Before diving into the deliciousness of Hit Run Baked Chicken and Veggies, let’s talk pairings. It’s all about creating a complete meal that tantalizes the taste buds, right? Consider a fluffy quinoa or a light couscous salad.
Those grains soak up juices beautifully and can really amplify the dish. A simple green salad, maybe with a tangy vinaigrette, also offers a refreshing contrast.
For a beverage, you can’t go wrong with a chilled white wine. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc brings out the flavors of the chicken and veggies.
If you’re looking for something non-alcoholic, try sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon. It’s refreshing and pairs perfectly with the savory notes of the entrée.
The Perfect Weeknight Dish
After a long day at work, there’s nothing better than coming home to a simple yet satisfying meal. That’s where my Hit Run Baked Chicken and Veggies comes in.
This dish has saved me more times than I can count. It’s quick to prepare and requires minimal cleanup, leaving you more time to unwind or catch up on your favorite show.
The best part? This recipe doesn’t skimp on flavor. Fresh vegetables mingle with juicy chicken, all kissed by spices that make your mouth water. In a world of complicated recipes, this dish stands out as a straightforward, rewarding choice.
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What is Hit Run Baked Chicken and Veggies?
Let’s break it down. Hit Run Baked Chicken and Veggies is a one-pan meal that combines chicken parts with a medley of colorful vegetables.
To make it, you simply toss everything together, season it, and let your oven do the heavy lifting. It’s a fantastic option for busy individuals or families looking for an easy dinner that doesn’t taste like it came from a rushed weeknight.
This dish fits the bill for gatherings or a soothing solo dinner. The flavors blend beautifully during baking, and the chicken emerges tender and juicy, while the vegetables soften and release their natural sweetness. What more could anyone want from a dinner plate?
What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?
Imagine biting into perfectly baked chicken with a slightly smoky flavor thanks to paprika and a subtle hint of garlic. The chicken mingles with the tang of Kalamata olives, and fresh basil provides a fragrant finish.
The roasted vegetables—think sweet cherry tomatoes, vibrant red bell peppers, and hearty potatoes—bring their own charm. Each component complements the others, creating a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate, igniting pleasant memories of family dinners.
What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Hit Run Baked Chicken and Veggies?
At first glance, it might appear to be just another baked chicken dish. However, there’s a few key things that set this recipe apart.
Most notably is the inclusion of Kalamata olives; they add a unique briny flavor that cuts through the richness of the chicken. Furthermore, using smoked paprika elevates the dish beyond the ordinary, introducing a layer of complexity.
Those cherry tomatoes are not just a garnish here. Their juice mingles with the chicken fats, creating an unctuous sauce that you’ll want to pour over every bite. Lastly, the addition of aged balsamic vinegar provides a hint of sweetness while balancing the overall flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s make sure you have everything before we begin cooking:
- 4 medium-sized potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 2 pounds of chicken pieces (breasts, thighs, or drumsticks)
- 1 large onion (sliced into wedges)
- 1 red bell pepper (coarsely chopped)
- 2 cups of cherry tomatoes (or regular tomatoes, quartered)
- 6 garlic cloves (finely minced)
- 1 cup Kalamata olives (pitted)
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon aged balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 3 fresh basil leaves (finely chopped)
- 1 small lemon
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 400°F (200°C). An adequately heated oven sets the stage for even cooking, ensuring your chicken develops a nice golden-brown crust while keeping the veggies flavorful and tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Take those beautiful potatoes, peel them, and cut them into bite-sized pieces. The same goes for the onion and bell pepper.
You want everything roughly uniform in size to ensure even cooking. Toss the diced potatoes, onion wedges, and chopped bell pepper into a large bowl.
Step 3: Add the Chicken
Now, it’s chicken time! Add your chosen pieces to the bowl of veggies. The magic happens when they all merge, so don’t be shy.
Step 4: Mix in the Flavors
Grab those garlic cloves and mince them up. Add the minced garlic, Kalamata olives, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Take a moment to appreciate the aromatic blend filling the air. Drizzle in that lovely extra virgin olive oil, followed by the balsamic vinegar, and give everything a good toss.
Step 5: Arrange in a Baking Dish
Transfer all that deliciousness into a large baking dish. Spread everything out in a single layer for even cooking. Make sure chicken pieces are nestled among the veggies, sharing their flavors.
Step 6: Pop It in the Oven
Slide your creation into the oven and let it bake for about 45 minutes. You can take a moment to kick back and relax while something wonderful happens in your kitchen.
