This Chicken and Potato Bake is one of those timeless, heart-warming dishes that brings everyone to the table. Tender chicken, soft golden potatoes, and a savoury, creamy seasoning come together in a single pan, making it ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed Sunday meals. What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity—minimal prep, no complicated techniques, and yet the result tastes as though you spent hours in the kitchen. I’ve even tried swapping the cream for almond milk once, and to my surprise, it worked beautifully while keeping the dish lighter. Whether you are a seasoned cook or just starting out, this bake offers versatility, comfort, and reliable deliciousness. It also reheats well, making it an excellent option for meal prepping. Serve it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Chicken and Potato Bake: A Comforting, One-Pan Family Favourite
- Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A comforting and hearty chicken and potato bake featuring tender chicken pieces, seasoned potatoes, and a creamy, savory sauce baked until golden.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly browned. Set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Add potatoes to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Simmer for 2 minutes.
- Transfer the potato mixture to the baking dish and place chicken breasts on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
- Remove foil, sprinkle cheddar cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, mix in mushrooms or spinach.
- Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier result.
- Use half-and-half instead of cream for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 55 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll appreciate this Chicken and Potato Bake for its ease and consistent results. It turns simple ingredients into a hearty, flavourful meal that appeals to all ages. The one-pan method reduces cleanup, and the recipe adapts well to various dietary preferences and substitutions.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken
Chicken breasts or thighs work well in this recipe. Thighs tend to stay juicier during baking, while breasts keep the dish lighter. Choose whichever suits your preference, but ensure they are cut evenly to promote consistent cooking.
Potatoes
Use waxy potatoes for the best texture—they hold their shape and become wonderfully tender. The potatoes absorb the seasoned juices from the chicken, making every bite rich and flavourful.
Onion
The onion adds sweetness and depth as it cooks down. It complements both the chicken and potatoes, rounding out the overall flavour.
Garlic
Fresh garlic enhances the savoury notes and infuses the dish with warmth. You may adjust the amount depending on how bold you prefer the garlic flavour.
Olive Oil
Olive oil helps brown the potatoes and chicken while adding a subtle richness. It also ensures the seasoning coats all ingredients evenly.
Paprika
Paprika lends a mild smokiness and a warm colour. It also enriches the flavour profile without overpowering the other ingredients.
Dried Thyme
Thyme pairs beautifully with poultry and vegetables, offering an aromatic herbal note that enhances the earthiness of the potatoes.
Salt and Pepper
Salt and pepper are essential for balancing and heightening all flavours in the dish. Season generously but mindfully.
Cream or Milk
A splash of cream or milk brings moisture and mild richness to the bake. As mentioned earlier, I have successfully used almond milk with excellent results.
Directions
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F and lightly greasing a medium-sized baking dish. Slice the potatoes into even rounds and arrange them in the base of the dish. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme, then toss lightly to ensure every piece is coated. Spread the onions and garlic over the potatoes for added depth. Next, prepare the chicken by seasoning it with salt, pepper, and additional paprika. Place the chicken pieces over the potatoes, allowing the juices to baste the layers underneath as they cook. Pour a small amount of cream or milk around the edges—not over the chicken—so the potatoes soften without washing off the seasoning. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20–25 minutes until the chicken turns golden and the potatoes are fully tender. Allow the bake to rest briefly before serving to help the flavours settle.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Servings and timingHere’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes approximately 15 minutes, and baking requires 55–60 minutes, depending on your oven and the thickness of ingredients.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual servings. The bake retains moisture well, though adding a splash of milk before reheating can refresh the texture.
Variations and Customizations
Add Vegetables
Introduce carrots, bell peppers, or peas for added colour and nutrition.
Use Different Herbs
Swap thyme for rosemary, sage, or Italian seasoning to shift the flavour profile.
Make It Cheesy
Sprinkle grated cheddar or mozzarella during the last ten minutes of baking for a richer finish.
Swap the Potatoes
Try sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter, more nutrient-dense version.
Add Heat
A pinch of chilli flakes or cayenne adds a warm kick without overwhelming the dish.
Creamy Mushroom Version
Stir in sliced mushrooms and increase the cream slightly for a deeper, earthier flavour.
Lemon and Herb
Add lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice for a brighter, fresher twist.
Garlic Butter Upgrade
Mix melted butter with extra garlic and pour it over the chicken before baking.
Crispy Topping
Add breadcrumbs or crushed crackers during the final minutes for a crunchy top.
Dairy-Free
Use almond milk or coconut milk to make the dish suitable for dairy-free diets.
FAQs
How do I keep the chicken from drying out?
Use thighs or ensure breasts are not overbaked by checking early.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it earlier in the day and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, freeze for up to three months and reheat in the oven.
How thin should I slice the potatoes?
Slice them about ¼ inch thick for even cooking.
Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, but adjust the baking time to ensure full doneness.
What herbs work best here?
Thyme, rosemary, and parsley all complement this dish well.
Conclusion
This Chicken and Potato Bake is a dependable, comforting dish that transforms everyday ingredients into a satisfying meal. Its simplicity invites creativity, whether through herbs, vegetables, or alternative dairy options. With minimal preparation and universal appeal, it is a recipe worth keeping in your regular rotation.
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