Baked chicken is a classic dish loved by many for its crispy outer layer and juicy, tender inside. Whether you are preparing a simple weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, this recipe delivers mouthwatering flavors with minimal effort. The secret lies in the perfect balance of seasoning, marination, and baking time, ensuring every bite is bursting with deliciousness. Unlike fried chicken, baking requires less oil, making it a healthier option while still retaining an irresistible taste. Follow this step-by-step guide to achieve the best-baked chicken that is sure to impress everyone at the dining table.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey (for caramelization)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- Prepare the Marinade
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, melted butter, Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic.
- Stir well until all ingredients are well combined.
- Season the Chicken
- Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- In another bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Rub this dry seasoning mix generously over the chicken pieces.
- Coat the Chicken with Marinade
- Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken.
- Massage the chicken gently to ensure even coating.
- Let it sit for at least 20 minutes for deeper flavor infusion (or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for best results).
- Arrange on Baking Tray
- Place the seasoned chicken pieces skin-side up on the prepared baking tray.
- Ensure they are evenly spaced to allow even cooking.
- Bake the Chicken
- Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes.
- Halfway through, baste the chicken with pan juices for extra moisture and flavor.
- Check doneness using a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Broil for Crispy Skin (Optional)
- If you prefer extra crispiness, switch the oven to broil mode for the last 3-5 minutes.
- Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
- Rest and Serve
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- This helps retain juices and ensures maximum tenderness.
- Serve hot with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Pro Tips for Perfect Baked Chicken
- Use bone-in chicken for juicier results – The bones help retain moisture, preventing dryness.
- Marinate longer for richer flavors – Allowing the chicken to sit in the seasoning enhances taste.
- Don’t skip the basting step – Spoon the pan juices over the chicken midway for added moisture.
- Let the chicken rest before serving – This prevents the juices from running out and keeps the meat succulent.
Baked chicken is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that fits any occasion. With the right blend of seasoning and proper baking techniques, you can achieve a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home. Enjoy your perfectly baked chicken with your favorite sides and savor the delightful taste in every bite!