Step 7: Time for a Little Zest
After the chicken has baked, grab that lemon and squeeze some fresh juice on top. Sprinkle the chopped basil for a bright finish. It’s this small step that really brings everything together.
Tips On Making Hit Run Baked Chicken and Veggies
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and organic vegetables always yield a better flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd: If your baking dish is too crowded, the chicken will steam instead of roast. Consider using two dishes if needed.
- Let the Chicken Rest: After baking, allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep it juicy.
- Experiment with Your Veggies: Use seasonal produce. Zucchini or asparagus would work beautifully with this dish.
- Add Spice: If you love heat, throw in some red pepper flakes to elevate the spice profile.
Nutrition Information
Hit Run Baked Chicken And Veggies Recipe Nutrition Facts
How Can I Store This Hit Run Baked Chicken and Veggies?
Got leftovers?
No worries at all! Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before digging in again. Trust me, the flavors only get better!
Substitute Options for Ingredients
You might not have everything on hand, and that’s perfectly fine. Here are some easy swaps:
- Potatoes: Try sweet potatoes for a healthier alternative. They add a hint of sweetness and extra nutrients.
- Chicken Parts: If you have tofu or tempeh, those can easily replace chicken for a plant-based meal.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar as an alternative.
- Kalamata Olives: Any type of black olives can work, or even capers for that briny punch.
Hit Run Baked Chicken And Veggies Recipe
Equipment
- Oven
Ingredients
- 4 medium-sized potatoes peeled and diced
- 2 pounds of chicken pieces breasts, thighs, or drumsticks
- 1 large onion sliced into wedges
- 1 red bell pepper coarsely chopped
- 2 cups of cherry tomatoes or regular tomatoes, quartered
- 6 garlic cloves finely minced
- 1 cup Kalamata olives pitted
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon aged balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 3 fresh basil leaves finely chopped
- 1 small lemon
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
- Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 400°F (200°C). An adequately heated oven sets the stage for even cooking, ensuring your chicken develops a nice golden-brown crust while keeping the veggies flavorful and tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
- Take those beautiful potatoes, peel them, and cut them into bite-sized pieces. The same goes for the onion and bell pepper.
- You want everything roughly uniform in size to ensure even cooking. Toss the diced potatoes, onion wedges, and chopped bell pepper into a large bowl.
Step 3: Add the Chicken
- Now, it’s chicken time! Add your chosen pieces to the bowl of veggies. The magic happens when they all merge, so don’t be shy.
Step 4: Mix in the Flavors
- Grab those garlic cloves and mince them up. Add the minced garlic, Kalamata olives, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Take a moment to appreciate the aromatic blend filling the air. Drizzle in that lovely extra virgin olive oil, followed by the balsamic vinegar, and give everything a good toss.
Step 5: Arrange in a Baking Dish
- Transfer all that deliciousness into a large baking dish. Spread everything out in a single layer for even cooking. Make sure chicken pieces are nestled among the veggies, sharing their flavors.
Step 6: Pop It in the Oven
- Slide your creation into the oven and let it bake for about 45 minutes. You can take a moment to kick back and relax while something wonderful happens in your kitchen.
Step 7: Time for a Little Zest
- After the chicken has baked, grab that lemon and squeeze some fresh juice on top. Sprinkle the chopped basil for a bright finish. It’s this small step that really brings everything together.
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and organic vegetables always yield a better flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd: If your baking dish is too crowded, the chicken will steam instead of roast. Consider using two dishes if needed.
- Let the Chicken Rest: After baking, allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep it juicy.
- Experiment with Your Veggies: Use seasonal produce. Zucchini or asparagus would work beautifully with this dish.
- Add Spice: If you love heat, throw in some red pepper flakes to elevate the spice profile.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and veggies the night before. Just combine them with the spices and oils, and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready, bake right from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Can I use frozen chicken?
It’s best to use thawed chicken to ensure even cooking. While you can bake frozen chicken, it may not achieve the best texture or flavor.
Can I add more spices?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary for different flavor profiles.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. Just let them cool and store them in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge and reheat until hot.
What’s the best way to serve this dish?
Serve the chicken and veggies hot right from the oven, drizzled with the lemon juice and garnished with fresh herbs. A warm piece of bread on the side always complements it nicely.
Conclusion
Hit Run Baked Chicken and Veggies is not just food; it’s a warm hug from your kitchen on a busy day. It’s adaptable, flavorful, and straightforward, making it a perfect dish for anyone from novice cooks to kitchen pros.
Whether you whip it up for your family or a casual gathering, this meal brings people together. So fire up your oven and dive into this delightful experience. You won’t regret it!
