If you’re looking for a fuss-free, flavorful dinner that’s easy to prepare and clean up, this one-pan baked chicken with vegetables and cheese is the perfect solution. Combining tender chicken with a medley of colorful vegetables, rich tomato sauce, and optional melted mozzarella, this dish is both hearty and nutritious. Ideal for busy weeknights or a casual family meal, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients:
- 1 kilogram of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Butter for greasing the pan
- 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)
Instructions:
- Get the Oven Ready: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to preheat.Grease a large baking dish or pan with butter to prevent sticking and add extra flavor.
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken fillets generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. If using large fillets, you may want to cut them into smaller pieces for quicker cooking.
- Prepare the Vegetables: In the greased baking dish, arrange the chopped onion, minced garlic, bell peppers, halved tomatoes, and cubed potatoes. Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil and season with salt, black pepper, and Provençal herbs (or Italian seasoning).
- Add the Chicken: Nestle the seasoned chicken fillets among the vegetables in the baking dish, ensuring the chicken is in direct contact with the pan to allow for even cooking.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the tomato sauce and water. Pour this mixture over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring everything is evenly coated. This will help keep the chicken moist and infuse the vegetables with flavor as they bake.
- Bake the Dish: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C) and the potatoes are tender. If you’re adding mozzarella cheese, sprinkle it over the top of the chicken and vegetables during the last 10 minutes of baking, allowing it to melt and become bubbly.
- Serve: Once baked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. The chicken should be juicy, and the vegetables should be tender and flavorful, with the option of melted cheese adding an extra layer of richness. Serve directly from the baking dish for a rustic presentation.
Conclusion:
This one-pan baked chicken with vegetables and cheese is the epitome of a simple yet satisfying meal. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and the rich tomato sauce creates a dish that’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare and clean up. The option to add mozzarella cheese adds a touch of indulgence, making this dish perfect for both busy weeknights and cozy weekends. Enjoy this wholesome, hearty meal with your loved ones and relish the flavors of a home-cooked dinner made effortlessly.