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Spanish Chicken Traybake: A Delightful One-Pan Wonder

As the seasons change and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing quite like the comfort of a wholesome and hearty meal. Spanish Chicken Traybake is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family. This delightful dish brings the vibrant flavours of Spain to your table, with minimal fuss and maximum impact.

A Symphony of Flavours

The beauty of a traybake lies in its simplicity. Diners are treated to succulent chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs that all come together in one glorious dish. Spanish Chicken Traybake typically includes the following key ingredients:

• Chicken Thighs or Drumsticks: Tender cuts of chicken, which are ideal for roasting, as they remain moist and full of flavour.
• Bell Peppers: A medley of colours, including red, yellow, and green, adds sweetness and a satisfying crunch.
• Red Onion: Delivers a mild sweetness that caramelises beautifully in the oven.
• Garlic: A fundamental ingredient in Spanish cuisine, building a fragrant base that elevates the entire dish.
• Chorizo: This spicy, smoky sausage infuses the traybake with a wonderful depth of flavour, epitomising Spanish cuisine.
• Potatoes: Waxy or new potatoes work well, absorbing the flavours of the dish while providing a hearty element.
• Herbs and Spices: A sprinkling of smoked paprika, thyme, and fresh parsley contribute to the dish’s aromatic profile.

How to Make Spanish Chicken Traybake

Creating this dish is as easy as tossing the ingredients into a baking tray and letting the oven do the work. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs and 4 drumsticks (or any preferred combination)
• 2 bell peppers, sliced
• 1 large red onion, cut into wedges
• 200g chorizo, sliced
• 500g new potatoes, halved
• 4 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Olive oil

Method:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (180°C for fan ovens) or gas mark 6.

2. Prepare the Ingredients: In a large baking tray, combine the chicken, bell peppers, onion, chorizo, and potatoes. Add the crushed garlic, smoked paprika, and thyme. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.

3. Mix and Coat: Toss all the ingredients together, ensuring everything is well coated with the oil and seasonings.

4. Roast: Spread everything out evenly in the tray. Roast in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is golden and crispy. The potatoes should be tender, soaking up all those glorious flavours.

5. Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, take the dish out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

A Perfect Pairing

Spanish Chicken Traybake pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or crusty bread, perfect for mopping up any leftover juices. And for a true Spanish touch, why not accompany your meal with a glass of chilled sangria or a fruity Spanish wine?

Endless Variations

One of the most appealing aspects of a traybake is its versatility. Feel free to adapt the recipe to include your favourite vegetables or substitute the chicken with other proteins, such as firm fish or even a vegetarian option using halloumi or chickpeas. You can also adjust the spices to cater to varying palates, making it an easily customisable dish.

Conclusion

Spanish Chicken Traybake is a stress-free, flavour-packed meal that promises to satisfy and delight. Its ability to bring everyone together around the dinner table, while treating the taste buds to the delights of Spanish cuisine, undoubtedly makes it a beloved addition to any recipe repertoire. So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and let the delicious smells fill your home as you embark on this culinary journey to Spain!