Oven-baked chicken with vegetables

Oven-baked chicken with vegetables: A delicious, easy-to-make recipe full of flavor

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

Who doesn't love a warm, flavorful, and comforting meal? Oven-baked chicken with vegetables is a classic dish that brings together fresh and healthy ingredients in a perfect combination. Whether it's a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe proves to be an excellent choice. Plus, it is easy to customize according to everyone's preferences.

A bit of history

The oven-baked chicken with vegetables has deep roots in culinary tradition, being an excellent way to make the most of seasonal ingredients. Baking allows the flavors to blend perfectly, and the chicken becomes tender and juicy, while the vegetables caramelize, bringing a natural sweetness. This recipe is not only delicious but also healthy, thanks to the simple and nutritious ingredients.

Necessary ingredients

- 2 chicken thighs
- 1 chicken breast (cut in half)
- 5 new potatoes (or regular potatoes if you don't have them)
- 2 onions (preferably white or yellow)
- 5 cloves of garlic
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 6 yellow cherry tomatoes
- Olive oil
- Salt, pepper, paprika
- Fresh or dried rosemary

Details about the ingredients

- Chicken: Choose quality chicken, preferably free-range, for a more intense flavor.
- Vegetables: New potatoes add a pleasant texture, while the peppers and tomatoes provide vibrant color and fresh taste. Garlic and onion will add an extra layer of flavor.
- Spices: Paprika (smoked or sweet) will give a slightly spicy taste and a beautiful color to the dish, while rosemary will complete the aroma.

Step by step for perfect oven-baked chicken

1. Preparing the chicken: Start by preheating the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. In a bowl, place the thighs and the halved chicken breast. Add olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika. Rub the meat well with the spices to ensure even marination.

2. Searing the chicken: In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil and add the chicken. Sear it for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. This will help seal in the juices and provide a more intense flavor.

3. Preparing the vegetables: Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and crushed garlic. Sauté them for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Then, add the sliced peppers and the peeled and cubed potatoes. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and rosemary. Sauté everything for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Assembling the dish: In a baking dish, add the sautéed vegetables, then place the chicken on top. Cut the cherry tomatoes in half and sprinkle them over the chicken and vegetables. They will add extra juice and flavor.

5. Baking: Cover the dish with aluminum foil (to retain moisture) and place it in the oven. Bake for 30 minutes. In the last 10 minutes, remove the foil to allow the chicken to brown and become crispy.

6. Serving: Once the dish is ready, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute in the meat. You can serve the chicken with a garlic sauce or a light salad for a balanced meal.

Variations and suggestions

- For an exotic touch, add spices like cumin or coriander.
- If you want a vegetarian recipe, replace the chicken with marinated tofu or tempeh.
- You can experiment with other seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or carrots, to diversify the dish.

Nutritional benefits

This dish is an excellent source of protein (from the meat) and fiber (from the vegetables), making it ideal for a balanced diet. The chicken is rich in B vitamins, essential for metabolism, while the vegetables are full of antioxidants, contributing to overall health.

Calories per serving: approximately 350-400 kcal, depending on the portions of chicken and vegetables used.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can replace the chicken with turkey or pork, but the cooking time may vary.

2. What can I do with the leftovers?
You can turn the leftovers into a tasty salad or use them in a sandwich.

3. How can I store the leftover chicken?
The chicken and vegetables can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container.

In conclusion, oven-baked chicken with vegetables is a versatile, easy-to-make recipe full of flavor. Experiment with the ingredients and find the perfect combination for your tastes. Cooking is an art, and each recipe is an opportunity to create something special. Enjoy your meal!