There’s something truly comforting about the aroma of garlic wafting through the kitchen as dinner cooks in the oven. Robust Garlic Baked Chicken is a classic dish that brings together the deep, savory flavors of garlic with the tender juiciness of baked chicken. Originating from simple yet flavorful home cooking, this recipe has become a staple in many households. Whether you prefer thighs or breasts, the garlic infuses the chicken with a delightful depth of flavor that is both irresistible and satisfying. In this article, we’ll explore how to make this easy garlic chicken recipe, offer tips for variations, and provide nutritional information to help you enjoy this dish to its fullest.
Ingredients
For Robust Garlic Baked Chicken
- Chicken Thighs or Breasts: 4 pieces (about 2 pounds total)
- Garlic Cloves: 10 cloves, minced
- Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons
- Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons
- Honey: 1 tablespoon
- Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Fresh Parsley: For garnish
Instructions
Preparing the Marinade
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, honey, soy sauce, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well to create a robust garlic marinade.
- Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken thighs or breasts in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Baking the Chicken
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Baking Dish: Arrange the marinated chicken in a single layer in a baking dish. Pour any remaining marinade over the top.
- Bake Chicken: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces.
- Broil for Crispness: For a crispy finish, switch the oven to broil for the last 3-5 minutes, keeping a close eye on the chicken to prevent burning.
- Rest and Garnish: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a simple side of roasted vegetables or garlic chicken pasta for a complete meal.
- Serve over rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful juices.
Tips and Variations
Tips for Cooking
- Marinating Time: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more robust the flavor. If short on time, aim for at least 30 minutes.
- Even Cooking: For even cooking, try to use chicken pieces of similar size and thickness.
- Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest after baking to ensure juicy and tender meat.
Variations
- Honey Garlic Chicken: Add more honey for a sweeter glaze and a touch of brown sugar for caramelization.
- Spicy Garlic Chicken: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Herb Garlic Chicken: Increase the lemon juice and add fresh herbs like rosemary and basil for a bright, herbal flavor.
- Garlic Chicken Chinese Style: Add ginger and a splash of rice wine vinegar for an Asian-inspired twist.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 6g
Conclusion
Robust Garlic Baked Chicken is a delightful dish that offers comfort and satisfaction with every bite. It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. With its rich garlic flavor and juicy texture, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Don’t forget to experiment with the variations and tips provided to make this dish truly your own. We invite you to try this recipe and share your experiences in the comments below. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to explore other delicious recipes on easycrispyrecipes.com, and subscribe to our newsletter for more mouth-watering dishes.