Chicken and Potato Bake

### **How to Make Chicken and Potato Bake**

#### **Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients**
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse and pat dry the chicken pieces. If using bone-in chicken, trim any excess fat for a cleaner presentation.
3. Wash and dice the potatoes into evenly sized chunks to ensure even cooking.

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#### **Step 2: Season the Chicken and Potatoes**
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, thyme or rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
2. Add the chicken pieces and potatoes to the bowl, tossing them until evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.

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#### **Step 3: Assemble the Bake**
1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Arrange the seasoned chicken pieces and potatoes in the dish, spreading them out evenly. For crispy potatoes, ensure they’re in a single layer around the chicken.

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#### **Step 4: Bake the Dish**
1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the potatoes are fork-tender.
2. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes during the last 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy twist.

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#### **Step 5: Garnish and Serve**
1. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and added flavor.
3. Serve the Chicken and Potato Bake straight from the dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

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### **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**

– **One-Pan Wonder:** This recipe minimizes cleanup by cooking everything in a single dish.
– **Customizable:** You can add vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to the bake for a more colorful and nutritious meal.
– **Family-Friendly:** The simple, familiar flavors of chicken and potatoes appeal to both kids and adults alike.
– **Budget-Friendly:** This recipe uses affordable, everyday ingredients that are easy to find.
– **Make-Ahead Option:** Assemble the dish in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake, making it perfect for busy evenings.

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### **Tips for the Best Chicken and Potato Bake**

1. **Use Bone-In Chicken for Juiciness:** Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks retain more moisture and flavor during baking. If using boneless chicken, reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid drying it out.
2. **Cut Potatoes Evenly:** Ensure your potato chunks are roughly the same size to ensure even cooking.
3. **Crispy Potatoes:** For extra crispy potatoes, bake the dish uncovered and stir the potatoes halfway through cooking.
4. **Enhance the Flavor:** Add a splash of lemon juice or sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the dish before serving for a flavor boost.
5. **Double the Recipe:** This dish can easily be scaled up to feed a crowd by using a larger baking dish or sheet pan.

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### **Conclusion**

**Chicken and Potato Bake** is the ultimate comfort food that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. With its tender, flavorful chicken and perfectly roasted potatoes, this dish is a guaranteed hit for any meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or simply looking for a satisfying dinner idea, this recipe delivers every time. Try it out tonight and enjoy the simple, wholesome flavors of this classic favorite!