Dinner

Chicken Tava Recipe

Name: Chicken Tava Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Turkish
Ingredients: 600 grams boneless chicken breast, cut into 2-inch squares; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon thyme; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon grated garlic (from the 6 cloves); 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 2 large tomatoes, cut into pieces; 1 large potato, cut into 2-inch squares; 1 medium green bell pepper, cut into 2-inch sizes; 1 large red onion, cut into small pieces; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 5 cloves garlic, grated; 5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon salted butter (optional); 1 tablespoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon paprika (remaining)

ByMaya bella January 31, 2026January 31, 2026

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Introduction

Chicken Tava is a flavorful Turkish dish that combines tender chicken with a vibrant mix of vegetables and spices. Oven-baked to perfection, it’s simple to prepare and makes a comforting, hearty meal.

A rectangular dark blue baking tray holds a dish with multiple layers, placed on a white marbled textured tablecloth with colorful patterns. The first layer is a mix of roughly cut vegetables in different colors and textures, such as red tomatoes, green bell peppers, and light yellow potatoes, scattered unevenly across the tray. On top of this vegetable mix, there is a layer of browned chicken pieces that have a cooked, slightly crispy texture with some spices visible, giving a light golden to beige color. The colors blend naturally with some juices and oils creating a slight shine on the surface. The edges of the tray have some roasted bits, enhancing the rustic look of the dish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

600 grams boneless chicken breast, cut into 2-inch squares
2 large tomatoes, cut into pieces
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 large red onion, cut into small pieces
6 cloves garlic, grated
1 medium green bell pepper, cut into 2-inch pieces
1 large potato, cut into 2-inch squares
6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon thyme
1 tablespoon paprika
1 tablespoon salted butter (optional)
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Add the tomatoes, potatoes, bell pepper, and onion to a metal baking pan.
Step 2: In a separate bowl, combine the chicken with cumin, thyme, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon grated garlic, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Set aside.
Step 3: Return to the baking pan and add the tomato paste, remaining garlic, paprika, and the spiced chicken. Gently mix everything together.
Step 4: Pour the remaining olive oil over the pan and mix again. Arrange the chicken on top of the vegetables to prevent them from overcooking.
Step 5: Season with salt and black pepper. Adjust the color and flavor by adding more tomato paste or paprika if desired.
Step 6: Place a tablespoon of butter in the center of the pan if using.
Step 7: Cover the pan with foil to keep the chicken and its juices moist during cooking.
Step 8: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Bake the pan for 30 minutes.
Step 9: Remove the foil and broil the dish for 5-10 minutes until the chicken and vegetables develop a nice browned color.
Step 10: Serve hot with Turkish sides such as salad, fries, or pita bread. Enjoy your meal!

Tips & Variations

For extra richness, add a splash of lemon juice before serving.
Use chicken thighs instead of breast for juicier meat.
Try adding chili flakes if you prefer a spicier dish.
Vegetables like carrots or zucchini can be added for more variety.

Storage

Store leftover Chicken Tava in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to retain moisture and flavor.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a blue speckled roasting pan filled with a baked dish featuring multiple layers of cooked vegetables and pieces of browned chicken on top. At the bottom, slices of red onion, red and green bell peppers, and squarish yellow potatoes create a colorful, slightly glossy base with a mix of soft textures. The upper layer shows tender, golden-brown chicken pieces scattered unevenly, some with visible grill marks and a slightly crispy surface. The whole pan rests on a white marbled textured surface partially covered with a patterned cloth in shades of blue and gray. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw the chicken completely before seasoning and cooking to ensure even cooking and food safety.

Is it necessary to cover the pan with foil during baking?

Covering with foil helps keep the chicken moist by trapping steam, preventing it from drying out. Removing the foil towards the end allows for browning.