Chicken and Potato Bake

A Chicken and Potato Bake is the perfect comfort meal—simple to prepare, hearty, and delicious! It combines tender chicken with crispy roasted potatoes, all baked together with flavorful herbs and seasonings. Here’s a quick and easy recipe for a Chicken and Potato Bake that’s sure to impress:

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or breasts, if you prefer)

• 4-5 medium potatoes (Yukon gold or russet work best)

• 2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh if you prefer)

• 1 tsp paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/2 tsp dried rosemary (optional)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavor)

• Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel to ensure crispy skin.

   • Rub the chicken with 1 tbsp olive oil, then season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried thyme (or rosemary).

3. Prepare the Potatoes:

   • Wash and peel (if desired) the potatoes. Cut them into 1-inch cubes or wedges for even cooking.

   • In a bowl, toss the potatoes with the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and rosemary (if using).

4. Assemble the Dish:

   • In a large baking dish or sheet pan, spread the seasoned potatoes evenly.

   • Place the chicken thighs on top of the potatoes, skin-side up.

   • If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes for added flavor and crunch.

5. Bake:

   • Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the potatoes are golden and crispy. You can check the potatoes by poking them with a fork—if they’re soft inside and crispy outside, they’re ready.

6. Optional:

   • Broil for an extra 3-5 minutes at the end of cooking to get the chicken skin even crispier and golden brown.

7. Garnish and Serve:

   • Once everything is cooked, remove the dish from the oven. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness.

   • Serve hot and enjoy your delicious, hearty meal!

Tips for Success:

• Chicken Variations: If you prefer boneless chicken, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Just adjust the cooking time since boneless pieces cook faster (around 25-30 minutes).

• Potato Variations: You can use sweet potatoes for a different flavor. They cook similarly to regular potatoes, but may need a little more time.

• Add Veggies: Add in some vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli in the baking dish for a one-pan meal. Just make sure to chop them evenly to ensure even cooking.

This Chicken and Potato Bake is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but also impressive enough for guests. Enjoy!

Would you like a side dish idea to go with this, or maybe a variation on the seasoning?