There’s something incredibly satisfying about a hearty, homemade meal that comes together effortlessly. This Chicken and Potato Bake is a perfect choice for busy weeknights, offering a balance of protein, carbs, and vegetables in a single dish. The combination of tender chicken, crispy potatoes, and flavorful green beans makes for a comforting and delicious meal.
The best part? This dish requires minimal prep time, as everything is layered in a baking dish and cooked to golden perfection in the oven. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a family-friendly meal that’s both filling and nutritious.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Resting Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
To prepare this dish, you’ll need:
- 2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 3-5 small to medium potatoes, diced
- 1 ½ cans (about 22 oz) green beans, drained
- 1 packet dry Italian dressing mix
- 1 stick (½ cup) butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky touch)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
- Wash and dice the potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients, or peel them for a smoother finish.
- Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Drain the green beans thoroughly.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
- Arrange the potatoes on one side of the baking dish.
- Place the chicken cubes in the middle section.
- Add the drained green beans to the remaining section.
This layering method allows for each component to cook evenly while keeping the flavors distinct.
Step 4: Season the Dish
- Sprinkle the entire dish with dry Italian dressing mix to enhance the flavor.
- Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika for additional seasoning.
- Pour the melted butter evenly over the ingredients, ensuring everything is well-coated.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 40 minutes, allowing the ingredients to soften and absorb the seasonings.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for 20 more minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
- If you prefer a crispier finish, broil the dish for 3-5 minutes at the end of cooking.
Step 6: Let It Rest & Serve
Once out of the oven, let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the juices to redistribute.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken and Potato Bake is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with:
- A side salad with a light vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or a warm dinner roll
- A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of ranch dressing for extra creaminess
For a touch of freshness, garnish the dish with chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Vegetable Substitutions: Instead of green beans, try using broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers for variety.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Sprinkle grated cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the top before baking uncovered for a gooey, melty finish.
- Spicy Twist: If you love heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to spice it up.
- Make it Ahead: You can prep this dish a day in advance, store it covered in the refrigerator, and bake it when ready.
This Chicken and Potato Bake is the ultimate go-to recipe when you need a quick, flavorful, and wholesome meal for the family. The combination of juicy chicken, crispy roasted potatoes, and tender green beans creates a delightful balance of textures and flavors. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make with minimal cleanup!
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this one-pan dish will quickly become a favorite in your household. Try it today and enjoy a comforting homemade meal with little effort!