Instructions for Making Easy Baked Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and place them in a baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and rub it all over the chicken to coat evenly. Sprinkle the minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-seasoned.
Step 2: Bake the Chicken
Arrange in the Dish: Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish in a single layer. Add lemon slices around the chicken, if using, for extra flavor.
Bake: Put the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The time may vary depending on the size of the chicken breasts.
Rest the Chicken: Remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep the chicken juicy.
Step 3: Serve
Garnish with Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
Enjoy: Serve the baked chicken with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, a salad, or mashed potatoes.
Tips for the Best Baked Chicken
Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (74°C).
Don’t Overcook: Baking too long can dry out the chicken. If you’re using smaller or larger chicken breasts, adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Marinate for Extra Flavor: For an extra burst of flavor, you can marinate the chicken for a few hours before baking. Use a simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs.
Variations to Try
Spicy Baked Chicken: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a little heat.
Honey Garlic Chicken: Drizzle honey and soy sauce over the chicken before baking for a sweet and savory twist.
Cheesy Baked Chicken: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the chicken during the last 5 minutes of baking for a gooey, cheesy finish.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes: Pair with steamed vegetables, a side salad, rice, or pasta for a complete meal.
Sauces: Serve with barbecue sauce, garlic butter sauce, or a creamy mustard sauce for added flavor.
Leftover Ideas: Chop leftover chicken and use it in sandwiches, wraps, salads, or pasta dishes.
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerate: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freeze: Freeze baked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals to avoid drying out the chicken.
Why Baked Chicken Is a Must-Have Recipe
Healthier Than Frying: Baking chicken is a healthier alternative to frying, as it uses less oil while still retaining moisture.
Great for Meal Prep: Baked chicken is ideal for weekly meal prep because it stays juicy and can be used in a variety of dishes.
Easy to Customize: With so many different ways to season and serve baked chicken, you can keep it interesting and never get bored.
Conclusion
This Easy Baked Chicken Recipe delivers on both simplicity and flavor, making it a fantastic go-to for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. With minimal ingredients and effort, you get a delicious dish that pairs well with just about anything. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced home cook, this recipe is a reliable choice to have in your collection. Try it out, and you’ll see why baked chicken remains a favorite for so many!
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