Jamie Oliver Chicken Tray Bake Recipe [GUIDE]

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, fresh veggies and aromatic herbs all cooked together in one pan. The idea behind it is to create a hassle-free, family-friendly meal that doesn’t require much prep but still delivers on taste. The chicken, typically drumsticks or thighs, is seasoned with herbs, olive oil and sometimes a splash of lemon or balsamic vinegar, then baked alongside potatoes, onions or other vegetables. The result is a golden, crispy exterior on the chicken while the veggies soak up all the delicious flavors.

It’s a no-fuss, low-maintenance meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekends when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. The best part? You can customize it by throwing in whatever veggies you have on hand, making it super versatile.

Jamie Oliver Chicken Tray Bake Recipe

Ingredients Needed

You don’t need a long grocery list to pull this off. Here’s what you’ll typically need:

• Chicken: Drumsticks, thighs or even a whole chicken cut into pieces work well. The skin adds flavor and helps keep the meat juicy.
• Vegetables: Potatoes, carrots, onions, bell peppers or anything you have in the fridge. The goal is to have hearty vegetables that can roast well alongside the chicken.
• Olive Oil: A generous amount to coat everything and help crisp up the chicken.
• Garlic: Fresh cloves or garlic paste for depth of flavor.
• Herbs: Rosemary and thyme are classic choices. You can also experiment with oregano, sage or bay leaves.
• Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a bright, zesty kick. Sometimes zest is added for extra zing.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper and a touch of paprika or chili flakes for a little heat if you like.
• Optional: A drizzle of balsamic vinegar or a splash of white wine to add some sweetness or acidity to the mix.

The beauty of this recipe is that it doesn’t require anything fancy. you can even skip a few ingredients and still have a great meal.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need a lot of special equipment to make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake. A few basic kitchen tools will do the job:

• A Large Baking Tray: The star of the show. You want a tray that’s big enough to hold the chicken and veggies in a single layer. A roasting pan works perfectly.
• Sharp Knife: For chopping veggies and cutting the chicken into pieces if needed.
• Chopping Board: To keep your workspace organized while prepping.
• Spoon or Tongs: To toss the ingredients together with the seasoning and oil.
• Measuring Spoons: For getting the seasoning just right.
• Aluminum Foil or Parchment Paper (optional): For easier cleanup, though this is entirely up to you.

If you have a roasting rack, it can help crisp up the chicken but it’s not necessary.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake

This recipe is all about simplicity. Here’s a basic rundown of how to put it together:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by heating your oven to around 200°C (400°F). This ensures everything cooks evenly and crisps up beautifully.
2. Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper and your choice of herbs (like thyme or rosemary). Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and rub it in so every part of the skin gets a nice coating.
3. Prep the Veggies: Chop your vegetables into chunks-roughly the same size so they cook evenly. Toss them in olive oil, salt and pepper. You can also add minced garlic or even a squeeze of lemon juice at this point.
4. Assemble the Tray: Lay the chicken pieces on the baking tray. Surround them with the veggies, making sure everything is spread out in a single layer. If you’re using potatoes, place them in the middle since they’ll need a bit more time to cook.
5. Bake: Place the tray in the oven and bake for about 40-50 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 75°C/165°F). The veggies should be soft and caramelized.
6. Optional Final Touches: Before serving, you can squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the dish or drizzle a little balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.

The whole process doesn’t take long and once it’s in the oven, you’re free to do other things while dinner practically makes itself.

What I Learnt

What stands out about Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake is how flexible it is. You can swap out the veggies based on what you have or what’s in season and it still turns out amazing. The chicken always comes out juicy because of the way it’s coated in oil and seasoning. It’s also a great example of how simple ingredients, when treated right, can make a standout meal.

Another thing I learned is that while the prep is minimal, the dish is incredibly forgiving. If you’re short on time, you can prep everything in the morning and throw it in the oven when you’re ready. You can also adjust the level of seasoning to match your mood-spicy, herby or even a little sweet if you want to add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.

