Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake is the ultimate one-pan dish that combines simplicity, flavor, and convenience. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious and hassle-free, with minimal cleanup required.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake is a quintessential example of his style: fuss-free, family-friendly, and packed with vibrant flavors. This dish features chicken pieces (often bone-in, skin-on for extra flavor), paired with an array of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, potatoes, onions, and tomatoes.

These ingredients are seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices, such as rosemary, thyme, and garlic, then roasted in a single tray in the oven. The result is tender, juicy chicken with caramelized vegetables that soak up all the savory juices from the chicken. It’s a wonderfully comforting meal that’s hearty, nutritious, and visually appealing.

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake Recipe

Ingredients Needed

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Here’s a breakdown of the typical ingredients:

1. Chicken Pieces: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks work best, though you can also use chicken breasts if you prefer.
2. Vegetables: A mix of potatoes (peeled and chopped), bell peppers (any color), red onions, and cherry tomatoes adds freshness and sweetness.
3. Herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme provide aromatic, earthy flavors. Fresh garlic cloves can be minced or crushed.
4. Olive Oil: For drizzling over the ingredients to ensure a crisp, golden finish.
5. Lemon: A burst of citrus adds brightness to balance the richness of the chicken and vegetables.
6. Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
7. Optional Add-ins: Some versions include olives, capers, or even a sprinkling of parmesan cheese for an extra depth of flavor.

Equipment Needed

This is a one-pan wonder, so you don’t need much in terms of equipment, just the basics:

1. Roasting Tray: A large baking tray or sheet pan is essential for spreading out the chicken and vegetables evenly.
2. Sharp Knife: For chopping the vegetables and cutting the chicken (if necessary).
3. Chopping Board: A stable surface for prepping your ingredients.
4. Measuring Spoon (optional): For accurately measuring herbs or oil, though you can also eyeball it.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake?

Making this dish is incredibly simple, and it’s practically foolproof. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating this scrumptious meal:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to around 200°C (or 400°F).
2. Prepare the Chicken: If you’re using whole chicken thighs or drumsticks, pat them dry with paper towels to help them crisp up in the oven. Rub them with olive oil, then season generously with salt, pepper, and your choice of dried herbs (or fresh if you have them). You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra zest.
3. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and chop the vegetables. Cut the potatoes into even chunks, slice the bell peppers into strips, and halve the tomatoes. Add them to your tray along with the garlic and herbs. Drizzle a little olive oil over the veggies, and season with salt, pepper, and more lemon juice if desired.
4. Arrange on the Tray: Lay the chicken pieces in the center of the tray and scatter the vegetables around it, making sure everything is evenly distributed. This ensures that the chicken’s juices will soak into the veggies, infusing them with flavor as they cook.
5. Roast: Pop the tray into the preheated oven and roast for 40-50 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, with the skin crispy. Make sure the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Serve: Once everything is cooked to perfection, remove the tray from the oven. You can serve the chicken directly from the tray or transfer everything to a large serving platter. Garnish with fresh herbs or a wedge of lemon for added freshness.

Expert Tips

• Bone-In Chicken: Always opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken for the best flavor and texture. The bone helps the meat stay juicy, while the skin crisps up nicely during roasting.
• Even Veggie Sizing: Try to chop your vegetables into similar-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly and at the same rate as the chicken.
• Customization: Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have in the fridge. Zucchini, carrots, or parsnips work wonderfully in this dish as well.
• Rest the Chicken: Once the tray comes out of the oven, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps redistribute the juices within the meat, making it even more tender.
• Meal Prep: This tray bake makes an excellent meal prep option. You can roast the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the fridge for a few days. Simply reheat it when you’re ready to eat.

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake is an easy-to-make, versatile dish that delivers on flavor without requiring much effort or cleanup. Whether you’re cooking for a family, entertaining guests, or just enjoying a cozy meal at home, this recipe is sure to impress.

The best part is its flexibility-use whatever vegetables you like, adjust the seasoning to your preference, and enjoy the deliciously crispy chicken and tender, roasted vegetables. It’s comfort food at its finest!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake is one of those dishes that can be personalized in so many ways, making it not only a go-to comfort food but also an incredibly versatile meal. Whether you’re looking to change up the flavors, include some seasonal produce, or even make it a bit healthier, there are countless variations to consider.

1. Vegetarian Version

   • Swap out the chicken for hearty, roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, cauliflower, and chickpeas. You can also use tofu or tempeh for a protein-packed, plant-based alternative. Keep the same seasoning but feel free to experiment with a bit of smoked paprika or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

2. Different Herbs And Spices

   • Jamie’s classic recipe often features rosemary and thyme, but you can shake things up by adding fresh basil, oregano, or sage. For a more exotic twist, try using cumin, coriander, and turmeric to create a vibrant, spiced flavor profile.
   • Add a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of harissa for a bit of heat.

3. Mediterranean-Inspired

   • For a Mediterranean flair, try using ingredients like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, artichokes, and feta cheese. Swap out the usual roast vegetables for zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers, and top everything off with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of oregano.

4. Barbecue Chicken Tray Bake

   • If you’re craving something with a smoky flavor, why not coat the chicken with a generous amount of BBQ sauce? Throw in some corn on the cob, red onions, and bell peppers, and let the whole tray bake in the sauce for a sticky, caramelized finish.

5. Asian-Inspired Version

   • Replace the rosemary and thyme with ginger, garlic, and soy sauce for an Asian twist. You can add some sesame seeds, green onions, and chili peppers for extra flavor and crunch. You might even want to toss in some bok choy or baby spinach towards the end of cooking for added freshness.

