Name: Middle Eastern Braised Chicken Tray Bake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 1 large red onion, cut into wedges; 4 garlic cloves, peeled; 200g cherry tomatoes; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp ground paprika; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 100ml chicken stock; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

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If you’re craving a meal that’s both bursting with flavor and incredibly comforting, this Middle Eastern Braised Chicken Tray Bake Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. Juicy chicken thighs soak up the warmth of aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, all braised alongside tender roasted vegetables in one simple tray. The result? A stunning dish that feels special enough for guests but is effortless enough for any weeknight dinner. It’s a beautiful harmony of fragrant, hearty, and fresh flavors that come together in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze and your taste buds endlessly happy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two white pots on a white marbled surface. The top pot has five raw chicken thighs, pink with white fat parts and some seasoning, sitting in light oil. The chicken pieces are arranged close but not overlapping, showing a mix of smooth and slightly bumpy textures. The bottom pot contains four cooked chicken thighs with a crispy golden-brown skin that looks crunchy, sitting in browned oil with some cooking marks visible on the pot's sides. A pair of silver tongs is holding one of the cooked pieces. Both pots have large handles and a light cream interior. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Middle Eastern Braised Chicken Tray Bake Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a vital role in creating layers of flavor and color. From the savory depth of spices to the juicy tenderness of chicken thighs, every component shines through with ease.

Chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on: They stay juicy and develop a crispy, golden skin that seals in all the flavors.
Red onion, wedges: Adds sweetness and soft texture as it roasts slowly beside the chicken.
Garlic cloves: Infuse the dish with rich garlic notes without overpowering the other spices.
Cherry tomatoes: Burst with juiciness and add a lovely pop of color and acidity.
Ground cumin: Lends that warm, slightly nutty undertone typical of Middle Eastern cuisine.
Ground coriander: Brightens the mix with its fresh, lemony aroma.
Ground paprika: Brings mild smokiness and vibrant red color.
Ground cinnamon: A small touch balances the spices with subtle sweetness and warmth.
Olive oil: Helps the spices cling to the chicken and vegetables while enriching each bite.
Chicken stock: Braises the chicken, keeping it moist and infusing it with savory depth.
Lemon juice: Added at the end to brighten and lift the whole dish.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning that brings everything together perfectly.

How to Make Middle Eastern Braised Chicken Tray Bake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 190°C (375°F). This ensures the tray bake will cook evenly and the chicken skin crisps up beautifully. Meanwhile, gather your ingredients so everything is ready to assemble.

Step 2: Arrange Chicken and Vegetables

Place the bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs on a large baking tray alongside the wedges of red onion, whole garlic cloves, and cherry tomatoes. Arranging them without overcrowding helps each piece roast perfectly.

Step 3: Add the Spices and Seasoning

Sprinkle the ground cumin, coriander, paprika, and cinnamon evenly over the chicken and veggies. Don’t forget salt and pepper at this stage—they’re critical for bringing out the best in all those flavors.

Step 4: Drizzle with Olive Oil and Pour Stock

Generously drizzle olive oil over everything, which helps create a golden crust and prevents drying. Pour chicken stock around the chicken (not directly on top) to start the braising process, keeping the meat juicy and tender.

Step 5: Braise Covered in the Oven

Cover the tray tightly with foil and bake for 35 minutes. This steams the chicken and vegetables gently, allowing the flavors to meld and the meat to become tender.

Step 6: Finish Baking Uncovered

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, letting the chicken skin crisp up and the natural sugars in the veggies caramelize for that perfect golden finish.

Step 7: Add Fresh Lemon Juice

Right before serving, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish. This final touch wakes up all the rich, warm flavors with a burst of freshness that truly completes the Middle Eastern Braised Chicken Tray Bake Recipe experience.

How to Serve Middle Eastern Braised Chicken Tray Bake Recipe

The dish shows seven roasted chicken pieces with a golden-brown color and a crispy skin covered in a mix of herbs and spices, spread evenly on a white oval plate. Scattered around the chicken pieces are thick slices of roasted purple onion with a soft and slightly charred texture. Bright yellow lemon wedges are placed in between the chicken and onions, adding pops of color. Fresh green parsley is sprinkled lightly over the chicken and plate, adding a fresh touch. The plate is set on a white marbled surface, with a small white bowl containing a light brown sauce visible at the top left corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a vibrant green contrast and herbal brightness. A few toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds add a delightful crunch and extra nuttiness that pairs beautifully with the spices.

Side Dishes

This dish is a natural companion to fluffy couscous, fragrant basmati rice, or warm flatbread that soaks up every bit of the delicious juices. A crisp salad with cucumber, mint, and yogurt dressing balances the warm spices with cool creaminess.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning centerpiece, serve everything right from the tray to the table, encouraging everyone to dig in family-style. Alternatively, plate individual portions on colorful ceramic dishes and drizzle with a touch of tahini sauce for that extra Middle Eastern flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making for even tastier next-day meals.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. Just label the container and leave some space for expansion to keep the texture intact during freezing and thawing.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven at 160°C (320°F) until warmed through to maintain juicy chicken and crisp skin. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, covering the dish loosely to avoid drying out the chicken and vegetables.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Chicken thighs are preferred because they remain moist and flavorful after braising. Breasts can dry out more easily but can be used if you watch the cooking time carefully and avoid overcooking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! All the ingredients in this Middle Eastern Braised Chicken Tray Bake Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or gluten-free diets.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Root vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or parsnips work wonderfully, as do olives or chickpeas tossed in before baking to add extra flavor and texture.

What can I substitute for chicken stock?

If you don’t have chicken stock, vegetable stock or even water with a bit of seasoning can work in a pinch, though stock adds the richest flavor.

Is this dish spicy?

This recipe offers warm, mild spicing from the cumin and paprika rather than heat. You can add chili flakes or fresh chili if you want a little kick, but traditionally it’s more fragrant than fiery.

Final Thoughts

This Middle Eastern Braised Chicken Tray Bake Recipe feels like a warm hug from the inside, mixing fragrant spices, tender chicken, and vibrant veggies all in one easy tray. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something impressive but fuss-free. Once you try it, I’m confident it will become a beloved staple in your kitchen, bringing both comfort and exotic flair to your dinner table time and again.