Chicken, Avocado & Crunchy Potato Tray Bake

Treat yourself to a delightful and wholesome meal with this Chicken, Avocado & Crunchy Potato Tray Bake recipe. This easy-to-make one-pan wonder brings together tender and succulent chicken, creamy avocados, and crispy baby chat potatoes for a delectable dining experience. Enhanced with the zesty freshness of lemon and the aromatic touch of oregano, this dish is a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

PREP 10 MINS

COOK 45 MINS

SERVES 4

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 x 1.8kg chicken, cut into 8 pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra to drizzle
• 3 garlic cloves, crushed
• Salt and pepper
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 6 sprigs oregano
• 750g baby chat potatoes, halved
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 250g green beans, blanched and halved
• 2 avocados, cut into wedges
• 2 cups baby spinach leaves
• 100g fetta, crumbled

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat your oven to 220°C / 200°C fan-forced.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with olive oil, crushed garlic, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and fresh oregano sprigs. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade. Set the bowl aside to let the flavors marinate.
3. On a large oven tray, place the halved baby chat potatoes. Cook them in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crunchy.
4. Once the potatoes are golden, top them with the marinated chicken, ensuring to include the marinade and lemon slices for extra zest. Continue cooking in the oven for another 28-30 minutes or until the chicken turns golden brown and is thoroughly cooked.
5. To serve, top the tray bake with blanched and halved green beans, creamy avocado wedges, and fresh baby spinach leaves. Crumble the fetta over the tray bake for an added layer of richness and flavor. Finally, drizzle with extra olive oil to enhance the dish’s textures and taste.

TIPS:

• To make the chicken, avocado, and crunchy potato tray bake even more flavorful, consider adding your favorite herbs and spices to the marinade. For example, you can include some paprika, cumin, or dried thyme for an extra layer of depth.
• If you prefer a spicier kick to the dish, add some red chili flakes or chopped fresh chili to the marinade or sprinkle them over the tray bake before baking.
• For a healthier version, you can use skinless chicken pieces to reduce the fat content while still enjoying the delicious flavors.
• To save time on preparation, you can marinate the chicken in advance. Prepare the marinade and coat the chicken pieces, then store them in the refrigerator for a few hours or even overnight to let the flavors develop.
• Feel free to customize the vegetables in the tray bake to your liking. You can add other colorful vegetables like red bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for added nutrition and visual appeal.
• To ensure the potatoes cook evenly and become crunchy, make sure to spread them out in a single layer on the baking tray, giving them enough space to crisp up.
• Once the tray bake is ready, you can garnish it with additional fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil for a burst of freshness and color.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheated for a quick and delicious lunch or dinner the next day.
• If you’re serving the tray bake for a special occasion or guests, consider adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of sesame seeds over the dish for an elegant touch.
• This tray bake pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad to complete the meal and complement the flavors.

Enjoy experimenting with the recipe and making it your own by incorporating your favorite ingredients and flavors. With these tips, you’ll create a delightful and satisfying meal that will become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking!