basic baked chicken recipe

The Best basic baked chicken recipe

I love a good baked chicken recipe, and this one is a staple in my household. It’s easy to make, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. I’ve been making it for years, and it’s always a hit with my family.

The best part is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it with a variety of sides, from mashed potatoes to roasted vegetables. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is one of their favorites to assist with. We like to make it on Sundays for family gatherings or during the week for a quick and easy dinner.

The health benefits of baked chicken are numerous – it’s lean protein, low in fat, and packed with nutrients. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite herbs and spices. I like to use fresh thyme and rosemary for a classic flavor.

My husband swears by adding a little bit of paprika for an extra kick. Whatever you choose, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household like it has in mine. The key to making great baked chicken is to not overcook it – you want it to be juicy and tender.

I like to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe, but you can also use thighs or a combination of both if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. One thing I’ve learned over the years is that the quality of the ingredients really matters.

Use fresh herbs, high-quality olive oil, and don’t skimp on the salt – it makes all the difference in the world.

Basic Baked Chicken

4.7 from 589 votes

A simple and delicious recipe for baked chicken that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Tender and juicy chicken with a crispy skin.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
2 tbsp olive oil

For the Lemon Herb Sauce

1/4 cup lemon juice
1/4 cup chicken broth
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried mixed herbs
1 tsp olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, and paprika.
4Sprinkle the mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
5Drizzle with olive oil and rub to coat the chicken evenly.
6Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overlapping.
7Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
8Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the chicken.
9Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
10While the chicken is baking, prepare the lemon herb sauce.
11In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
12Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
13Add lemon juice, chicken broth, and dried herbs.
14Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
15Remove from heat and set aside.
16Slice the baked chicken breasts into strips.
17Drizzle the lemon herb sauce over the chicken before serving.
18Serve immediately and enjoy.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Oven
Measuring spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 5g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 45g

📝Notes

Tips: You can adjust the seasoning to your taste. You can also add vegetables to the baking sheet for a complete meal.

Baked chicken is always a go-to dish for me. It is versatile, delicious, and healthy.

I can make it for a busy weeknight or a special family gathering. It’s a recipe that I know will be enjoyed by everyone.

It pairs well with a variety of sides and can be easily customized to suit different tastes. It’s a dish that I can make ahead of time and reheat later, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

I often double the recipe and have leftovers for lunches or quick dinners. It is a dish that is always a good idea for any occasion.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Basic Baked Chicken

Q: What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?

You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe.

Q: How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Make sure not to overcook the chicken – use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Q: Can I add other seasonings or spices to this recipe?

Yes, feel free to get creative with your seasonings – some popular options include garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary.

Q: How do I store leftover baked chicken?

Store leftover baked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I reheat baked chicken in the microwave?

No, it’s best to reheat baked chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

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