Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake: The Best Weeknight Meal Ever

Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake is one of those dishes that feels like a hug on a plate, comforting yet exciting, simple yet full of flavor. I first fell in love with this recipe years ago when I was experimenting in my little kitchen, trying to find that perfect balance of sweet heat and savory depth that defines so many Thai-inspired comfort meals. If you’ve ever wondered how something as simple as chicken, rice, and a spoonful of chilli jam could turn into pure magic, you’re about to find out.

Before we dive into the recipe, I want to share a bit of my story, the same one you’ll find on my About Page at Just Thai Recipes. Cooking has always been more than just a passion for me. It’s my way of keeping memories alive, of connecting with people I love, and of exploring flavors that tell stories of culture and home.

When I started Just Thai Recipes, my goal was to help anyone, from beginners to seasoned cooks, feel confident bringing restaurant-quality Thai-inspired meals into their home kitchens. The Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake was actually one of the first recipes I perfected for the site because it’s easy, deeply flavorful, and doesn’t require any fancy ingredients or equipment.

This recipe reflects everything I love about cooking bold spices, sweet and salty harmony, and that irresistible aroma that fills your home when the oven is on. The Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake isn’t just another weeknight dinner, it’s the kind of dish that can turn an ordinary evening into something special. With a bit of prep and a few simple steps, you’ll end up with golden, caramelized chicken, fluffy jasmine rice soaked in savory stock, and just enough heat from the chilli jam to make every bite memorable.

In this post, I’ll walk you through how to make the most mouthwatering Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake you’ve ever tasted. You’ll learn which ingredients make the biggest difference, how to get the perfect texture, and even how to tweak the flavors to suit your taste. And if you’ve ever searched for easy recipes with chilli jam or wondered about the Marion Kitchen Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake everyone talks about online, you’ll find everything you need right here.

So grab your apron, preheat your oven, and let’s start cooking together. This might just become your new favorite dish.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Ingredients

The heart of this Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake lies in its balance. Every ingredient adds something special, from sweetness to spice, from texture to aroma. The ingredients list is simple, approachable, and full of flavor.

• ¼ cup chilli jam (you can try my homemade chilli jam recipe or substitute with ¼ cup of sweet chilli sauce)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 8 pieces of bone-in chicken (I love using a mix of drumsticks and thighs for maximum flavor)
• 2 cups jasmine rice
• 2 garlic cloves, finely grated
• 2 ½ cups chicken stock
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Fried shallots, to serve
• Fresh coriander leaves, to serve

You’ll notice that the list isn’t complicated. It’s the kind of pantry-friendly recipe you can make any night of the week. The key ingredient, of course, is the chilli jam. If you’re using store-bought, go for one that has a good balance of sweetness and spice. If you’ve made your own, even better it will add a deeper homemade flavor that makes your Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake truly shine.

The soy sauce brings umami, the brown sugar adds a gentle caramel sweetness, and the garlic builds that savory backbone. The red onion roasts beautifully alongside the chicken, becoming sweet and tender. Together, these ingredients form the base of a traybake that feels both comforting and special.

A quick note on the rice: jasmine rice works perfectly here because it’s aromatic and absorbs flavors beautifully without getting mushy. The trick to making the perfect Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake is to let the rice soak up all the juices and stock while baking, turning it into something rich and deeply flavored.

If you want to try other recipes using chilli jam, like a Chilli Jam Chicken Nigella–style stir-fry or even a chicken curry tray bake, this same mix of sweet heat and umami will serve you well. But for now, let’s stick with this beautiful traybake that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s walk through how to make this delicious Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake. The beauty of this recipe is that everything happens in one pan, so you spend less time cleaning up and more time enjoying the meal.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 180°C or 350°F. While it’s warming up, take a deep breath and get your tray or casserole dish ready. You want one large enough to hold the chicken and rice comfortably, without overcrowding. This step is simple but important, as it helps the chicken roast evenly.

If you’re using drumsticks and thighs, pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade stick better and gives you that beautiful golden skin once baked.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together the chilli jam, brown sugar, and soy sauce. You’ll instantly smell that sweet and spicy aroma that makes this dish so irresistible. If your chilli jam is thick, loosen it with a tablespoon of warm water.

Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, then toss them until fully coated. This step is where the magic begins. The marinade will cling to the chicken, creating a glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. If you have time, let the chicken rest in the marinade for 15 to 30 minutes, which allows the flavors to soak in even deeper.

This base is what makes every Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake so special. The combination of sweet chilli jam, salty soy, and brown sugar creates that sticky texture and deep color that everyone loves.

Step 3: Layer the Tray

In your casserole dish, add the jasmine rice, grated garlic, and chicken stock. Stir lightly to combine. Place the marinated chicken pieces on top of the rice, skin-side up, then arrange the red onion wedges around them.

