Looking for a delicious, easy-to-make dinner recipe that will have your family asking for seconds? This Chicken and Potato Bake is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with perfectly seasoned, crispy potatoes—all baked together in one pan. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is a must-try.

The Origin of Chicken and Potato Bakes

The combination of chicken and potatoes is as timeless as comfort food gets. While there’s no single origin for this dish, it’s reminiscent of rustic, homestyle cooking from kitchens around the world. Whether it’s a Mediterranean-inspired dish with herbs and olive oil or a hearty American casserole, the simplicity of these two ingredients makes it universally loved.

This version is tailored to be quick, customizable, and packed with flavor—ideal for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Let’s dive into the details!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe serves 4 people and requires just a handful of pantry staples:

For the Potatoes:

• 4 medium-sized potatoes, diced into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Optional Toppings:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish with non-stick spray or a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the potatoes are evenly coated with the seasoning.

Transfer the seasoned potatoes to your prepared baking dish, spreading them out in an even layer. This ensures they cook evenly and get that irresistible golden crisp.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Brush the chicken breasts with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sprinkle them with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika on both sides for a simple yet flavorful coating.

Place the chicken breasts on top of the potatoes in the baking dish. This setup allows the juices from the chicken to flavor the potatoes as they bake.

Step 4: Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the chicken moist. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.

After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes, if using. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the potatoes are golden and tender.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

Serve this dish with a crisp side salad, roasted vegetables, or a slice of crusty bread to round out the meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: This one-pan recipe minimizes prep time and cleanup.
• Bursting with Flavor: A perfect balance of herbs, spices, and cheesy goodness.
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for a personalized touch.
• Family-Friendly: A guaranteed crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

1. Crispier Potatoes: To achieve maximum crispiness, toss the potatoes halfway through baking to ensure even browning.
2. Make Ahead: Prep the chicken and potatoes in advance and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, simply assemble and bake.
3. Boost the Flavor: Drizzle the finished dish with garlic butter, ranch dressing, or honey mustard for an extra layer of deliciousness.

Common Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Bone-in or boneless chicken thighs work well in this recipe. Just adjust the baking time as thighs may take slightly longer to cook.

What other vegetables can I add?

Carrots, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers make excellent additions. Toss them with the same seasoning as the potatoes before adding them to the dish.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until warmed through.

Conclusion

This Chicken and Potato Bake is a simple yet satisfying recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or casual entertaining. With its crispy, seasoned potatoes and tender, juicy chicken, it’s a dish that’s sure to earn a permanent spot in your meal rotation.

Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to make it your own with your favorite toppings and veggies. Let us know how it turns out in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you! 🍗🥔✨