One-dish baked chicken recipes are a lifesaver for busy weeknights. They're simple to prepare, require minimal cleanup, and often result in incredibly flavorful meals. This guide explores various delicious and easy one-dish baked chicken recipes, catering to different tastes and dietary needs. We'll delve into tips and tricks to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked and your dish is bursting with flavor.
What are the benefits of one-dish baked chicken recipes?
One-dish meals offer a multitude of advantages. They significantly reduce cooking time compared to multi-step recipes, leading to faster meal preparation. The convenience is undeniable – less washing up means more time for relaxing or spending time with loved ones. Furthermore, many one-dish recipes are incredibly versatile, allowing for customization with different vegetables, herbs, and spices to suit individual preferences.
Easy One-Dish Baked Chicken with Roasted Vegetables
This classic recipe is a crowd-pleaser. The combination of tender chicken and roasted vegetables creates a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 lb assorted vegetables (potatoes, carrots, broccoli, bell peppers – chopped)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the chopped vegetables with olive oil, herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Place the vegetables in a single layer in a baking dish.
- Place the chicken breasts or thighs on top of the vegetables.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and additional herbs if desired.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
Tips for Success:
- For even cooking, ensure the vegetables are roughly the same size.
- Don't overcrowd the baking dish; this will prevent proper browning and cooking.
- You can add other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika for extra flavor.
One-Dish Lemon Herb Baked Chicken and Potatoes
This recipe offers a bright and zesty twist on the classic baked chicken and potato dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 lbs baby potatoes, halved or quartered
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange potatoes in a single layer in a baking dish.
- Place chicken breasts on top of the potatoes.
- Tuck lemon slices and rosemary sprigs around the chicken and potatoes.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
One-Dish Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Bake
This comforting casserole is perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Steam or microwave broccoli until tender-crisp.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
How long does it take to bake chicken in one dish?
The baking time for one-dish chicken recipes varies depending on the size and type of chicken, as well as the other ingredients in the dish. Generally, boneless, skinless chicken breasts will take 30-40 minutes to bake at 400°F (200°C), while thighs may require slightly longer. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Can I use frozen chicken in a one-dish bake?
While it's generally recommended to use thawed chicken for the best results, you can use frozen chicken in a one-dish bake. However, you will need to increase the baking time significantly – potentially by 50% or more – to ensure the chicken cooks thoroughly. It's best to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
What are some variations for one-dish baked chicken recipes?
The beauty of one-dish baked chicken recipes is their versatility. Experiment with different vegetables, herbs, spices, and cheeses to create your own unique variations. Consider adding things like:
- Different types of potatoes (sweet potatoes, red potatoes)
- Other root vegetables (carrots, parsnips, turnips)
- Leafy greens (spinach, kale)
- Beans and lentils for extra protein
- Different cheeses (mozzarella, parmesan, Monterey Jack)
- Various herbs and spices (Italian seasoning, garlic, onion powder, paprika, cumin)
By following these guidelines and experimenting with different ingredients, you can easily create delicious and convenient one-dish baked chicken recipes that your whole family will enjoy. Remember, the key is to have fun and get creative in the kitchen!
