Weeknight dinners can be a challenge, especially when you’re looking for something both delicious and easy to prepare. One-pan meals are a fantastic solution, combining convenience with great flavor. This One-Pan Baked Chicken with Vegetables and Cheese is a perfect example. With tender chicken, a medley of vibrant vegetables, and a touch of cheesy goodness, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Minimal cleanup and maximum taste make this recipe an ideal choice for busy evenings.
Ingredients:
- 1 kg chicken fillet (breast or thighs, boneless and skinless)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Butter
- Olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bell peppers, chopped
- 7 small tomatoes, whole or halved
- 6 small potatoes, cubed
- 150 ml tomato sauce
- 100 ml water
- Salt
- Provençal herbs (or Italian seasoning)
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional)
Method:
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Season the chicken fillets with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Sear the Chicken: In a large ovenproof skillet or baking dish, heat a mix of butter and olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken fillets and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Take the chicken out of the skillet and place it aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Incorporate the chopped bell peppers and sauté for an additional 2 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cubed potatoes and whole or halved tomatoes to the skillet. Add the tomato sauce and water, then stir thoroughly to blend. Season with a pinch of salt and a generous amount of Provençal herbs or Italian seasoning.
- Bake the Dish: Nestle the seared chicken fillets back into the skillet among the vegetables. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
- Add Cheese (Optional): If using, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the dish during the last 5 minutes of baking. Let the cheese melt until it is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven. Give it a few minutes to cool down slightly before serving. This one-pan meal can be served straight from the skillet, making it a wonderfully easy and delicious dinner option.
Conclusion
One-Pan Baked Chicken with Vegetables and Cheese is a simple yet flavorful meal that requires minimal effort and cleanup. The combination of tender chicken, roasted vegetables, and melted cheese creates a comforting and satisfying dish that the whole family will love. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe offers a nutritious and delicious dinner solution that can be prepared in one pan. Enjoy the convenience and taste of this delightful one-pan meal and make dinner time a breeze.