Baked Chicken is a simple, healthy, and versatile dish that works for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can enjoy tender, juicy chicken with a perfectly seasoned, crispy skin. This method ensures flavorful chicken that pairs well with almost any side dish, making it a kitchen staple.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare: Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
- Healthy: Baking uses less oil, making it a lighter choice.
- Versatile: Perfect as a main dish or for meal prep.
- Customizable: Adjust the seasoning to match your taste.
- Consistent results: Always juicy and delicious!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or your preferred chicken cuts)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the skin get crispy when baked.
- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken, ensuring even coverage.
- Place the chicken on the prepared baking sheet, skin side up.
- Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). For extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes at the end.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-45 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Variations
- Different Cuts: Use chicken breasts, drumsticks, or wings, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
- Herb Crusted: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley for added flavor.
- Spicy Option: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or add cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
- Marinated Chicken: Marinate the chicken in your favorite sauce or dressing for extra flavor.
- Lemon-Garlic Chicken: Add fresh lemon juice and zest along with minced garlic.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave for a quicker option.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use boneless, skinless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time to avoid overcooking. Boneless cuts typically take 25-30 minutes.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Should I cover the chicken while baking?
No, leaving it uncovered helps the skin get crispy.
Can I use other seasonings?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix up the spices to suit your taste preferences.
How do I keep the chicken from drying out?
Do not overbake the chicken and let it rest before serving to keep it juicy.
What sides go well with baked chicken?
Serve with rice, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Can I bake frozen chicken?
Yes, but add extra cooking time and ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.
How do I make the skin extra crispy?
Broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, baked chicken is great for meal prep. It keeps well and can be added to salads, sandwiches, or pasta dishes.
Can I add a sauce to baked chicken?
Sure! Barbecue, honey mustard, or garlic butter sauces work well. Add sauce during the last 10 minutes of baking for the best results.
Conclusion
Baked Chicken is a reliable and delicious recipe that you’ll return to again and again. It’s easy, versatile, and delivers juicy, flavorful chicken every time. Whether you’re feeding the family, meal prepping, or hosting a dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it with your favorite sides and enjoy a wholesome, satisfying meal!
Print
Baked Chicken
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This simple and flavorful Baked Chicken recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken with a deliciously crispy skin. It’s perfect for a quick and healthy dinner and pairs well with a variety of sides.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. -
Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the skin get crispy. -
Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over the chicken, ensuring all sides are coated. -
Bake:
Place the chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet, skin side up. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy. -
Optional Broil:
For extra crispy skin, broil the chicken on high for 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. -
Serve:
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked without drying it out.
- Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts or drumsticks if preferred. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.