Recipe Tweaks For Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake is already a classic but there’s always room to make it your own! Here are some fun and easy tweaks:

1. Veggie Variety: The recipe calls for simple root vegetables like carrots, potatoes and onions. But why stop there? Throw in some sweet potatoes, parsnips or even Brussels sprouts for a twist. You can also add bell peppers or zucchini to lighten things up.
2. Herb Infusion: While Jamie uses fresh rosemary and thyme, you could experiment with other herbs. Sage or oregano can give a deeper flavor or you could go Mediterranean with some oregano and lemon zest. Fresh basil added right before serving can add a burst of freshness.
3. Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of smoked paprika can amp up the flavor without overpowering it. You could also marinate the chicken in a bit of harissa paste or a spicy peri-peri sauce.
4. Citrusy Twist: Add lemon zest or a splash of orange juice for extra depth. A squeeze of fresh lemon at the end of baking can bring a nice brightness to balance the richness of the roasted chicken.
5. Cheese Lover’s Dream: For a more indulgent version, add crumbled feta or shaved parmesan over the chicken and veggies towards the end of cooking. The cheese will melt beautifully, creating a rich, savory layer.
6. Add Some Heat: For those who enjoy a bit of kick, you can add chili peppers or chili flakes. The heat balances beautifully with the savory richness of the chicken and veggies.
7. Nuts for Texture: Toss in a handful of pine nuts or chopped almonds about 10 minutes before the end of cooking. They’ll roast up nicely and add a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken and veggies.

Storage Tips For Leftovers

After enjoying this easy, one-pan dinner, you might end up with some leftovers (or just plan to enjoy the goodness again). Here’s how to store it:

1. Cool First: Always let your leftovers cool down to room temperature before storing them. If you put hot food directly into the fridge, it can raise the temperature inside, leading to potential bacterial growth.
2. Use Airtight Containers: Store the chicken tray bake in airtight containers to preserve its flavor and texture. Make sure you separate the chicken from the vegetables if you’re storing them separately. This can help keep both in their best form when reheated.
3. Refrigeration: Leftovers should last 3-4 days in the fridge. If you don’t think you’ll get to it that soon, consider freezing portions.
4. Freezing Tips: For freezing, let the dish cool down completely before transferring it to freezer-friendly containers or bags. When frozen properly, it can last up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
5. Reheating: The oven is your best bet for reheating. Preheat to around 180°C (350°F) and bake for 15-20 minutes or until it’s heated all the way through. If you’re in a rush, the microwave works but the veggies might lose their crispness.

What To Eat With Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tray Bake?

Jamie’s Chicken Tray Bake is hearty and flavorful on its own but it pairs beautifully with a few sides that balance out the richness. Here are a few ideas:

1. Green Salad: A simple salad with fresh greens, such as arugula or spinach, can add a crisp, refreshing contrast to the roasted chicken. A light vinaigrette with mustard and honey will bring some zing to cut through the savory flavors.
2. Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread never goes wrong. The crispiness and richness of the bread complement the juicy chicken and roasted veggies. You could even make your own to keep things fresh and homemade.
3. Rice or Couscous: For something a little more substantial, you could serve it with rice or couscous. Both options will soak up any leftover juices from the tray bake, making each bite even more flavorful.
4. Roasted or Grilled Vegetables: If you want to keep it light but still veggie-heavy, consider grilling or roasting some extra vegetables on the side, like asparagus, broccoli or mushrooms. The slight char will add more depth to the flavor profile.
5. A Side of Yogurt: A cool, tangy yogurt dip can be a surprising but fantastic addition. Try mixing yogurt with garlic, mint and a bit of lemon for a refreshing contrast that works well with the warm chicken and veggies.
6. Mashed Potatoes: If you’re after comfort food, mashed potatoes are always a winner. They add a creamy, smooth contrast to the crispiness of the roasted chicken and veggies.

FAQs

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

You’ll need chicken, potatoes, onions, garlic, olive oil, herbs, and a variety of veggies like carrots and peppers.

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

It usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your oven and the size of your chicken pieces.

Can I Customize The Vegetables In The Chicken Tray Bake Recipe?

Yes! You can add or swap in any veggies you like, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or sweet potatoes.