Baked chicken is a timeless classic that has been gracing dinner tables for generations. It’s a dish that brings comfort and warmth with every bite, and its simplicity makes it a favorite among both novice and experienced cooks. This recipe for Easy Baked Chicken is designed to be foolproof, offering tender, juicy chicken every time. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is your go-to guide for creating perfectly baked chicken.
Origins and Interesting Facts
Chicken has been a staple in human diets for thousands of years, and the art of baking it has evolved alongside culinary traditions worldwide. Baked chicken became popular in the United States during the mid-20th century when convenience foods and simple cooking methods gained traction. The beauty of baked chicken lies in its versatility—it can be dressed up with herbs and spices or kept simple with just salt and pepper.
Ingredients
For this recipe, we focus on using minimal ingredients to highlight the natural flavors of the chicken. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Cooking this easy baked chicken is straightforward. Follow these steps to achieve delicious results:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is crucial for sealing in the chicken’s juices and achieving a golden exterior.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts or thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the oil and seasonings adhere better and promotes even browning.
- In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
- Place the chicken in a large bowl or dish and drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Step 4: Arrange in the Baking Dish
- Arrange the seasoned chicken in a single layer in a baking dish. If using thighs, place them skin-side up for extra crispiness.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes for chicken breasts or 35-40 minutes for thighs. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Rest and Serve
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to be redistributed, keeping the meat moist.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve.
Tips and Variations
Keeping Chicken Moist When Baking
- Covering Chicken: To maintain moisture, you can loosely cover the chicken with aluminum foil during the first half of baking. This traps steam and helps prevent drying.
- Brining: Soak the chicken in a saltwater solution for 30 minutes before cooking to enhance juiciness.
- Basting: Occasionally baste the chicken with its own juices or a little extra olive oil while baking.
Avoiding Dry Chicken
- Avoid overcooking by checking the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Remember that chicken will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.
Variations
- Baked Chicken Breast Recipes with Sauce: Add a simple sauce made of yogurt, mustard, and herbs for a creamy finish.
- Easy Baked Chicken Thighs: Thighs have more fat, which naturally keeps them moist. Try seasoning with a blend of rosemary and thyme for an aromatic twist.
- Easy 4 Ingredient Chicken Breast Recipes: Streamline the recipe further by using only olive oil, salt, pepper, and lemon juice for a clean, fresh taste.
Nutritional Information
Here is the basic nutritional information for one serving of easy baked chicken (based on one breast or thigh):
- Calories: 230
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fat: 14g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 620mg
Conclusion
There you have it—a foolproof recipe for Easy Baked Chicken that promises flavor and tenderness. This dish is perfect for any occasion, offering simplicity and satisfaction in every bite. We encourage you to try this recipe and experiment with different spices and sauces to make it your own. Share your culinary creations and feedback in the comments below, and don’t forget to share the recipe on social media. For more delicious recipes, subscribe to our newsletter and explore other chicken recipes like Baked Chicken Breast Recipes with Sauce and Easy Baked Chicken Thighs on easycrispyrecipes.com.