Jamie Oliver Chicken and Chorizo Tray Bake

The Jamie Oliver Chicken and Chorizo Tray Bake is a hearty, flavour-packed dish that brings together juicy chicken pieces, smoky Spanish chorizo, and roasted vegetables in one easy tray. With its golden finish and rich, rustic taste, it’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet requires very little effort. This recipe takes just over an hour, making it perfect for a comforting midweek dinner or a casual family gathering.

What is Jamie Oliver’s Chicken and Chorizo Tray Bake?

This tray bake is a one-pan recipe where chicken thighs or drumsticks are roasted alongside slices of chorizo, onions, peppers, and potatoes. As everything cooks together, the chorizo releases its smoky oils, infusing the chicken and vegetables with deep Mediterranean flavours.

Try Other Popular Recipes

• Jamie Oliver Chicken and Chorizo Risotto
• Jamie Oliver Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• One-pan convenience – Minimal washing up, maximum flavour.
• Family-friendly – A crowd-pleasing recipe that serves well for gatherings.
• Rich and smoky flavour – Chorizo elevates the taste of simple chicken.
• Balanced meal – Combines protein, carbs, and vegetables in one dish.
• Versatile – Can be easily adjusted with seasonal vegetables.

Ingredients Needed for Jamie Oliver’s Chicken and Chorizo Tray Bake

• 6 chicken thighs or drumsticks (skin-on, bone-in for best flavour)
• 200g chorizo, sliced into chunks
• 600g baby potatoes, halved
• 2 red peppers, sliced into strips
• 1 large red onion, cut into wedges
• 4 garlic cloves, left whole with skins on
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large baking tray or roasting tin
• Sharp knife and chopping board
• Mixing bowl
• Oven

Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Chicken and Chorizo Tray Bake

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Set your oven to 200°C (400°F) and allow it to heat while you prepare the ingredients.

Step 2: Season the chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat evenly.

Step 3: Arrange the tray

Spread the potatoes, peppers, onion wedges, and garlic cloves over a large baking tray. Nestle the chicken pieces on top, then scatter the chorizo slices around.

Step 4: Roast until golden

Bake in the preheated oven for 50–55 minutes, turning the vegetables halfway through. The chicken should be golden and fully cooked, and the potatoes crisp on the edges.

Step 5: Garnish and serve

Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot straight from the tray.

What to Serve With Jamie Oliver Chicken and Chorizo Tray Bake

• Fresh green salad – A crisp salad balances the richness.
• Crusty bread – Perfect for soaking up the smoky juices.
• Steamed greens – Broccoli or green beans make a light side.
• Rice or couscous – Ideal for turning it into an even heartier meal.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Jamie Oliver Chicken and Chorizo Tray Bake

• Choose skin-on chicken – It crisps up beautifully and adds flavour.
• Parboil potatoes if large – This ensures they roast evenly.
• Use smoky paprika – Enhances the Spanish-inspired flavours.
• Mix up the veg – Try courgettes, aubergine, or cherry tomatoes.
• Don’t overcrowd the tray – Give the chicken and vegetables space to roast properly.
• Check for doneness – Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).

What are the Variations of Jamie Oliver’s Chicken and Chorizo Tray Bake

• Mediterranean twist – Add olives, cherry tomatoes, and basil.
• Spicy version – Use hot chorizo and add fresh chillies.
• Vegetable-rich – Add courgettes, aubergines, or mushrooms.
• Citrus boost – Squeeze fresh lemon juice over before serving.

How Do I Store Jamie Oliver’s Chicken and Chorizo Tray Bake

• In the fridge – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• In the freezer – Freeze portions for up to 2 months.
• Best method – Freeze without garnish, then reheat and add fresh parsley.

How Do I Reheat Jamie Oliver’s Chicken and Chorizo Tray Bake

• Oven method – Reheat at 180°C (350°F) for 20 minutes until piping hot.
• Microwave method – Heat single portions for 3–4 minutes.
• From frozen – Defrost overnight in the fridge, then reheat as above.

How Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken and Chorizo Tray Bake Healthier?

You can use skinless chicken thighs or breast pieces to reduce fat. Swap chorizo for turkey sausage or a smaller quantity for less richness. Adding extra vegetables such as spinach, courgettes, or mushrooms boosts fibre and nutrients while lightening the dish.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: ~450 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fibre: 4g

FAQs

What cut of chicken is best for a chicken and chorizo tray bake?

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks work best because they stay juicy during roasting and develop a golden, crispy skin while absorbing the smoky oils from the chorizo.

Do you need to cook chorizo before adding it to the tray bake?

No, you don’t need to pre-cook chorizo. It releases its oils as it roasts, flavouring the chicken and vegetables in the tray with a rich, smoky taste.

How do you make sure potatoes cook evenly in a tray bake?

Cut the potatoes into even-sized chunks and spread them in a single layer. If they are large, parboil them for 5 minutes before roasting to ensure they turn golden and tender by the time the chicken is done.

Can you prepare a chicken and chorizo tray bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the tray with chicken, vegetables, and seasoning a few hours in advance. Keep it covered in the fridge, then bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.

Final Words

The Jamie Oliver Chicken and Chorizo Tray Bake is a delicious one-pan wonder that saves time without sacrificing flavour. With its golden roasted chicken, smoky chorizo, and perfectly cooked vegetables, it’s the kind of meal that will easily become a family favourite. Simple, rustic, and packed with goodness, this recipe is proof that the best dishes often come from the oven in a single tray.

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