Baked Chicken with Potatoes, Tomatoes, and Onions is a simple yet delicious one-pan meal that combines tender chicken with flavorful vegetables. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need to prepare a healthy and hearty meal with minimal effort. The combination of chicken, potatoes, tomatoes, and onions, seasoned and baked together, creates a wonderful blend of flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken legs (drumsticks and thighs)
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
- 2 large tomatoes, cut into wedges
- 1 large red onion, cut into wedges
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season Chicken: Place the chicken legs in a large bowl. Add the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, dried thyme, smoked paprika, and lemon juice. Toss to coat the chicken evenly with the seasoning.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
- Cut Vegetables: Peel and cut the potatoes into wedges. Cut the tomatoes and red onion into wedges.
- Season Vegetables: Add the potatoes, tomatoes, and onion wedges to the bowl with the chicken. Toss everything together so that the vegetables are also coated with the seasoning mixture.
Step 3: Arrange in Baking Dish
- Arrange Chicken and Vegetables: In a large baking dish or ovenproof skillet, arrange the chicken legs in a single layer. Place the potato wedges around the chicken. Scatter the tomato and onion wedges over the top.
- Add Extra Seasoning: Drizzle a little extra olive oil over the top if desired for added crispiness.
Step 4: Bake the Dish
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and Continue Baking: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender and golden brown. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Once the dish is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve: Serve the baked chicken with potatoes, tomatoes, and onions hot, directly from the baking dish. It pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.
Cooking Notes
- Chicken Cuts: You can use other cuts of chicken such as thighs, drumsticks, or even a whole chicken cut into pieces.
- Vegetable Options: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for added variety and nutrition.
- Lemon Juice: The lemon juice adds a nice tang to the dish. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of lemon juice or omit it altogether.
Variations
Low-Carb/Keto Version:
- Substitute the potatoes with cauliflower florets to keep the dish low-carb and keto-friendly.
Gluten-Free Version:
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Ensure all ingredients, particularly any spices or seasonings, are certified gluten-free if necessary.
Vegan Version:
- Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth for seasoning. Adjust the baking time as needed for the tofu or tempeh.
Tips for Perfect Baked Chicken and Vegetables
- Even Cooking: Ensure the chicken and vegetables are spread out in a single layer for even cooking. Overcrowding the pan can cause uneven cooking and steaming instead of roasting.
- Crispy Skin: For extra crispy chicken skin, broil the dish for the last 3-5 minutes of baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Resting Time: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to serve.
Baked Chicken with Potatoes, Tomatoes, and Onions is a delicious and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. The combination of tender chicken, crispy potatoes, and flavorful tomatoes and onions creates a hearty and satisfying dish. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the simplicity and rich flavors of this one-pan meal and savor the delightful blend of ingredients!
Enjoy your Baked Chicken with Potatoes, Tomatoes, and Onions!