Chicken Avocado and Crunchy Potato Tray Bake for Busy Nights

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

There s something truly comforting about a one-pan meal that comes together with minimal fuss. Picture this: a busy weeknight, the clock is ticking, and you re longing for a homemade dinner that the whole family will devour. Enter the Chicken Avocado and Crunchy Potato Tray Bake a dish so beautifully uncomplicated that it feels like a warm hug on a plate. With tender chicken marinated in zesty lemon and fragrant herbs, crispy potatoes, and creamy avocado, this recipe is a delightful balance of flavors and textures. It s not just easy to make, it s also a crowd-pleaser that ticks all the boxes for a healthy, satisfying meal. Whether you re feeding picky eaters or impressing guests with a simple yet stunning feast, this tray bake is your go-to solution. Let s dive in and transform your dinner routine!

Why you ll love this Chicken Avocado and Crunchy Potato Tray Bake?

Simplicity at its finest: This easy one-pan recipe requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor, perfect for those hectic weeknights.
Rustic, hearty charm: The combination of tender chicken, crispy potatoes, and creamy avocado creates an irresistible comforting dish.
Health-conscious choice: Packed with protein, healthy fats, and vibrant greens, it s a nutritious meal that still feels indulgent.
Kid-friendly and versatile: This recipe adapts easily to picky eaters or vegetable swaps, ensuring everyone goes back for seconds!
Quick cleanup: With just one tray to wash, you ll have more time to relax after dinner, making it ideal for busy families.

Chicken Avocado and Crunchy Potato Tray Bake Ingredients

Get ready to create a delightful meal!

For the Chicken Marinade

• Chicken Choose between breast or thighs for juicy tenderness.
• Olive Oil Adds moisture; feel free to substitute with avocado or coconut oil if desired.
• Garlic Infuses a rich aroma; adjust according to your preference for intensity.
• Salt and Pepper Essential for accentuating the flavors; remember to lower the salt for dietary needs.
• Lemon Juice Brings brightness; always go for freshly squeezed for the best taste.
• Oregano Offers an earthy depth; use fresh for a vibrant flavor or dried for convenience.

For the Base

• Potatoes Use waxy varieties for the perfect crunch; about 1 cubes work best.
• Green Beans Adds a pop of color and nutrition; consider swapping them for asparagus if you like.

For the Finish

• Avocado Provides creaminess; ripened ones offer the best texture and taste.
• Baby Spinach Boosts freshness and nutrition; kale can be used as a swap if needed.
• Feta Cheese Crumbled on top for added zing; omit for a tasty dairy-free option.

This Chicken Avocado and Crunchy Potato Tray Bake is sure to become a family favorite!

How to Make Chicken Avocado and Crunchy Potato Tray Bake

1. Preheat the oven to 220 °C (fan forced). This step ensures that your chicken and potatoes get that perfect crispy texture as they bake.
2. Combine the chicken, olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and oregano in a large bowl. Mix everything well and set aside to marinate for a few minutes. This boosts flavors, making your dish even more delicious.
3. Arrange the waxy potato cubes on a large oven tray. Bake them for about 15 minutes, or until golden brown and slightly crisp. You want that lovely texture to hold up throughout the meal.
4. Add the marinated chicken over the potatoes, along with any leftover marinade and lemon slices. Bake for an additional 28-30 minutes, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 75 °C. You should see juicy, cooked chicken ready to shine!
5. Top with fresh green beans, creamy avocado slices, and baby spinach before serving. If you re feeling indulgent, crumble some feta cheese on top and drizzle with extra olive oil to finish.

Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for a vibrant pop of color and flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Avocado and Crunchy Potato Tray Bake

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Be sure to let the dish cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, followed by a freezer-safe container to avoid freezer burn.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 180 °C for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This method retains the crunchy texture of the potatoes better than the microwave.
• Meal Prep: Consider preparing the Chicken Avocado and Crunchy Potato Tray Bake ahead of time, allowing for a delicious and convenient meal that s ready to go when you need it!

Make Ahead Options

These convenient make ahead options for the Chicken Avocado and Crunchy Potato Tray Bake are perfect for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and develop. Simply combine the chicken, olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and oregano, then refrigerate until you re ready to bake. You can also chop the potatoes and store them in cold water in the fridge to prevent browning, ensuring they stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you re ready to serve, just follow the baking instructions from the recipe, and you ll have a delightful dinner with minimal effort and maximum flavor!