Don’t waste a drop of that marinade. Spoon any leftover sauce over the top of the chicken so the rice underneath absorbs all that flavor. Drizzle a tablespoon of vegetable oil across the surface to help everything roast nicely.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish tightly with foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 50 minutes. This allows the rice to cook through and the chicken to stay juicy. After 50 minutes, remove the foil and cook uncovered for another 20 minutes. This helps the top brown and gives you that golden finish.

When it’s ready, your kitchen will smell absolutely incredible. The rice will be fluffy and flavorful, infused with the marinade and chicken stock. The chicken itself will have a deep, glossy glaze from the chilli jam and sugar.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Scatter fried shallots and fresh coriander leaves across the top before serving. They add texture and brightness, balancing the richness of the dish. I also like to serve a small bowl of extra chilli jam or sweet chilli sauce on the side.

And just like that, your Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake is ready to serve. It’s sweet, spicy, savory, and unbelievably satisfying.

Tips & Tricks

Here are a few of my favorite tricks for getting the most out of your Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake.

• Marinate longer if you can. Letting the chicken soak in the sauce for even 30 minutes makes a noticeable difference.
• Use good quality chilli jam. If you can make your own, that’s even better. Homemade versions often have more depth and natural sweetness, which enhances the dish.
• Don’t skip the foil step. Covering the tray helps the rice cook evenly without drying out.
• Use bone-in chicken. It might take a bit longer to cook, but it adds so much more flavor to the dish.
• Add vegetables. You can toss in chopped bell peppers, green beans, or carrots for extra color and nutrients.

If you love exploring easy recipes with chilli jam, this Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake will quickly become your go-to. It’s even better the next day, and it reheats beautifully, which makes it perfect for meal prep.

The mix of flavors is what makes this dish stand out. It has the sweetness of the jam, the saltiness of soy sauce, the umami from the chicken stock, and a little bit of crunch from the shallots. Each bite feels balanced and full of character.

I often get asked how this dish compares to the Marion Kitchen Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake, which is another favorite in many homes. Honestly, they both share similar elements, but this version is a little easier, faster, and uses simple pantry ingredients without losing any of the flavor punch.

If you love Thai-inspired food that’s simple to make and full of life, this recipe fits right in with your weeknight rotation. It’s hearty enough for a family meal but elegant enough to serve to guests.

Variations

One of the best things about this Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake is how flexible it can be. Once you master the base recipe, you can start tweaking it to suit your taste, your pantry, or even your mood. The mix of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors makes this dish a wonderful canvas for creativity. Here are a few of my favorite variations that keep the spirit of the Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake but bring something new each time.

1. Spicy Thai-Style Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake

If you like more heat, you can easily turn up the spice level. Just add a teaspoon of crushed red chili flakes or a few slices of fresh red chili into the marinade. It intensifies the flavor without overwhelming the sweetness of the jam. I once tried this version for a small dinner gathering, and everyone asked for seconds. The balance between the smoky chili and sticky jam was addictive.

2. Coconut Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake

This variation takes the classic Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake and gives it a creamy twist. Add half a cup of coconut milk to the stock before baking. It makes the rice softer and adds a subtle coconut aroma that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the jam. I also like to sprinkle shredded coconut on top during the last few minutes of baking, which gives it a little crunch and tropical flair.

3. Vegetable-Packed Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake

Sometimes, I love adding more color and texture to my Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake. Chopped bell peppers, zucchini, broccoli florets, or even snow peas work really well. They soak up the marinade while baking and make each bite feel lighter but still deeply flavorful. This version is a good choice when you want to balance comfort food with extra nutrition.

4. Sticky Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake with Lemongrass

If you want to add a touch of Thai authenticity, crush a stalk of lemongrass and mix it into your marinade. It adds a citrusy aroma that brightens up the dish. Lemongrass and chilli jam together create that perfect sweet-spicy balance that’s so common in Southeast Asian cooking.

5. Chicken Curry Tray Bake Variation

If you’re craving something closer to a curry flavor, stir a tablespoon of curry paste into the chilli jam mixture. You’ll end up with a hybrid dish that feels like a cross between a curry and a traybake. The rice soaks up all that spicy, creamy goodness, and the chicken becomes tender and rich. This is a favorite on cool evenings when I want something comforting and bold.

Each of these variations keeps the heart of the Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake but gives you new ways to enjoy it. The best part is that it’s almost impossible to mess up. Once you’ve made it once or twice, you’ll start playing with flavors confidently.

If you want to explore more ideas or compare versions, you can check out this Samsung Food Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake recipe. It’s a great source for inspiration and sometimes even offers clever ingredient swaps that make this dish even more exciting.

