If you’re searching for a fuss-free dinner that delivers serious flavor, let me introduce you to Tray-Baked Chicken Marylands with Risoni. This delightful one-pan wonder brings together juicy chicken, golden risoni pasta, and sweet vegetables all roasting together in a savory sauce. It’s the kind of comforting, cozy meal that has everyone scraping their plates and asking for more—and you’ll love how little cleanup is required. Whether you’re feeding your family or impressing guests on a weeknight, Tray-Baked Chicken Marylands with Risoni is sure to become a reliable favorite in your kitchen.

Tray-Baked Chicken Marylands with Risoni Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how quickly dinner comes together when your ingredient list is this straightforward but mighty. Each element is chosen to elevate the taste, add color, or bring a texture that makes Tray-Baked Chicken Marylands with Risoni both vibrant and satisfying.

Chicken Marylands: Using the thigh and drumstick attached keeps the meat extra juicy and flavorful during baking.
Olive oil: Adds depth and helps the chicken and vegetables caramelize beautifully.
Onion: Creates a sweet aromatic base for both the chicken and the risoni.
Garlic: A little garlic goes a long way—lifting the savory notes in the sauce.
Red bell pepper: For a pop of color, gentle sweetness, and a touch of crunch.
Risoni (or orzo) pasta: The star grain that soaks up all those delicious pan juices.
Chicken broth: Provides moisture and turns the risoni into a flavor-packed side.
Smoked paprika: Adds gorgeous color and a subtle smoky warmth.
Dried thyme: Brings an earthy, woody undertone that ties everything together.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and drawing out the best in every component.
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish: A sprinkle of green makes the final dish look—and taste—extra fresh.

How to Make Tray-Baked Chicken Marylands with Risoni

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F) and greasing a generous-sized baking tray or roasting pan. This ensures nothing sticks and makes post-dinner cleanup breezy. Having the oven nice and hot right from the beginning is the secret to a golden skin on your chicken and a speedy, even bake for the risoni below.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Rub each chicken Maryland with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to massage the seasonings in—this step locks in moisture and means every bite of Tray-Baked Chicken Marylands with Risoni will be feathered with rich, smoky flavor. Don’t skip the smoked paprika; it adds a lovely warmth that perfumes the whole kitchen.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken

Nestle those beautifully seasoned Marylands, skin-side up, onto your prepared baking tray. Slide the tray into your hot oven and bake for 20 minutes. This first round of roasting draws out flavor and helps render the chicken skin golden and crisp—just what you want for maximum flavor and texture.

Step 4: Mix the Risoni and Vegetables

While the chicken gets its head start, toss your risoni, onion, garlic, and diced red bell pepper in a bowl with another drizzle of olive oil. This helps the risoni toast up and ensures each grain is coated with aromatics and flavor—meaning a beautiful base for your Tray-Baked Chicken Marylands with Risoni.

Step 5: Combine Everything and Add Broth

After 20 minutes, carefully take the tray out of the oven. Pour the chicken broth over the risoni and vegetable mix, then nestle this vibrant mixture all around the chicken pieces. Return the tray to the oven for the final bake. The risoni will absorb the savory broth, the chicken juices, and all those delicious veggie flavors.

Step 6: Bake Until Done

Let everything bake together for another 20 to 25 minutes. Check that the chicken is cooked through (aim for an internal temperature of 75°C/165°F) and the risoni is tender with just a hint of bite. The tray will emerge looking and smelling incredible—the chicken bronzed, the pasta fluffy and rich, and peppers adding bursts of color.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, sprinkle your Tray-Baked Chicken Marylands with Risoni liberally with fresh, chopped parsley. This little touch brings a pop of brightness and makes the whole dish look restaurant-worthy. Serve piping hot, straight from the tray, and get ready for the happy faces at your table.

How to Serve Tray-Baked Chicken Marylands with Risoni

Garnishes

When it comes to finishing touches, chopped fresh parsley is a classic, but you can also add a zest of lemon or a few flakes of chili if you’re feeling adventurous. For an extra creamy touch, a sprinkle of grated parmesan or a dollop of yogurt balances the smoky flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

Tray-Baked Chicken Marylands with Risoni is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to stretch things for a crowd, try a simple green salad, oven-roasted zucchini, or some lemony steamed green beans. These sides add freshness and contrast, making each bite feel vibrant.

Creative Ways to Present

To impress, serve the chicken atop the risoni right in the tray for a rustic, family-style feel. Or, plate up individual servings, nestling each chicken Maryland over a generous mound of risoni and veggies. For a special occasion, consider topping each plate with a poached egg or sprinkle with toasted pine nuts for extra texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of Tray-Baked Chicken Marylands with Risoni keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. The flavors seem to meld and deepen overnight, so you might even find yourself sneaking a cold bite straight from the fridge!

Freezing

If you find yourself with extra portions, both the chicken and risoni freeze well. Cool them completely first, then portion into freezer-safe containers. The secret is a splash of broth added before freezing to keep the risoni moist when reheated.

Reheating

To reheat, pop your leftovers in a covered baking dish and warm in a moderate oven (about 170°C/340°F) until hot throughout. If you’re short on time, the microwave works too—just add a few drops of extra broth or water to revive the risoni’s creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of Marylands?

Absolutely! Thighs and drumsticks both work well, though Marylands offer the best of both worlds with juicy results. If using separate pieces, keep in mind that cooking times may be slightly reduced.

Is risoni the same as orzo?

Yes, risoni and orzo are the same type of small, rice-shaped pasta, just known by different names depending on the region. Either will soak up all those lovely baking tray flavors perfectly in this recipe.

What vegetables can I add or swap in?

Feel free to make Tray-Baked Chicken Marylands with Risoni your own by tossing in zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or baby spinach before baking. Mushrooms or sliced carrots also work for extra heartiness and color.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

You bet! The base recipe contains no dairy. Just skip finishing touches like cheese, and Tray-Baked Chicken Marylands with Risoni remains fully dairy-free—ideal for anyone with allergies or preferences.

How can I ensure the risoni doesn’t dry out?

The key is to add the correct amount of broth and cover the baking tray loosely with foil if you notice the risoni drying. Always check, and stir in a splash of extra broth if needed before serving.

Final Thoughts

Tray-Baked Chicken Marylands with Risoni is the kind of recipe you’ll return to again and again for its simplicity and soul-warming flavors. It’s truly a dish that brings comfort and joy to the table with minimal effort—so grab your tray, gather your family, and let this easy bake work its magic tonight!