Chicken Avocado Variations

There s nothing quite like personalizing a dish to truly make it your own. Let your creativity flow and tantalize your taste buds with these fun twists!

• Turkey Swap: Use ground or sliced turkey for a leaner protein alternative that still packs great flavor.
• Sweet Potato Upgrade: Replace traditional potatoes with sweet potatoes for a delightful twist on sweetness and color, enhancing nutrition.
• Vegetable Medley: Experiment with seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus, bringing freshness and vibrant colors to the tray bake.
• Spice It Up: Add a sprinkle of chili flakes or cumin for an extra kick of heat and robust flavor that livens up the dish.
• Herbal Infusion: Try fresh rosemary or thyme in place of oregano to elevate the dish with new fragrant notes and a garden-fresh aroma.
• Creamy Alternative: Swap feta for goat cheese or a vegan cheese option for a creaminess that accommodates different diets without losing taste.
• Lemon Zest Boost: Incorporate lemon zest into your marinade for a bright, zesty punch that enhances the dish s refreshing qualities.
• Grain Add-in: Serve this tray bake over quinoa or brown rice for added texture and heartiness, turning it into a complete meal.

What to Serve with Chicken Avocado and Crunchy Potato Tray Bake?

Transform your weeknight dinner into a delightful experience by complementing this easy tray bake with fresh and vibrant side dishes.

• Simple Green Salad: Fresh, crisp greens tossed with a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty tray bake.
• Garlic Bread: Its warm, buttery texture beautifully contrasts the dish s savory flavors, making it a cozy side option.
• Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted seasonal vegetables add color and nutrition, enhancing the meal with their natural sweetness.
• Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed salad with herbs and lemon adds vibrancy, contributing both taste and texture to each bite.
• Herb Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa seasoned with fresh herbs offers a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy avocado.
• Fruit Chutney: A scoop of tangy fruit chutney can add a delightful sweetness; it brings a burst of unexpected flavor to the table.

Pairing these options with your Chicken Avocado and Crunchy Potato Tray Bake will create a well-rounded meal that the entire family will adore!

Expert Tips for Chicken Avocado and Crunchy Potato Tray Bake

• Perfect Cooking: Use a meat thermometer: Ensure the chicken reaches 75 °C internally for safe consumption without drying out.
• Crispy Potatoes: Parboil before baking: To achieve extra crunch, parboil the potatoes for a few minutes before placing them in the oven.
• Marinating Time: Longer is better: If time allows, marinate the chicken for 30 minutes to deepen the flavor of your Chicken Avocado and Crunchy Potato Tray Bake.
• Veggie Options: Feel free to swap: Other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini work beautifully, allowing customization in flavor and nutrition.
• Storage Tip: Plan for leftovers: Store any extra servings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best taste.

Chicken Avocado and Crunchy Potato Tray Bake Recipe FAQs

How do I choose perfect avocados for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for avocados that are slightly soft when pressed gently but still firm to the touch. Avoid any with dark spots or dents. Ripe avocados will enhance the creaminess and flavor of your Chicken Avocado and Crunchy Potato Tray Bake.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very easy! Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate them right away. They ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just remember to let the dish cool down completely before sealing it up to prevent moisture from spoiling the food.

Can I freeze the Chicken Avocado and Crunchy Potato Tray Bake?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual portions in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. This will prevent freezer burn. You can store it for up to 2 months. When you re ready to enjoy, simply reheat it in the oven at 180 °C for 15-20 minutes until hot throughout.

What if my potatoes aren t crispy enough?
If your potatoes aren t reaching that desired crunch, try parboiling them for a few minutes before baking. This small step gives them a head start, letting them develop a beautiful golden color and texture in the oven. Also, ensure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature for optimal results!

Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Very doable! Simply omit the feta cheese, or substitute it with a dairy-free cheese alternative. You won t miss it! The Chicken Avocado and Crunchy Potato Tray Bake will still be incredibly delicious and creamy thanks to the ripe avocados and the spice mix you use.

Is this meal suitable for young children?
Absolutely! This dish is kid-friendly and can be adjusted to suit their tastes. You can cut the chicken into smaller pieces and modify the herbs to ensure it s milder. Plus, the crispy potatoes and creamy avocado are usually a hit with kids, making it easier to incorporate more veggies into their meals!