Nutrition and Health Benefits

A good Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake isn’t just delicious, it’s also nourishing. Each serving offers a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and fats, which makes it a complete meal in itself.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can expect per serving:

• Calories: around 520–560 kcal
• Protein: 32–36 grams
• Carbohydrates: 50–55 grams
• Fat: 18–20 grams

Of course, these numbers can change depending on your ingredients, especially the type of chilli jam or the cut of chicken you use.

Benefits of Key Ingredients

• Chicken: A lean source of protein that supports muscle repair and helps you stay full longer. Using bone-in chicken adds minerals and flavor to the dish.
• Chilli Jam: A blend of red chili, sugar, and vinegar that provides antioxidants and adds a natural energy boost from the mild spice.
• Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties, it also adds a savory depth that enhances the balance of sweet and salty flavors in your Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake.
• Coriander: A bright, fresh herb that brings a burst of color and also aids digestion.
• Jasmine Rice: Light, fragrant, and gluten-free, it absorbs all the saucy flavors beautifully while providing a good source of carbohydrates.

If you make this Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake regularly, you’ll probably notice how satisfying it is without feeling heavy. It’s one of those recipes that hits the perfect comfort spot — hearty but not greasy, flavorful but not complicated.

For anyone who enjoys exploring recipes using chilli jam, this dish offers a wonderful example of how something sweet and spicy can come together in harmony. The chilli jam gives the chicken that golden, glossy look while caramelizing in the oven, which is why this traybake always looks as good as it tastes.

I’ve had readers tell me they make this Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake every week because it’s reliable, easy, and family-friendly. Even kids love it, especially when you serve it with a little extra sweet chilli sauce on the side.

Another nice touch is that this Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake can be customized for meal prep. You can cook it ahead, portion it out, and store it for up to three days. It reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave without losing flavor.

This combination of health benefits, flavor, and flexibility is what makes the Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake so special. It’s not just food; it’s a dish that brings comfort, joy, and a little kick of excitement to the dinner table.

Make-Ahead, Storage, and Freezing

One of the best things about the Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake is how forgiving it is when it comes to meal prep. It’s the kind of dish that fits perfectly into a busy week, and it tastes just as amazing the next day. I often make it on a Sunday evening, so I can enjoy it for lunch or dinner during the week. The flavors somehow deepen overnight, making it even more delicious.

If you want to prepare your Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake ahead of time, here’s what works best:

1. Marinate in Advance
You can mix the marinade and coat the chicken a day ahead. Store the marinated chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. This gives the flavors more time to soak into the meat, and when you bake it the next day, the taste is richer and more developed.

2. Preassemble Before Baking
Another option is to assemble the entire tray the night before. Place the rice, stock, garlic, and chicken into the baking dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to cook, take it out and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking. This way, your Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake can go straight from fridge to oven without losing any of its charm.

3. Storing Leftovers
If you end up with leftovers, which honestly doesn’t happen often in my house, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, sprinkle a tablespoon of water over the rice before covering it with a lid or damp paper towel. Warm it in the microwave for two to three minutes or in a low oven until heated through. The flavors will still be wonderful, and the rice will stay soft.

4. Freezing the Traybake
Yes, you can freeze Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, and once cooled completely, store it for up to two months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it gently in the oven. I find that freezing does not change the flavor much, although the rice becomes slightly softer. It’s still comforting and full of that signature sweet-spicy flavor.

If you love having ready-to-eat meals that still taste homemade, this traybake is perfect. It’s proof that a simple recipe can make your week feel more organized and your dinners stress-free.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though the Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake is simple, a few small things can make or break the result. Here are the most common mistakes people make and how to fix them.

1. Using the Wrong Rice
Jasmine rice is ideal because it cooks evenly and absorbs the sauce without turning sticky. If you use short-grain or basmati rice, you might end up with uneven cooking. Stick with jasmine for the best texture.

2. Not Covering the Tray During Baking
If you skip the foil in the first part of baking, your rice might dry out. Covering the tray helps the steam build up, which cooks the rice perfectly.

3. Overbaking the Chicken
Keep an eye on your cooking time. Chicken thighs and drumsticks are forgiving, but they can still dry out if left too long uncovered. You want golden skin but still juicy meat inside.

4. Skipping the Oil Drizzle
That tablespoon of oil might seem optional, but it helps the chicken brown beautifully and keeps the top layer moist.

5. Not Using Enough Marinade
The magic of the Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake lies in its marinade. If you’re light-handed with it, the dish won’t have that glossy, sticky finish. Make sure every piece of chicken gets a generous coating before baking.

Avoiding these simple mistakes ensures your Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake turns out perfect every single time. The rice stays fluffy, the chicken juicy, and the flavors balanced.

