Are you searching for a delicious and wholesome dinner that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor? Look no further! This Baked Chicken and Potatoes recipe promises tender chicken breasts paired with perfectly roasted baby potatoes and bright, vibrant broccolini. It’s a complete meal in one dish, bursting with colors and nutrients that make any dinner feel special. Whether you are cooking for your family on a weeknight or impressing guests at a weekend gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This recipe combines the wonderful flavors of marinated chicken and roasted vegetables in a single baking dish. Not only is it straightforward and quick to prepare, but it also requires minimal cleanup, making it an ideal option for busy cooks. The chicken cooks to juicy perfection while the potatoes become tender and slightly crispy, and the broccolini adds a touch of freshness and crunch. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that everyone will love!

Ingredients

4 chicken breasts, 2 pounds total, each chicken breast 7-8 ounces
1 ½ pounds (700g) baby potatoes, cut into ¾ inch pieces
12 ounces (320g) broccolini or broccoli
2 teaspoons olive oil

How To Make Baked Chicken and Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken and potatoes will cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden color.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Take your chicken breasts and place them in a large bowl. Drizzle with the olive oil, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, and toss them a bit to evenly coat the chicken. You can also add your favorite dried herbs such as thyme or rosemary if you wish.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables

Next, prepare the baby potatoes. Wash them thoroughly and cut them into ¾ inch pieces for even cooking. Toss the potatoes in the bowl with more olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re nicely coated. If you enjoy a little garlic flavor, feel free to add minced garlic at this stage.

Step 4: Arrange in the Baking Dish

In a large baking dish, arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in the center. Scatter the potatoes around the chicken, making sure they’re spread out for optimal roasting. If you’re using broccolini, toss it in with an additional drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt, then add it to the pan during the last 15 minutes of baking to keep its bright green color and crunch.

Step 5: Bake the Dish

Once everything is in the dish, pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. After this time, check the chicken for doneness. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If using a meat thermometer, this step is crucial for ensuring your chicken is perfectly cooked.

Step 6: Finish Broccolini and Serve

At the 25-minute mark, if your chicken is close to being done, add the broccolini to the dish. Bake for an additional 15 minutes or until everything is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.

Expert Tips

For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, herbs, and spices for at least 30 minutes before baking.
Be sure to cut your potatoes into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
If you love a crispy texture, broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking to give the chicken and potatoes a nice golden crust.
Make sure not to overcrowd your baking dish; leave space for air circulation for even cooking.

Variations and Customizations

Swap the broccolini for other vegetables such as asparagus, bell peppers, or green beans.
Use sweet potatoes instead of baby potatoes for a slightly sweeter and healthier twist.
Add spices like paprika, cumin, or a sprinkle of chili flakes to give your dish an extra kick.
For a lemony flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken and veggies before baking.

How to Store Leftovers

Once your Baked Chicken and Potatoes have cooled completely, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooled dish for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

While fresh chicken breasts yield the best results, you can use frozen chicken. Just be sure they are fully thawed before marinating and baking for even cooking.

What can I serve with Baked Chicken and Potatoes?

This dish stands well on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad, crusty bread, or a light soup to complement the meal.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken breast reads 165°F (74°C). This ensures safe and juicy chicken.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the veggies a day in advance. Store everything in the fridge, and bake when you’re ready to eat for a quick and easy dinner.

Conclusion

Baked Chicken and Potatoes is a versatile, delicious, and fulfilling meal perfect for any occasion. With its simple preparation and wholesome ingredients, you’ll find this dish quickly becoming a staple in your meal rotation. The delightful combination of tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and robust flavors guarantees that every bite is a pleasure. Why not give it a try tonight? Your taste buds will thank you!