This recipe happened accidentally a few years back while figuring out ways to use up half a jar of leftover marinara sauce. I often make Salsa chicken, so took the recipe as the inspiration.The outcome was juicy chicken, and tender potatoes in a stew-like sauce, a really comforting dish. Over the years, I have tried a few variations and always loved it.
Chicken- Bone-in chicken thighs, and legs work best in this recipe. I have used a mix of both. I love to keep the skin on, as it crisps up nicely at the end. You could also use a whole chicken and cut it into pieces. Potatoes- whole potatoes but into quarters. Baby potatoes will also do. Marinara sauce- Because there are not many ingredients, a high-quality marinara sauce will make a huge difference. I love to use roasted garlic or spicy marinara sauce here.
To add a little more flavor I have used Italian seasoning to season the chicken before searing it. Because we are talking about Italian flavors here, grated parmesan cheese on top will only make it better. Add some fresh Italian basil at the end to finish the dish.
Substituion & Variations
Chicken breast is not a great option, as this is a lean meat and not good for long cooking. It will turn dry. I sometime add mozzarella cheese on top 10 minutes before taking it out, for a gooey cheesy topping(my daughter loves it). You can add more veggies to it. If adding root vegeteable like carrot, cut it into large chunks and add it along with potateos. Green beans needs to be added mid way through, so that it doesn’t get overcooked and stringy.
Step 1- Season chicken
Before you season chicken, make sure you have dried them well with kitchen towel. Love brown crispy chicken skin ? then making them as dry as possible ensure it roasts well. Mix together Italian seasoning, salt and pepper. Season chicken well on both the sides. Freezing- Perfect for freezing as well. Reheating – Reheat in a microwave until it’s warm. If you have frozen it, then thaw it overnight and then reheat. Green beans, Air fryer Roasted broccoli , Kale salad are few other veggies side options that you can serve with this Italian Chicken and potatoes.
