Baked Garlic Chicken and Potatoes is a cosy, flavour-packed meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend family dinners. Featuring tender chicken thighs infused with the robust flavours of garlic, a hint of heat from the cayenne, and the heartiness of potatoes, this dish is as delicious as it is nourishing.
The red onion adds a hint of sweetness, while the scallions bring a fresh, vibrant touch to each bite. Not only is this dish wholesome and satisfying, but it’s also incredibly easy to make, making it a go-to recipe that pleases everyone at the table. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Set out a large baking dish or rimmed baking sheet, preferably one that is big enough to allow the ingredients to spread in a single layer for even roasting. Peel and quarter the potatoes, and cut the red onion into quarters. This allows both vegetables to roast evenly alongside the chicken. In a large mixing bowl, add the chicken thighs, quartered potatoes, and red onion.
Drizzle the olive oil over the ingredients, making sure to coat everything evenly. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, cayenne chilli powder, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until well combined, ensuring the seasonings cover both the chicken and the vegetables. Massage the spices into the chicken skin to enhance flavour absorption and create a golden, flavorful crust during roasting.
Transfer the seasoned chicken, potatoes, and onion to your prepared baking dish, arranging the chicken thighs with the skin side facing up for maximum crispiness. Spread the potatoes and onions around the chicken thighs in a single layer to allow proper airflow and even cooking.
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. This cooking time may vary depending on the size of your chicken thighs and the accuracy of your oven temperature. Halfway through cooking, use a spatula to turn the potatoes and onions to help them brown evenly. Check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C) when done.
The skin should be golden brown and crispy, and the potatoes should be fork-tender. Once fully cooked, remove the baking dish from the oven. Sprinkle the chopped scallions over the chicken and potatoes for a fresh, vibrant finish. Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving.
This brief resting time helps keep the juices in the chicken.
Expert Tips for Success:
Achieve Crispy Chicken Skin: For the crispiest skin, ensure the chicken is well-dried before adding oil and seasoning. Pat the thighs dry with a paper towel, as any excess moisture can hinder browning.
Avoid Overcrowding: Spreading the ingredients in a single layer with space between each item helps achieve even roasting and prevents steaming.
Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavour, reduce the cayenne powder, or replace it with smoked paprika for a milder warmth with a smoky depth.
Rotate During Roasting: Turning the potatoes and onions halfway ensures they cook evenly, developing a nice golden crust.
Customization Ideas and Variations:
Alternative Proteins: Swap the chicken thighs with drumsticks, chicken breasts, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Adjust cooking times based on your protein choice; chicken breasts may need slightly less time.
Herb and Spice Variations: Add other herbs like rosemary or thyme for a more aromatic flavour. Fresh garlic can replace garlic powder, providing an intense and fresh garlic taste.
Vegetable Additions: Add carrots, bell peppers, or even Brussels sprouts for added colour and nutrients. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly with the potatoes.
Low-Carb Option: Replace the potatoes with low-carb vegetables like cauliflower florets or zucchini for a lighter meal with similar flavours.
Serving Suggestions:
Baked Garlic Chicken and Potatoes pair beautifully with simple, fresh sides to balance its savoury richness:
Green Salad: A crisp green salad with arugula, spinach, and a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the dish.
Steamed Green Beans: For a classic touch, serve with lightly steamed green beans or sautéed asparagus, enhancing both colour and nutrition.
Garlic Bread: For a heartier meal, include a side of warm garlic bread to soak up any juices from the chicken and potatoes.
Rice or Quinoa: If you’d like a grain to complete the dish, try fluffy rice or quinoa for a complete, satisfying meal.
Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips:
Storage: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes or until heated through. This method helps maintain the crispiness of the chicken skin.
Make-Ahead: Marinate the chicken, potatoes, and onions with the seasonings up to 24 hours in advance. When ready to cook, simply place them in a baking dish and bake as directed.
This Baked Garlic Chicken and Potatoes dish is an ideal recipe for bringing friends and family together around a warm, delicious meal. With its blend of hearty flavours and vibrant garnishes, this meal is sure to be a hit, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with loved ones.
Give it a try, and enjoy the irresistible flavours of garlic, tender chicken, and crispy potatoes—it’s comfort food at its finest.
Ingredients;
- 6 to 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 lb (450g) potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1 red onion, quartered
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon hot cayenne chilli powder
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh scallion
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
