Middle Eastern Braised Chicken Tray Bake Recipe

If you are craving a warm, fragrant dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Middle East straight to your table, this Middle Eastern Braised Chicken Tray Bake Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a one-pan wonder that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas of cumin, paprika, and cinnamon, perfectly marrying tender chicken thighs with juicy cherry tomatoes and a richly braised finish. Effortlessly combining simplicity and depth, this dish transforms everyday ingredients into a comforting feast that’s bound to become a family favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture, making this tray bake both simple to prepare and a true showstopper. From the spices that infuse warmth and character, to the fresh vegetables that add brightness and juiciness, everything comes together beautifully in one pan.

• 2½ lb bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: Give you tender, juicy meat with crispy skin when cooked.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps the spices cling to the chicken and adds a smooth richness.
• 1 red onion, sliced: Adds subtle sweetness and a pleasant texture contrast.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes: Burst with freshness and mellow acidity during cooking.
• 1 tsp ground cumin: Offers warm, earthy undertones that ground the dish.
• 1 tsp paprika: Brings smoky depth and a beautiful color.
• ½ tsp cinnamon: Adds a hint of sweet complexity without overpowering.
• ½ tsp turmeric: Gives gorgeous golden color and a mild, peppery note.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: Season to balance and enhance all flavors.
• ½ cup chicken broth: Creates a flavorful braising liquid that keeps the chicken moist.

How to Make Middle Eastern Braised Chicken Tray Bake Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Spice the Chicken

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), which sets the stage to deliver perfect browning. While the oven heats, toss the chicken thighs in olive oil along with cumin, paprika, cinnamon, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. This step is your chance to coat every piece with the fragrant spice blend that will define the dish.

Step 2: Arrange Your Ingredients

Next, take a rimmed baking tray and spread the sliced red onion and juicy cherry tomatoes evenly. Nestle the spiced chicken thighs on top, arranging everything so each piece has space to cook properly. Pour the chicken broth around the ingredients to create that magical braising liquid that will keep your chicken moist and tender.

Step 3: Braise Covered

Cover the tray loosely with foil and pop it into your oven for 30 minutes. During this time, the broth does its work, infusing the chicken with moisture and melding flavors beautifully. The cover traps steam, which helps the chicken cook evenly and softens the onions and tomatoes.

Step 4: Crisp and Finish

After that initial braising, remove the foil and return the tray to the oven for an additional 20 minutes. This final step crisps up the chicken skin to a golden, irresistible finish while thickening the sauce slightly. You’ll want to watch closely here—your kitchen will start smelling incredible!

How to Serve Middle Eastern Braised Chicken Tray Bake Recipe

Garnishes

Finish with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness that complements the hearty spices. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds can add an exciting crunch and nutty flavor that elevates the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

This Middle Eastern Braised Chicken Tray Bake Recipe pairs wonderfully with warm flatbreads to soak up the luscious sauce, or fluffy couscous for a light, grain-based side. Roasted or steamed vegetables, like green beans or carrots, work perfectly for a balanced meal that’s full of color and texture.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this tray bake family-style right from the baking dish to share its rustic charm. For a slightly elevated touch, plate individual portions over a bed of herbed couscous or a drizzle of yogurt sauce mixed with lemon juice and garlic. This adds brightness and an extra creamy contrast that your guests will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The rich flavors intensify overnight, making for even tastier meals the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover portions if needed. Make sure to cool completely before placing in a freezer-safe container. It’s best consumed within two months for optimal freshness and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, ensuring the chicken stays tender and not dry. You can also use a microwave for shorter reheating times, but cover the dish to retain moisture.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in for this recipe?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used, but the bone-in variety adds more flavor and helps keep the meat moist during braising. Cooking time might be slightly shorter with boneless pieces, so keep an eye on them.

What if I don’t have chicken broth, can I substitute it?

If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, vegetable broth or even water with a pinch of salt can work. Broth enhances the flavor, so try to use it whenever possible for best results.

Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Absolutely! The Middle Eastern Braised Chicken Tray Bake Recipe contains no gluten ingredients and is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure any side dishes like couscous are substituted if needed.

Can I add other vegetables to this tray bake?

Definitely. Adding olives, chickpeas, or sliced bell peppers will add interesting flavors and textures. Just be mindful of cooking times for each vegetable to avoid over or undercooking.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe carries warm, aromatic spices rather than heat. If you prefer some heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped chili to the spice mix.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that looks beautiful, smells intoxicating, and tastes even better the next day. This Middle Eastern Braised Chicken Tray Bake Recipe does all that and more, capturing the essence of Middle Eastern spices and homestyle comfort. Whether you’re feeding family or impressing friends, it promises to become a reliable favorite on your dinner rotation. Don’t wait to try it—you’re going to love it!

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