Baked Garlic Chicken and Potatoes

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Baked Garlic Chicken and Potatoes

Baked Garlic Chicken and Potatoes is the perfect one-pan dinner: cozy, flavorful, and incredibly simple to prepare. Tender, juicy chicken thighs roast alongside golden potatoes and sweet red onion, all infused with bold garlic and a gentle heat from cayenne pepper. Finished with a sprinkle of scallions for freshness, this dish brings wholesome comfort to the dinner table in under an hour.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or planning a hearty weekend meal, this easy baked chicken recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite. Best of all, it uses just a few pantry staples for big, satisfying flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple one-pan meal – Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
  • Crispy chicken skin – Roasted to perfection for a golden, crackling finish.
  • Customizable – Swap the protein, change the veggies, or adjust the spice to fit your preferences.
  • Family-friendly – Mild yet flavorful, with an option to reduce or boost the heat.

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 garlic powder (or substitute with 4 fresh minced garlic cloves)
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped scallions, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a large rimmed baking dish or sheet pan. Ensure it’s big enough for the ingredients to spread out in a single layer, which helps them roast rather than steam.

2. Prepare the Ingredients

Peel and quarter the potatoes. Cut the red onion into quarters. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken thighs, potatoes, and red onion.

3. Season Everything

Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture and sprinkle with garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to toss everything together until evenly coated. Massage the seasoning into the chicken skin for deep flavor and a crisp finish.

4. Arrange in the Baking Dish

Place the chicken thighs skin-side up in the baking dish. Spread the potatoes and onions around them in a single layer for even cooking and browning.

5. Bake to Perfection

Roast for 40 to 45 minutes, turning the potatoes and onions halfway through for even browning. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the skin is golden and crisp.

6. Finish and Serve

Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped scallions. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute in the chicken.

Expert Tips for Success

  • Pat the chicken dry before seasoning for the crispiest skin.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan — space ensures even roasting.
  • Lower the heat by using smoked paprika instead of cayenne.
  • Add veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts for extra flavor and nutrition.

Customization Ideas

  • Protein options: Try drumsticks, chicken breasts (reduce bake time slightly), or tofu for a vegetarian version.
  • Flavor twists: Add rosemary, thyme, or oregano for an herby variation.
  • Low-carb swap: Use cauliflower or zucchini in place of potatoes.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with light and fresh sides:

  • Simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette
  • Steamed green beans or sautéed asparagus
  • Garlic bread for soaking up those flavorful juices
  • Quinoa or rice for a hearty, balanced meal

Storage and Reheating

  • Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15 minutes to maintain crispness.
  • Make-ahead: You can marinate the chicken, potatoes, and onion up to 24 hours in advance. When ready to cook, just bake as directed.

Final Thoughts

Baked Garlic Chicken and Potatoes brings together bold flavors, simple ingredients, and hearty comfort in one easy dish. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels like home — perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Add it to your weekly rotation and enjoy the irresistible combination of garlicky chicken, crispy potatoes, and roasted onion goodness.

 

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