Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and simplify your cooking with this mouthwatering Spanish Chicken Tray Bake! Imagine crispy, golden chicken thighs nestled among roasted vegetables and protein-packed chickpeas, all bursting with smoky Spanish-inspired flavors. This recipe is not just a meal; it's a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious solution for those busy weeknight dinners that will make your family think you've been secretly training as a professional chef.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: Spanish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 can chickpeas, drained
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, making sure to coat evenly.
- Slice the red onion and bell pepper into thin, even strips. Mince the garlic cloves finely to distribute flavor throughout the dish.
- Spread the sliced onions and bell peppers across the baking tray in an even layer. Drain the chickpeas and scatter them around the vegetables.
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up on top of the vegetables and chickpeas. The skin should be exposed to ensure it becomes golden and crispy.
- Drizzle olive oil over the entire tray, ensuring the vegetables and chicken are lightly coated. Sprinkle the minced garlic over the tray for additional flavor.
- Place the tray in the preheated oven and roast for 35-40 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and have a golden, crispy skin.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender chicken.
- Serve hot directly from the tray, with the roasted vegetables and crispy chickpeas as a delicious accompaniment.
Tips
- Pat the chicken thighs completely dry before seasoning to guarantee that irresistibly crispy skin.
- Use high-quality smoked paprika for an authentic Spanish flavor profile.
- Ensure even-sized vegetable cuts for uniform roasting.
- Don't overcrowd the baking tray - give ingredients enough space to caramelize properly.
- Use a meat thermometer to check chicken doneness - aim for 165°F (74°C) internal temperature.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving.
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum flavor and moisture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 90mg