Cultural or Historical Background

The Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake is a perfect example of how Thai-inspired flavors can blend beautifully with Western cooking methods. While traybakes are more common in European kitchens, Thai flavors have made their way into homes around the world. The combination of sweet chilli jam, soy sauce, and garlic reflects that fusion perfectly.

Chilli jam itself has an interesting history. In Thailand, sweet and spicy condiments have been used for generations to balance dishes that combine heat, saltiness, and tang. When the concept of chilli jam traveled west, cooks started using it in everything from glazes to marinades, and eventually, dishes like the Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake were born.

This dish captures that balance of cultures the ease of a Western-style traybake with the boldness of Thai-inspired ingredients. The result is comfort food that feels both familiar and exotic.

When I first tested this recipe for Just Thai Recipes, I wanted it to reflect that global kitchen feeling — something that feels authentic but still accessible to anyone. The Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake quickly became a favorite among readers because it’s so easy and satisfying.

I also love that this dish tells a story. It shows how food connects people, cultures, and traditions. Whether you make your own chilli jam or buy a jar from your favorite store, each version carries its own little twist. And that’s exactly what makes this recipe so timeless.

In many ways, the Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake has become more than just a meal. It’s a symbol of how flavors evolve when shared across kitchens and continents. It’s sweet and spicy like Thai street food, yet cozy and hearty like a Sunday roast. It fits perfectly into today’s world, where we all crave comfort and excitement on the same plate.

Serving Suggestions

One of my favorite things about the Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake is how versatile it is when it comes to serving. You can dress it up for guests or keep it casual for a weeknight meal. The flavors are already bold and balanced, but pairing it with the right sides can make it even more exciting.

If you’re making Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake for a family dinner, try serving it with a fresh cucumber salad. The coolness of cucumber with a squeeze of lime cuts through the richness of the sticky glaze, giving a light and refreshing contrast. I sometimes add a sprinkle of roasted peanuts or sesame seeds for extra crunch.

For a comforting dinner, a side of roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or sweet potatoes works beautifully. The sweetness from the roasted veggies complements the heat and tang of the chilli jam marinade.

When I serve this Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake to guests, I like to bring it straight to the table in the tray. The caramelized chicken, the golden rice, and the glistening shallots make it look like something out of a restaurant, even though it’s all cooked in one dish. It has that wow factor without any stress.

You can also pair it with a simple soup like Thai coconut soup or a light miso broth. It balances the meal and adds another layer of warmth to the table. If you prefer something simple, just serve it with a squeeze of lime and extra chilli jam on the side.

For drinks, iced jasmine tea or a chilled ginger-lime soda goes perfectly with Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake. The citrusy freshness cuts through the savory richness and leaves you feeling satisfied but not heavy.

If you’re planning a picnic or potluck, this traybake travels well. You can bake it in advance, cover it tightly, and serve it warm or at room temperature. It’s one of those dishes that never loses its charm.

It’s interesting how many home cooks fall in love with this recipe and then go looking for similar dishes. You’ll often see people searching for things like Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake recipe, Marion Kitchen Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake, and Chilli Jam Chicken Nigella because these dishes share that same comforting sweet-spicy balance.

Other popular searches include easy recipes with chilli jam, chicken curry tray bake, and recipes using chilli jam. All of these share the same spirit of simplicity and big flavor.

If you’ve made this Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake and want to try something different, you might enjoy exploring those variations. Each one brings something unique to the table while keeping that comforting, sticky, and savory base that makes this dish so addictive.

And if you’ve been meaning to make your own chilli jam recipe, this traybake is the best excuse to do it. Homemade chilli jam has a depth that’s hard to beat and makes your Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake taste even more special.

Conclusion

Cooking this Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake always feels a little magical. It starts with simple ingredients, but somehow the oven transforms everything into something extraordinary. The chicken becomes golden and juicy, the rice turns fluffy and flavorful, and the aroma fills your kitchen in a way that makes everyone wander in asking, “What’s cooking?”

For me, this dish isn’t just about convenience. It’s about comfort, warmth, and the joy of sharing food that feels homemade and full of love. Every time I make Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake, it reminds me why I started Just Thai Recipes to show that cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be amazing.

If this is your first time making it, take your time and enjoy the process. Smell the marinade, listen to the sizzle when it comes out of the oven, and taste the first bite slowly. You’ll see how all the flavors the sweet, the salty, and the spicy come together in perfect balance.

And once you’ve made it, don’t forget to share your Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake with someone you love. Food is meant to bring people together, and this dish does exactly that.

If you enjoyed this recipe, make sure to check out more comforting dishes on Just Thai Recipes. Try the [Internal Link: Creamy Coconut Thai Curry] or [Internal Link: Spicy Basil Chicken Stir Fry] next time you’re craving something bold and easy.

Now, let’s finish with a few common questions I often get about this beautiful Chicken and Chilli Jam Traybake.

FAQ

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