One Dish Chicken Bake Recipe
The One Dish Chicken Bake is a wonderfully simple, comforting meal that combines tender chicken breasts with vegetables and a savory sauce, all cooked together in a single dish. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, as it requires minimal prep time and cleanup while delivering a balanced, delicious meal. With easy-to-find ingredients and customizable options, this dish will surely become a staple in your recipe rotation.
One Dish Chicken Bake is the ultimate comfort food: an all-in-one meal that combines the flavors of seasoned chicken, hearty vegetables, and a creamy sauce. Not only does this recipe save time on cooking and cleanup, but it also ensures that everything cooks together, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Whether you’re a busy cook or someone who enjoys uncomplicated recipes, this chicken bake offers an ideal mix of ease and taste.
Preparation Tips
- Slice Vegetables Evenly: To ensure even cooking, cut the vegetables into similar-sized pieces.
- Season Generously: Since the vegetables and chicken bake together, generous seasoning will ensure that every bite is flavorful.
- Cover for Juicier Chicken: Covering the dish for part of the baking time helps keep the chicken moist.
- Choose Your Sauce Wisely: You can opt for cream of mushroom, cream of chicken soup, or even a homemade creamy sauce for a more personalized touch.
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved potatoes, sliced carrots, and green beans. Drizzle with olive oil, then add salt, black pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Toss until the vegetables are evenly coated.
- Arrange in the Baking Dish:
- Spread the seasoned vegetables evenly across the bottom of the baking dish, creating a layer for the chicken to sit on.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic. Place the chicken breasts on top of the vegetable layer in the baking dish.
- Mix the Sauce:
- In a separate bowl, mix together the condensed soup, chicken broth, and heavy cream or milk. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the Sauce Over:
- Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables. The sauce will seep down into the vegetables as it cooks, creating a flavorful, creamy base.
- Bake the Dish:
- Cover the baking dish with foil to prevent the top from drying out. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
- Uncover and Finish Baking:
- After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the vegetables are tender.
- Serve Warm:
- Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh thyme or rosemary if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This One Dish Chicken Bake pairs beautifully with simple sides or additions:
- Crusty Bread: A side of crusty bread works well for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
- Steamed Rice: Serve over steamed white or brown rice to add more substance and soak up the sauce.
Variations and Substitutions
- Different Vegetables: Substitute or add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Spicy Option: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a hint of heat.
- Cheese Topping: Sprinkle shredded cheese (like Parmesan or mozzarella) on top for a cheesy, bubbly finish.
- Herb Substitutions: Basil or oregano can be used in place of thyme and rosemary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs have more fat, which can make the dish even juicier. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may cook faster.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s been chilled.
Q: How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Use a non-dairy milk alternative like coconut milk or almond milk and substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a dairy-free alternative.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three months. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Conclusion
The One Dish Chicken Bake is a lifesaver when you need a nourishing meal without the fuss. With its tender, juicy chicken, perfectly roasted vegetables, and creamy sauce, this dish brings together comforting flavors with minimal effort. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit your preferences, from the vegetables you choose to the spices you add. Enjoy this hearty, satisfying meal with family and friends, and appreciate the ease of one-dish cooking!
One Dish Chicken Bake Recipe
The One Dish Chicken Bake is a wonderfully simple, comforting meal that combines tender chicken breasts with vegetables and a savory sauce, all cooked together in a single dish. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, as it requires minimal prep time and cleanup while delivering a balanced, delicious meal. With easy-to-find ingredients and customizable options, this dish will surely become a staple in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup baby potatoes, quartered
- 1 cup baby carrots
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish or sheet pan with olive oil or non-stick spray. - Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the center of the baking dish. - Arrange the Vegetables:
In a bowl, toss the potatoes, carrots, and green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange the seasoned vegetables around the chicken in the baking dish. - Add Lemon Slices:
Place a few lemon slices over the chicken and vegetables to infuse a light, zesty flavor while baking. - Bake:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the vegetables are tender. - Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley, and serve straight from the dish for a hassle-free, one-pan meal.
Notes
- Other Vegetables: Feel free to swap in other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli.
- Extra Flavor: For more depth, add a splash of balsamic vinegar over the vegetables before baking.
- Serve With: This dish pairs well with crusty bread or a side of rice to soak up the juices.