Crispy Baked Chicken & Herb Potatoes Traybake

There’s something magical about the moment you pull a traybake out of the oven the golden chicken skin glistening, the roasted potatoes infused with herbs, and the inviting aroma that fills the entire kitchen. This Crispy Baked Chicken & Herb Potatoes Traybake is the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, plates in hand, ready for a hearty, flavor-packed meal. The best part is that it’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat, so you can enjoy the process just as much as the result.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was born out of my love for no-fuss, wholesome dinners that still feel special. I remember my grandmother making a similar traybake on Sunday evenings, using whatever herbs she had in her garden. The chicken would roast alongside potatoes, soaking up all the savory juices, while the herbs filled the air with a comforting fragrance. Over the years, I’ve refined the method to create the perfect crispness while keeping the chicken juicy and the potatoes soft on the inside but deliciously golden on the outside.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Traybakes have deep roots in home cooking traditions around the world. In many European countries, the concept of roasting meat and vegetables together in one pan has been a family staple for centuries. It’s a practical, flavorful approach that lets the ingredients shine without fuss. The combination of chicken and potatoes, in particular, has been loved for generations because of its ability to feed a crowd while being budget-friendly and adaptable to seasonal flavors.

Why You’ll Love Crispy Baked Chicken & Herb Potatoes Traybake

Versatile: Works just as well for a midweek dinner as for a casual weekend gathering.

Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients without sacrificing flavor.

Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and one-pan cooking mean less effort and easy cleanup.

Customizable: Change up the herbs, add root vegetables, or swap chicken pieces to suit your taste.

Crowd-Pleasing: The classic pairing of chicken and potatoes is universally loved.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep earlier in the day and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.

Great for Leftovers: Stays tasty the next day, either reheated or cold in a salad.

Print

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Achieving crispy skin and tender potatoes is all about balance.

• Dry the chicken well before seasoning to ensure the skin roasts to a crisp.
• Parboil the potatoes for a few minutes before roasting to give them a head start.
• Space everything out on the tray so heat can circulate and crisp each piece.
• Flip the potatoes halfway for even browning.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to lock in juices.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

A little preparation goes a long way when you have the right tools.

• Large roasting tray: Big enough to hold chicken and potatoes without crowding.
• Sharp knife: For trimming chicken and chopping potatoes evenly.
• Cutting board: A sturdy surface for prepping ingredients.
• Mixing bowl: To toss potatoes with herbs and oil before roasting.
• Tongs: For turning chicken and potatoes during cooking.

Ingredients in Crispy Baked Chicken & Herb Potatoes Traybake

The beauty of this dish lies in the harmony between juicy chicken, golden potatoes, and fragrant herbs.

1. Chicken thighs and drumsticks: 1.5 kg, skin-on for maximum flavor and crispness.
2. Baby potatoes: 1 kg, halved for even cooking.
3. Olive oil: 3 tablespoons, to coat and roast ingredients to golden perfection.
4. Fresh rosemary: 2 tablespoons, chopped for an earthy aroma.
5. Fresh thyme: 1 tablespoon, leaves stripped for a bright herbal note.
6. Garlic cloves: 4, minced to infuse savory depth.
7. Paprika: 1 teaspoon, for a warm, smoky touch.
8. Salt: 1 teaspoon, to enhance natural flavors.
9. Black pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground for a gentle kick.

Ingredient Substitutions

Sometimes, a swap is all you need to keep cooking stress-free.

Chicken thighs and drumsticks: Bone-in chicken breast pieces.
Baby potatoes: Regular potatoes, cut into chunks.
Olive oil: Sunflower or canola oil.
Fresh rosemary: Dried rosemary (use half the amount).
Fresh thyme: Dried thyme (use half the amount).
Paprika: Smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.

Ingredient Spotlight

Rosemary: A woody herb that releases its oils beautifully during roasting, adding a fragrant, earthy quality to the dish.

Paprika: Brings a gentle warmth and subtle color that enhances the golden crust of both chicken and potatoes.

Instructions for Making Crispy Baked Chicken & Herb Potatoes Traybake

The joy of this dish is how easily it comes together while delivering such big flavors.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Set your oven to 200°C (400°F) and allow it to fully heat.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Lightly oil your roasting tray to prevent sticking.
4. Assemble the Dish: Arrange chicken pieces on the tray, skin side up, and scatter potatoes around them.
5. Cook to Perfection: Roast for 45–50 minutes, turning potatoes halfway, until chicken skin is crisp and golden and potatoes are tender inside.
6. Finishing Touches: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep it juicy.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Plate up generous portions and enjoy the irresistible aroma.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

This dish delivers on every bite the chicken skin crackles as you cut into it, revealing succulent meat inside, while the potatoes are fluffy within and perfectly crisp on the outside. The herbs roast into the potatoes, releasing a gentle perfume, and the paprika ties everything together with a warm, savory depth.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Use a wire rack inside the tray to allow heat to circulate under the chicken.
• Toss potatoes in a little extra oil halfway through if they look dry.
• Test doneness by checking that chicken juices run clear.

What to Avoid

• Avoid overcrowding the tray, which can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
• Don’t skip drying the chicken skin before cooking moisture is the enemy of crispness.
• Avoid using too little oil, as this can result in uneven browning.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 450

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This traybake can be prepped earlier in the day by marinating the chicken and prepping the potatoes. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to revive crispness or enjoy cold in salads. It also freezes well for up to 2 months.

How to Serve Crispy Baked Chicken & Herb Potatoes Traybake

Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables for balance. A dollop of garlic aioli or a squeeze of fresh lemon over the chicken can take the flavors to the next level.

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Shred leftover chicken into wraps with fresh veggies.
• Slice potatoes into a breakfast hash with eggs.
• Use both chicken and potatoes in a hearty soup.

Additional Tips

Add a splash of chicken stock to the tray for a richer flavor and to create a light sauce. Sprinkle fresh herbs just before serving for a burst of color and aroma.

Make It a Showstopper

Serve directly from the tray for a rustic, family-style presentation, or arrange pieces neatly on a platter with a garnish of fresh rosemary sprigs.

Variations to Try

• Lemon and herb version with zest and juice for brightness.
• Spicy twist with chili flakes and cayenne pepper.
• Mediterranean style with olives and cherry tomatoes.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, but reduce cooking time by about 10–15 minutes to avoid drying it out.

2. Do I need to peel the potatoes?

No, the skin adds texture and nutrients.

3. Can I make this in an air fryer?

Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

4. What other herbs work well?

Sage, oregano, or parsley are great alternatives.

5. Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Absolutely, it will deepen the flavor.

6. How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F).

7. Can I use sweet potatoes instead?

Yes, but they cook slightly faster, so check earlier.

8. How do I make the potatoes extra crispy?

Parboil them and shake in the pan before roasting.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use two trays to avoid overcrowding.

10. Does this recipe work with other meats?

Yes, pork chops or turkey thighs are good alternatives.

Conclusion

This Crispy Baked Chicken & Herb Potatoes Traybake is proof that simple ingredients can deliver big rewards. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s the kind of recipe that will find its way into your regular rotation. Trust me, you’re going to love this and once you smell it cooking, you’ll understand why it’s worth every bite.