Chicken and Sweet Potato Traybake

This vibrant Chicken and Sweet Potato Traybake is a one-pan wonder that brings the bold, spicy zest of the Mediterranean to your dinner table. Featuring juicy piri-piri chicken roasted alongside caramelized sweet potatoes and colorful bell peppers, it is an effortless way to enjoy a nutritious meal that delivers three of your five-a-day in every serving.

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The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—the oven does the hard work while the chicken fat renders down, infusing the vegetables with savory richness. It is a perfect choice for busy weeknights when you want something fresh and exciting.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons piri-piri seasoning (or paste)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 2 cm chunks
• 1 large red onion, cut into thick wedges
• 1 red bell pepper, deseeded and cut into chunks
• 1 yellow bell pepper, deseeded and cut into chunks
• 2 cloves garlic, finely sliced
• 150 g cherry tomatoes, halved
• Fresh coriander or parsley, chopped (optional)
• Lemon wedges, to serve

Store cookware, spices, and prep tools within reach to keep cooking organized and efficient.

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Instructions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan) / 400°F / Gas Mark 6.

Step 2

In a large bowl, toss the chicken thighs with piri-piri seasoning, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well coated.

Step 3

Arrange the sweet potatoes, red onion, and both bell peppers on a large baking tray. Drizzle with a little olive oil and scatter over the sliced garlic. Toss to combine and spread out in a single layer.

Step 4

Nestle the seasoned chicken thighs among the vegetables, skin-side up.

Step 5

Roast in the oven for 30 minutes.

Step 6

Add the cherry tomatoes to the tray and return to the oven for another 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (juices run clear) and the vegetables are golden and tender.

Step 7

Garnish with chopped coriander or parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

When preparing the dish, ensure the chicken is cooked through by checking that the juices run clear. Be mindful of the piri-piri seasoning brand you choose; some may contain mustard or traces of gluten, so always verify labels if you have specific dietary sensitivities.

Varianten und Anpassungen

To customize this traybake, try swapping sweet potatoes for butternut squash or mixed root vegetables. If you prefer more heat, toss a pinch of chili flakes or sliced fresh chili in with the vegetables before roasting.

Serviervorschläge

For a complete meal, serve the traybake with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans. To complement the spicy piri-piri flavors, pair this dish with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light, refreshing lager.

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With its vibrant colors and aromatic spices, this Chicken and Sweet Potato Traybake is as visually stunning as it is delicious—a true feast for the senses.

Provides cushioned comfort while cooking, prepping meals, washing dishes, and standing longer in the kitchen.

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Recipe FAQ

→ Can I adjust the spice level of this dish?

Yes, for extra heat, you can easily add a pinch of chili flakes or sliced fresh chili along with the vegetables before roasting. The piri-piri seasoning already provides a wonderful warmth.

→ What are some good substitutions for sweet potatoes?

Butternut squash is an excellent alternative that roasts beautifully. You could also use a mix of other root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or even regular potatoes, cut to similar sizes for even cooking.

→ Is this a good meal for weeknight dinners?

Absolutely! This is a fantastic one-pan option, requiring minimal preparation and cleanup. It delivers bold flavors with ease, making it perfect for a delicious and quick weeknight meal.

→ What can I serve alongside this traybake?

A crisp green salad or some steamed green beans would make a lovely addition, providing freshness and contrasting textures. Don't forget the lemon wedges for an extra bright finish.

→ Can I use different cuts of chicken?

While bone-in, skin-on thighs provide great flavor and moisture, you can use boneless chicken thighs or breasts. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as boneless cuts cook faster to prevent them from drying out.

→ How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is thoroughly cooked when its internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F) and the juices run clear when pierced with a knife. The skin should also be golden and crispy.