6. Citrus Chicken Tray Bake

   • Use lemon, lime, and even orange zest to brighten up the dish. Add some fresh citrus juice and slices of citrus fruits to roast with the chicken. The tangy freshness of the citrus will balance the richness of the chicken beautifully.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake is a perfect dish for leftovers, especially since it keeps its flavor and texture well when properly stored. Here’s how you can maximize the shelf life and ensure the leftovers are as delicious as the original meal.

1. Cooling Before Storing

   • Allow the tray bake to cool down to room temperature before storing it in the fridge. Putting hot food directly into the fridge can raise the temperature inside, which can affect the quality of other stored foods. Let it sit for no more than two hours before refrigerating.

2. Airtight Containers

   • Store the chicken and vegetables in airtight containers to preserve freshness. This helps prevent the chicken from drying out and keeps the vegetables from becoming soggy or losing flavor. Glass containers work best, as they don’t absorb odors or stain.

3. Refrigeration

   • Leftovers can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re not planning to eat the leftovers within this time, consider freezing them. Make sure the food is properly sealed to prevent freezer burn.

4. Freezing Leftovers

   • If you want to freeze the chicken tray bake, portion it into smaller servings to make reheating easier. When freezing, wrap the food in cling film or foil and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

5. Reheating

   • The best way to reheat chicken tray bake is to place it in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven method will help retain the crispy edges of the chicken and vegetables.

What Goes Well With Chicken Tray Bake?

Chicken tray bake is wonderfully flexible when it comes to pairing it with side dishes. Depending on your preferences or the theme of your meal, here are some perfect companions:

1. Garlic Bread Or Crusty Bread

   • A side of freshly baked garlic bread or a crunchy baguette complements the meal perfectly. The bread can be used to mop up any delicious juices from the tray bake, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

2. Crispy Green Salad

   • A light, fresh salad is a great contrast to the rich and hearty tray bake. Consider a simple green salad with a tangy lemon vinaigrette or a spinach salad with feta, walnuts, and cranberries for added texture and flavor.

3. Roasted Potatoes Or Mashed Potatoes

   • While the tray bake itself often includes vegetables like potatoes, you could never go wrong with an extra helping of crispy roasted potatoes. Alternatively, mashed potatoes can make for a creamy and comforting addition.

4. Steamed Vegetables

   • If you want to keep things on the lighter side, opt for steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or peas. Their fresh flavors will complement the richness of the chicken without overwhelming the meal.

5. Rice Or Couscous

   • A bowl of couscous or rice can be the perfect base to soak up any flavorful juices from the tray bake. Try a lemon and herb couscous for a bit of zest or a fragrant jasmine rice for a lovely aromatic touch.

6. Roasted Or Grilled Corn On The Cob

   • Sweet, grilled corn pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of chicken. You could roast the corn alongside the chicken or grill it separately for that perfect smoky sweetness.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake is a timeless, easy-to-make dish that offers endless possibilities for customization. Whether you want to explore different flavors, experiment with new ingredients, or try out one of the many variations, this dish has something for everyone.

It’s perfect for any occasion, from a busy weeknight to a hearty family meal. And don’t forget that it stores incredibly well for leftovers, making it a great meal prep option. No matter what you pair it with, you’ll be left with a satisfying, wholesome meal every time.

FAQs

What Ingredients Do I Need For Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake Recipe?

For Jamie Oliver’s chicken tray bake, you will need chicken pieces (such as thighs or drumsticks), potatoes, onions, garlic, carrots, peppers, and fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme. Olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional spices like paprika or chili flakes are also commonly used.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake?

The total cooking time for Jamie Oliver’s chicken tray bake is about 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken pieces. The chicken should be cooked through, golden, and crispy on the outside.

Can I Use Boneless Chicken Breasts Instead Of Thighs For Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake?

While boneless chicken breasts can be used, it’s recommended to use bone-in chicken pieces (like thighs or drumsticks) for more flavor and moisture. Boneless chicken breasts will cook faster, so you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What Vegetables Can I Use In Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake?

In addition to the suggested potatoes, carrots, and peppers, you can also add other root vegetables such as parsnips, sweet potatoes, or beets. Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes work well too.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken tray bake ahead of time by chopping the vegetables and seasoning the chicken. Store everything in the fridge for up to a day, and then bake it when you’re ready. However, for the best results, it is recommended to cook it fresh.

What Temperature Should I Bake The Chicken Tray Bake At?

The chicken tray bake should be cooked in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F). Make sure the oven is hot before placing the tray inside to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and crisps up.

Can I Add A Sauce To Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake?

While the recipe doesn’t require a sauce, you can certainly add a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of white wine before baking to create a more flavorful base. Alternatively, you can serve it with a dipping sauce like a yogurt or mustard sauce.

How Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake More Spicy?

To add some spice, you can include chili flakes or a fresh chopped chili in the recipe. You can also use a spicier seasoning mix or add a bit of smoked paprika for a smokier flavor.

Is Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake Recipe Suitable For A Gluten-free Diet?

Yes, Jamie Oliver’s chicken tray bake is naturally gluten-free as it primarily consists of chicken, vegetables, and herbs. Just make sure that any additional seasonings or ingredients, like pre-marinated chicken or sauces, are also gluten-free.

Can I Prepare Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake In A Different Type Of Pan?

Yes, you can use any large oven-safe pan or roasting tray for this recipe. A baking dish or a cast-iron skillet would work well, just ensure that the tray is large enough to spread the chicken and vegetables out evenly for proper cooking.