes. Each serving provides approximately 350-450 calories, depending on the portion size and the amount of oil used. Potatoes are a good source of vitamins C and B6, as well as essential minerals like potassium.

A brief history
Oven-baked chicken with potatoes is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for generations. This simple recipe has been adapted over time, but its essence remains the same: a juicy chicken, cooked slowly, releasing its flavors, alongside aromatic potatoes. This combination has become a symbol of Sunday dinner in many households.

Step by step

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the chicken thighs well under cold running water. Make sure to dry them with a paper towel to remove excess water, so the spices stick well.

Step 2: Seasoning the chicken
Get into the cooking mood and sprinkle the thighs with the chicken spices. Ensure they are evenly coated, using a combination of salt, pepper, sweet paprika, and garlic powder. You can also add herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra flavor boost.

Step 3: Preparing the potatoes
If using new potatoes, wash them well, keeping the skin intact for added texture and flavor. Cut larger potatoes in half, so they all cook evenly.

Step 4: Assembling the dish
Grease a baking dish with a little oil to prevent sticking. Place the chicken thighs in the dish, arranging them in a single layer. At the edges, place the potatoes, covering the chicken well. Sprinkle a little salt and add the bay leaves to enhance the aroma.

Step 5: Baking in the oven
Pour about 200 ml of water into the dish, so steam forms during baking, helping the chicken cook evenly. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture. Place the dish in the preheated oven at 180°C and let it bake for 35-40 minutes.

Step 6: Achieving the perfect crust
Once the chicken and potatoes are nearly done, remove the aluminum foil and let them bake for an additional 10 minutes. This step is essential to achieve a golden, crispy crust on the potatoes.

Step 7: Serving
Once the dish is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve the chicken and potatoes alongside a mixed salad, which can include tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion for a fresh touch.

Practical tips
- Variations of ingredients: You can experiment by adding vegetables like carrots or onions to the dish to enrich it.
- Alternative spices: Instead of chicken spices, you can opt for a marinade with yogurt and garlic or with soy sauce and ginger, offering a different flavor.
- Tip for juicy chicken: If you want even juicier chicken, let it marinate in spices for 1-2 hours before cooking.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can the dish be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken, but it’s better to consume the potatoes fresh, as their texture will change when frozen.

2. Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Of course! Boneless thighs will cook faster, so adjust the baking time to about 30-35 minutes.

3. What drinks pair best?
A dry white wine or a pale beer are excellent choices to accompany the oven-baked chicken. If you prefer non-alcoholic drinks, a mint iced tea or lemonade are refreshing options.

Personal note
This oven-baked chicken with potatoes recipe has become one of my favorites, especially on weekends when the family gathers around the table to enjoy a delicious meal. I love to add some fresh herbs on top before serving for a more appealing look and intensified flavor.

Regardless of the occasion, this dish will always bring smiles to the faces of loved ones. So, get ready to enjoy a delicious meal, full of warmth and flavors!