Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake is a simple, one-pan recipe that’s full of flavor and perfect for a fuss-free dinner. This dish combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs, all roasted together for a satisfying, hearty meal. With minimal prep and easy cleanup, it’s a fantastic option for weeknight meals or relaxed gatherings.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in a single tray.
Flavorful and Juicy: Roasting keeps the chicken tender and juicy.

Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and quick prep.
Versatile: Customize with different vegetables and herbs.
Family-Friendly: A wholesome meal that everyone will enjoy.

What is Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake?

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake is a one-pan dish that includes chicken pieces, vegetables, and fresh herbs, all roasted together. The flavors meld beautifully, making this a balanced, savory, and satisfying meal.

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Ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or other chicken pieces)

2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for flavor)

2-3 garlic cloves, crushed
1 large onion, sliced
1 bell pepper, sliced

1 zucchini, sliced into rounds
200g cherry tomatoes
1 handful of baby potatoes, halved

Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs
1 lemon, sliced (optional, for garnish)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a large bowl, place the chicken thighs. Drizzle with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika (if using), and crushed garlic. Toss to coat the chicken thoroughly with the seasoning.

Step 3: Arrange the Vegetables on the Tray

In a large roasting tray, arrange the sliced onion, bell pepper, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and baby potatoes. Season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil, then toss to coat. Spread the vegetables evenly on the tray.

Step 4: Add the Chicken and Herbs

Nestle the seasoned chicken thighs among the vegetables on the tray. Add fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for extra flavor. Arrange lemon slices around the tray if using.

Step 5: Bake

Place the tray in the preheated oven and roast for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through, the skin is golden, and the vegetables are tender. For crispier chicken skin, you can turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.

Step 6: Serve

Remove the tray from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for garnish. Serve the chicken and vegetables warm, directly from the tray.

What to Serve with Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake

Crusty Bread: Great for soaking up the juices.
Green Salad: A fresh salad adds balance to the hearty meal.
Rice or Couscous: Serve on the side for a complete meal.

Steamed Broccoli: Adds a healthy green option to the plate.
Garlic Yogurt Sauce: A creamy dip complements the roasted flavors.

Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake

Use Bone-In, Skin-On Chicken: This helps keep the chicken moist and flavorful.

Adjust Vegetables: Swap or add veggies like carrots, mushrooms, or sweet potatoes.
Don’t Overcrowd the Tray: Spread everything out in a single layer for even roasting.
Broil for Extra Crispiness: A quick broil at the end crisps up the chicken skin nicely.

Fresh Herbs for Flavor: Thyme and rosemary add a fragrant touch to the dish.

Variations of Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake

Add Sausage: Include sliced sausage for added flavor and variety.
Mediterranean Style: Add olives, feta, and a sprinkle of oregano.

Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or fresh chili for a hint of spice.
Lemon-Honey Glaze: Drizzle a mixture of lemon juice and honey over the chicken before baking.
Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for firm tofu or chickpeas for a veggie version.

How to Store Leftover Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

How to Reheat Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake

In the Oven: Reheat at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
In the Microwave: Microwave in a microwave-safe dish for 1-2 minutes, stirring in between.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

Calories: 380 kcal
Protein: 25g
Fat: 20g

Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 4g

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs in Jamie Oliver’s chicken tray bake?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used instead of thighs, but they cook faster and may dry out. To prevent this, add them to the tray about 15-20 minutes into cooking or bake the dish for a shorter time, checking for doneness.

What vegetables work well in a chicken tray bake?

Vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, potatoes, carrots, and onions work well in a chicken tray bake. Root vegetables like carrots and potatoes add heartiness, while softer vegetables like zucchini and tomatoes contribute moisture and flavor.

How do I keep chicken moist when baking it with vegetables?

Using bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces helps retain moisture. Adding olive oil and seasoning well also keeps the chicken tender. If using boneless chicken, cover the tray with foil for part of the cooking time, then uncover for the last 10-15 minutes to allow the chicken to brown.

Can I make Jamie Oliver’s chicken tray bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients in advance by seasoning the chicken and chopping the vegetables. Store everything in the refrigerator until ready to bake. For best results, bake just before serving to keep the vegetables and chicken skin crisp.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake is a simple yet delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken, roasted vegetables, and a hint of fresh herbs, this one-pan dish is as easy as it is flavorful. Serve it with crusty bread or a light salad, and enjoy a satisfying, homemade dinner with minimal fuss!

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