Get ready to transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed shores of Spain with our mouthwatering Spanish Style Chicken Bake! This vibrant and hearty dish combines succulent chicken thighs with a medley of colorful bell peppers, aromatic garlic, and juicy tomatoes, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave your family begging for seconds. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive gathering with friends, this recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a comforting meal that’s bursting with the essence of Spanish cuisine. Are you ready to dive into this culinary adventure? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your chicken bakes evenly and gets a nice golden color.
- In a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish, drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil and place it over medium heat on the stovetop.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Next, add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet. Stir occasionally and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the peppers are slightly softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and paprika, stirring well to combine all the flavors.
- Push the vegetable mixture to the sides of the skillet, creating space in the center for the chicken thighs.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. Place them skin-side up in the center of the skillet.
- Pour the can of diced tomatoes over the chicken and vegetables, making sure the chicken is well coated with the tomatoes.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve the Spanish Style Chicken Bake warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, alongside crusty bread or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pan: For even cooking and easy cleanup, use an oven-safe skillet or baking dish that can go from stovetop to oven.
- Don’t Rush the Sauté: Take your time when sautéing the onions and peppers. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your dish, so cook until they're perfectly tender and fragrant.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt, pepper, and paprika! Proper seasoning enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and vegetables.
- Check the Temperature: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let it Rest: After baking, allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite more flavorful and juicy.
- Pair it Right: Serve your Spanish Style Chicken Bake with crusty bread or fluffy rice to soak up the delicious sauce and make your meal even more satisfying.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 140mg
