Ingredients
To create a delightful foil-baked chicken dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
These ingredients are not only simple but also allow you to savor the natural flavors of the chicken while adding a hint of zest and spice.
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to achieve perfectly baked chicken every time:
Preparing the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the foil packets by tearing off four pieces of aluminum foil, each large enough to completely wrap a chicken breast.
- Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub each piece with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and paprika.
Assembling the Packets
- Assemble the packets: Place each chicken breast on a piece of foil. Top with a few slices of lemon and a sprinkle of minced garlic.
- Seal the packets: Fold the sides of the foil over the chicken, then fold the top and bottom edges to seal the packet, ensuring no juices can escape.
Baking
- Bake in the oven: Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven. For chicken breasts, bake for about 25-30 minutes. For bone-in thighs, you might need to extend the time to 35-40 minutes.
- Check for doneness: Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) using a meat thermometer.
Finishing Touches
- Rest the chicken: Remove the foil packets from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before opening.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips and Variations
Cooking Tips
- Moist baked chicken breast in foil: To ensure extra moistness, marinate the chicken breasts for at least an hour before baking.
- Should you bake chicken on aluminum foil?: Yes, baking chicken on foil helps retain moisture and allows for easy cleanup.
- Does foil keep chicken crispy?: Foil helps keep the chicken moist rather than crispy. To achieve a crispy texture, consider removing the foil in the last few minutes of baking.
Variations
- Herb-infused chicken: Experiment with different herbs such as oregano or basil for a unique flavor profile.
- Asian-inspired chicken: For a taste of the East, try adding soy sauce and ginger to your seasoning mix.
- Chinese foil-wrapped chicken: Incorporate hoisin sauce and sesame oil for a distinctly Chinese flavor.
Substitutions
- Replace chicken breasts with thighs for a richer taste. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Substitute lemon slices with orange slices for a sweeter citrus flavor.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a basic nutritional breakdown per serving (assuming four servings):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 600mg
Foil-baked chicken is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a convenient and delicious meal option. The method’s versatility allows you to personalize flavors to suit your taste, making it a staple for family dinners or meal prep. Plus, the minimal cleanup makes it even more appealing!
Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or simply prepare a quick weeknight meal, this recipe offers a reliable way to achieve juicy, flavorful chicken every time. Give it a try and share your experience with us in the comments below. We’d love to hear about your variations and tips!
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