Description
A flavorful Middle Eastern-inspired tray bake featuring tender chicken thighs slow-braised with aromatic spices, garlic, and a medley of vegetables. This wholesome and aromatic dish is perfect for an easy yet impressive dinner that combines baking and braising techniques for maximum flavor and tenderness.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 6 chicken thighs or drumsticks
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Vegetables
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
Sauce and Spices
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the tray bake.
- Prepare the vegetables: Arrange the sliced onion, red bell pepper, and zucchini evenly in the bottom of a baking dish to create a flavorful vegetable bed for the chicken.
- Make the sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine chicken broth, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until fully blended.
- Assemble the dish: Place the chicken thighs or drumsticks over the arranged vegetables in the baking dish. Pour the seasoned sauce evenly over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring everything is coated well.
- Braise covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes to allow the chicken to braise slowly and become tender.
- Brown the chicken: Remove the foil carefully, then bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes to brown the chicken skin, adding texture and deeper flavor.
- Garnish and serve: Once baked, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top before serving to add freshness and color.
Notes
- Adding olives or preserved lemon can enhance the traditional Middle Eastern flavor profile.
- This dish is excellent for meal prep and can be refrigerated and reheated the next day.
- Chicken breasts or wings can be substituted for thighs or drumsticks according to preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
