There’s something truly special about a one-pan meal that brings together simple ingredients in the most delicious way. This Chicken and Potato Bake is one of those recipes that you’ll find yourself making again and again. With perfectly seasoned potatoes, tender chicken, and a touch of melted cheese, it’s a no-fuss dinner that satisfies every craving.
Whether you need an easy weeknight meal or something hearty for Sunday dinner, this dish has you covered. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—swap out the seasonings, add extra veggies, or switch up the cheese to make it your own. If you love meals that are both effortless and flavorful, this recipe is about to become a staple in your home.
Let’s dive into the details and get this delicious dish in the oven!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Potato Bake
- One-Pan Simplicity – Fewer dishes mean less cleanup!
- Full of Flavor – A perfect mix of seasonings brings out the best in both the chicken and potatoes.
- Customizable – Add veggies, swap the cheese, or use chicken thighs instead of breasts.
- Hearty & Filling – The combination of tender chicken and roasted potatoes makes for a satisfying meal.
Now, let’s get started with the first steps of the recipe!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Before anything else, set your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when it’s time to bake. You’ll also want to prepare your baking dish—a 9×13-inch pan works perfectly for this recipe. Lightly grease it with a little olive oil or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
Step 2: Season the Potatoes
The potatoes are the foundation of this dish, so you’ll want them to be well-seasoned and evenly roasted. Here’s how to get them just right:
- Start by dicing four medium potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Keeping the pieces uniform helps them cook evenly.
- In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This helps them crisp up in the oven.
- Add the seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds a subtle smoky depth)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- Give everything a good mix so the potatoes are evenly coated in the seasoning blend.
- Spread the potatoes in the prepared baking dish, making sure they are in an even layer for even cooking.
The combination of garlic, paprika, and herbs creates an irresistible flavor that makes the potatoes just as delicious as the chicken.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
Now, let’s get the chicken ready! You can use either boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs—both work beautifully in this recipe.
- Brush the chicken with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to help it stay juicy while baking.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a little extra paprika to enhance the flavor.
- Place the seasoned chicken on top of the potatoes in the baking dish.
By placing the chicken on top, it allows the juices to drip down, infusing the potatoes with even more flavor as they cook.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Tender
Now that your chicken and potatoes are prepped and perfectly seasoned, it’s time to get them in the oven.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to help the potatoes cook through while keeping the chicken moist.
- Place the dish in your preheated 400°F (200°C) oven and bake for 30 minutes.
Covering the dish at this stage helps the potatoes soften while allowing the chicken to cook evenly without drying out.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
After the first 30 minutes of baking, it’s time to uncover the dish and let everything get beautifully golden and crispy. If you’re adding cheese, this is the perfect moment!
- Remove the foil and check that the potatoes are starting to soften.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the potatoes (if using).
- For a different flavor, try mozzarella or Parmesan instead.
- Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until:
- The cheese is melted and bubbly (if added).
- The potatoes are golden and fork-tender.
- The chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
Leaving the dish uncovered at this stage allows the potatoes to crisp up slightly while ensuring the chicken stays juicy.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once the bake is done, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This short waiting period helps the juices settle, making every bite even more flavorful.
Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Now, it’s time to enjoy this warm, hearty meal!
Serving Suggestions and Variations
This chicken and potato bake is already packed with flavor, but here are some ways to make it even more exciting:
- Pair it with a side salad – A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
- Serve with roasted veggies – Roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots complement the flavors beautifully.
- Add a side of crusty bread – Perfect for soaking up the delicious juices at the bottom of the pan.
Want to mix things up? Try these variations:
- Swap cheddar for mozzarella or Parmesan for a different cheesy twist.
- Add sliced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for extra veggies.
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, more flavorful result.
With these simple tweaks, you can make this recipe feel fresh and new every time you cook it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cooking a dish like this Chicken and Potato Bake is simple, but you might have a few questions before you get started. Here are some common ones that will help ensure your meal turns out perfectly every time.
1. Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?
Yes! Bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks work well, but you may need to increase the cooking time by about 10–15 minutes. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving.
2. How do I make the potatoes extra crispy?
For crispier potatoes, try these tips:
- Cut them into smaller pieces (around ½-inch cubes) so they crisp up faster.
- Spread them out evenly in the baking dish to avoid overcrowding.
- Broil for the last 3–5 minutes of baking for an extra golden crust.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep everything in advance by seasoning the potatoes and chicken, then storing them in the fridge for a few hours before baking. If you bake it ahead of time, store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
4. What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat:
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
5. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! This recipe is very flexible. Try adding sliced bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms to the pan for extra flavor and nutrition.
6. What other seasonings can I use?
Feel free to experiment with your favorite seasonings! Some great options include Italian seasoning, Cajun spice, or even a dash of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Potato Bake is everything you need in a comforting, easy-to-make meal. With minimal prep, one pan, and a whole lot of flavor, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. The combination of tender chicken, well-seasoned potatoes, and optional melted cheese makes this dish a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.
If you try this recipe, let us know how it turns out! Feel free to share any variations you’ve made—we love hearing about different twists on this classic dish. Enjoy!
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Chicken and Potato Bake
Description
This hearty and flavorful chicken and potato bake is a simple yet satisfying meal. The potatoes are perfectly seasoned, the chicken is juicy, and the optional cheddar cheese adds a deliciously creamy touch.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 4 medium potatoes, diced into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2️⃣ Season the Potatoes
In a large bowl, toss the diced potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Spread the seasoned potatoes evenly in the baking dish.
3️⃣ Prepare the Chicken
Brush the chicken breasts with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and season with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and paprika.
Place the chicken on top of the potatoes in the baking dish.
4️⃣ Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes (if using), and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature) and the potatoes are golden and tender.
5️⃣ Serve
Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Pair with a side salad, roasted veggies, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- You can swap cheddar cheese for mozzarella or Parmesan for a different flavor.
- Try adding bell peppers or carrots for extra veggies.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days—just reheat in the oven or microwave.
