Baked Chicken and Butter Beans Recipe – Lebanese Special
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Tray-Baked Chicken with Butter Beans, Leeks, and Spinach, a wholesome dish that combines succulent chicken with nutritious vegetables for a satisfying meal. The chicken is marinated in aromatic spices and baked alongside tender leeks and creamy butter beans, creating a delightful harmony of textures and flavors. Fresh spinach is added just before serving, adding a vibrant touch and a nutritional boost. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this one-pan wonder is easy to prepare and promises to impress with its rich, savory goodness!
- Prep Time15 min
- Cook Time40 min
- Total Time55 min
For the Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, sliced
For the Vegetables:
- 2 leeks, cleaned and sliced
- 1 can (15 oz) butter beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme sprigs
- 1 cup chicken broth or stock
How to make Baked Chicken and Butter Beans:
Preheat the Oven:Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Chicken:In a large bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces, coating them well in the mixture.
Prepare the Tray:In a large baking tray, spread the sliced leeks and minced garlic evenly. Add the butter beans and thyme, mixing gently.
Arrange Chicken:Place the seasoned chicken on top of the vegetables. Lay lemon slices over the chicken.
Add Liquid:Pour the chicken broth around the chicken and vegetables.
Bake:Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy.
Add Spinach:Remove the tray from the oven, stir in the fresh spinach, and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, just until the spinach wilts.
Serve:Serve hot, spooning the beans and vegetables over the chicken.
Recipe Notes:
Chicken Options:Feel free to use boneless, skinless chicken if you prefer; just adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
Vegetable Variations:You can add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
Make Ahead:The dish can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until you’re ready to bake it.
Leftovers:Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Serving Suggestions:This dish pairs well with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.
