How To Make Easy & Delicious Baked Chicken Recipe

Craving a Dinner That’s Easy, Impressive, and Bursting With Flavor?

Then get ready to fall in love with this simple yet sensational baked chicken recipe! Imagine tender, juicy chicken, perfectly seasoned and cooked to golden perfection. The kind of meal that feels like a treat, but is a breeze to make. You’re just minutes away from a satisfying, flavor-packed dinner that the whole family will adore. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love It

• Incredibly Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep time and uses simple techniques that even beginner cooks can master.
• Unbelievably Flavorful: A carefully chosen blend of herbs and spices creates a savory, aromatic crust that will make your taste buds sing.
• Juicy and Tender: The oven-baking method ensures the chicken remains succulent and tender, not dry or tough.
• Versatile: It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal, and pairs well with a variety of side dishes.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. It’s your kitchen, your rules!

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

This isn’t your average baked chicken recipe. The secret lies in the combination of simple ingredients and a specific technique. We’re using a blend of dried herbs like oregano, thyme, and paprika for a beautiful flavor profile that’s both earthy and a little smoky. Also, we’re not just throwing seasonings on the chicken; we’re creating a flavorful paste that adheres beautifully to the chicken, ensuring every bite is packed with deliciousness.

Ingredient List

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – This adds moisture and helps the seasonings adhere.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika– It provides a great smoky flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, dried oregano, dried thyme, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to form a paste.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish.
4. Spread the herb paste evenly over the top of each chicken breast, ensuring they are fully coated.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Optional Toppings/Variations

Feel free to get creative with your chicken! Here are a few ideas:

• Lemon Burst: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken after baking for a bright, citrusy touch.
• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top for extra flavor and a pop of color.
• Cheese Please: Add a layer of shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy crust.

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Make sure there’s space around each chicken breast for even cooking.
• Use a meat thermometer: Ensure your chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Don’t overcook: Overcooked chicken can be dry. Check the chicken after 20 minutes and bake until just done.
• Rest the chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps it retain its juices and tenderness.
• Adjust seasonings: Taste the herb paste before applying to the chicken and adjust the seasonings to your preference.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use bone-in chicken? Absolutely! You may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Bone-in chicken may take longer to cook.
• Can I substitute fresh herbs for dried herbs? Yes! If using fresh herbs, use about 1 tablespoon of each for every 1 teaspoon of dried herbs.
• Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the chicken and the herb paste ahead of time. Store the chicken in the fridge and bake just before serving.
• How long can I store leftover chicken? Leftover baked chicken can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container.
• What side dishes go well with this chicken? This baked chicken pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad.

Variations and Customization Options

The great thing about this recipe is how easily you can adapt it to your liking. Here are some fun ideas to try:

• Mediterranean Chicken: Add a touch of lemon zest to the herb paste and a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese after baking.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the herb paste for a little heat.
• Italian Herb Blend: Swap out the dried herbs for an Italian herb blend for a different flavor profile.
• Garlic Lovers: Add more garlic powder or finely minced fresh garlic to the herb paste for a bolder garlic flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This baked chicken is a versatile main course that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal. It also goes beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or a light and fresh garden salad. Don’t forget a slice of crusty bread to soak up all those delicious juices!

Conclusion

So there you have it – a recipe that’s incredibly simple, bursting with flavor, and guaranteed to impress. This baked chicken is a weeknight hero and a crowd-pleaser, all in one. Ready to give it a try? We think you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create a truly delicious meal. Don’t forget to share your pictures with us and subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious and easy recipes! 

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