Spring Chicken and Butter Bean Traybake

Last updated: June 2026. Recipe tested and refreshed for accuracy.

As spring settles in and the days grow longer, our kitchens naturally shift away from heavy winter dishes towards fresher flavors and lighter meals. It’s the perfect time to embrace simple, seasonal cooking the whole family will adore, using beautiful ingredients like tender spring greens and sweet new potatoes.

This one-pan chicken and butter bean traybake perfectly captures the essence of the season. It’s a hearty, wholesome family dinner that requires minimal prep, letting the oven do all the work. We’ve paired tender chicken with creamy butter beans and wilted greens, all brought to life with a zesty, herby salsa verde that you can whip up while the traybake roasts. It’s a complete, satisfying meal designed to keep your weeknight cooking both easy and delicious.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 500g (about 1 lb) new potatoes, halved
• 1 lemon, halved
• 4 cloves garlic, lightly crushed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 (400g / 15 oz) can butter beans, rinsed and drained
• 200g (about 7 oz) spring greens, such as kale or chard, tough stems removed
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Herby Salsa Verde:

• 1 large bunch fresh parsley
• 1/2 bunch fresh mint
• 2 tbsp capers, drained
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). On a large baking tray, toss the new potatoes, crushed garlic, and one half of the lemon with the olive oil. Season generously with salt and pepper and arrange in a single layer. Roast for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the tray from the oven. Nestle the chicken thighs among the potatoes, skin-side up. Squeeze the juice from the remaining lemon half over the chicken. Return the tray to the oven and roast for another 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is golden and crisp.
3. While the chicken is roasting, prepare the salsa verde. Finely chop the parsley, mint, capers, and minced garlic. Combine them in a small bowl, then stir in the red wine vinegar and extra virgin olive oil. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper and set aside.
4. For the final 5 minutes of cooking, scatter the rinsed butter beans and spring greens onto the baking tray. Toss gently with the pan juices and return to the oven until the greens have wilted.
5. Remove the tray from the oven. Serve the chicken and vegetables drizzled generously with the fresh herby salsa verde.

Nutrition

Nutrient	Amount per serving
Calories	580 kcal
Protein	42g
Carbohydrates	35g
Fat	30g

Pro Tips From My Kitchen

1. For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before adding it to the tray.
2. Don’t crowd the pan! Give the chicken and vegetables plenty of space to roast, not steam.
3. Pat your chicken pieces completely dry with paper towels before seasoning for the crispiest skin.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning before the final 10 minutes of baking. Add a pinch more salt or a squeeze of lemon if needed.
5. Use fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, roughly chopped, tossed with the vegetables before baking for an amazing aroma.
6. A drizzle of good quality olive oil just before serving really brightens up all the flavors.

Recipe Variations

• Swap the butter beans for 1.5 cups of halved cherry tomatoes and 1 cup of Kalamata olives for a Mediterranean twist.
• Add 1 cup of chopped bell peppers (any color) and 1 diced red onion along with the potatoes.
• For a spicy kick, add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the vegetable mixture before roasting.
• Use pork tenderloin cut into 1-inch chunks instead of chicken for a different protein option. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Stir in a handful of baby spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking until it wilts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this traybake ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the traybake up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. I find the flavors meld beautifully overnight. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking, or add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How long does the leftover traybake last?

Leftovers will keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes until heated through, or gently warm the whole tray in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

Why is my chicken skin not crispy?

For the crispiest chicken skin, make sure your chicken pieces are patted completely dry before seasoning. Also, ensure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F (200°C) and avoid overcrowding the tray. Give everything space so the hot air can circulate.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless thighs cook faster, so I’d reduce the initial roasting time by about 10-15 minutes. Add them to the tray halfway through cooking the vegetables, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

What can I substitute for butter beans?

Great alternatives include cannellini beans or even chickpeas. Just drain and rinse them well. If you use smaller beans like navy beans, they might break down a bit more during cooking, creating a creamier sauce, which I also love!

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as written, assuming your chicken broth and any seasonings you use are certified gluten-free. It’s a fantastic option for those avoiding gluten. Always check your ingredient labels to be sure.

Can I freeze this traybake?

I don’t recommend freezing this traybake once it’s cooked. The beans can become mushy, and the texture of the vegetables might suffer. It’s best enjoyed fresh or reheated within a few days of baking.

What size baking dish do I need?

I use a standard 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish for this recipe. This size allows everything to spread out in a single layer, ensuring even cooking and browning. If your dish is smaller, you might need to use two.

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