Baked Chicken: A Simple and Delicious Recipe

Baked chicken is a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking with just a few ingredients. Whether you prefer it plain and simple or loaded with flavorful spices and seasonings, learning how to make baked chicken is an essential cooking skill that every home cook should master. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also a healthier alternative to fried chicken.

To begin, start by choosing your preferred cut of chicken such as breasts, thighs, or drumsticks. Then, season the chicken with your favorite spices such as garlic powder, paprika, and thyme. Next, place the chicken in a baking dish and pop it in the oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the skin is crispy and golden brown. Serve alongside your favorite sides such as roasted veggies or mashed potatoes for a simple and satisfying meal. With these simple steps, you’ll be on your way to making delicious baked chicken in no time!

How to Make Baked Chicken – A Step-by-Step Guide

Baked chicken is a classic meal that is easy to make and always delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you’ll find that learning how to make baked chicken is a skill that you’ll use time and time again. In this guide, we’ll take you through the steps to make juicy, tender, and flavorful baked chicken that your whole family will love.

1. Choose the Right Chicken

The first step to making perfect baked chicken is choosing the right chicken. Look for a whole chicken or chicken parts that are fresh and have a good amount of fat. For the best flavor and texture, consider using organic or free-range chicken.

2. Prepare the Chicken

Before you bake the chicken, you’ll need to prepare it. If you’re using a whole chicken, remove any giblets and excess fat, and rinse the chicken inside and out. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. If you’re using chicken parts, rinse the parts and pat them dry.

3. Season the Chicken

The key to flavorful baked chicken is using the right seasoning. You can keep it simple with salt and pepper, or get creative with a spice rub or marinade. Whatever you choose, be sure to season the chicken on all sides and under the skin, if possible.

4. Choose a Baking Dish

When it comes to baking chicken, the right dish can make all the difference. A roasting pan or a baking dish with high sides will help keep the chicken moist and prevent the juices from spilling over.

5. Add Flavors

To add extra flavor to your baked chicken, consider adding vegetables and herbs to the baking dish. Onions, garlic, carrots, and potatoes are all great options. The herbs can be fresh or dried and can include rosemary, thyme, oregano, or sage.

6. Bake at the Right Temperature

The key to tender and juicy baked chicken is cooking it at the right temperature. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This should take about 1 hour for a whole chicken and 30-45 minutes for chicken parts.

7. Use a Meat Thermometer

To make sure your chicken is cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken without touching the bone. When the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), your chicken is ready.

8. Rest the Chicken

Once your chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and ensure that your chicken is as flavorful and juicy as possible.

9. Carve and Serve

To carve your chicken, use a sharp knife and cut it into the desired pieces. Arrange the chicken on a platter and serve with your favorite sides.

10. Store Leftovers

If you have leftover baked chicken, allow it to cool to room temperature and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Baked chicken can last for up to four days in the fridge and can be used in salads, sandwiches, and other dishes.

Tips for Buying and Preparing Chicken

Baked chicken is a delicious, healthy meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s important to know how to choose the right chicken and how to prepare it properly. Here are some tips to help you buy and prepare the best chicken for your baked chicken recipe.

1. Choose the Right Cut of Chicken

When it comes to baking chicken, you can use any cut you want. However, some cuts will cook faster than others, so it’s important to choose the right one for your recipe. Chicken breasts are the leanest option, but they can become dry if overcooked. Thighs and drumsticks are more flavorful and less likely to dry out, but they are higher in fat. Wings are perfect for appetizers and can be cooked quickly.

2. Look for Fresh Chicken

When buying chicken, it’s important to look for fresh meat. Check the packaging for a sell-by or use-by date, and make sure the chicken is not past its expiration date. Fresh chicken should be firm and pink, with no signs of discoloration or sliminess. Avoid any chicken with a strong odor.

3. Buy Organic or Free-Range Chicken

Organic or free-range chicken is raised without hormones or antibiotics and is fed a natural diet. This results in a healthier chicken that is leaner and more flavorful than conventionally-raised chicken. While it may be more expensive, the quality and taste are worth it.

4. Trim Excess Fat

Before cooking your chicken, it’s important to trim off any excess fat. This not only makes for a healthier meal, but it also helps to prevent flare-ups in the oven. Use a sharp knife to remove any visible fat from the chicken.

5. Season the Chicken

To enhance the flavor of your baked chicken, it’s important to season it properly. You can use any combination of herbs and spices you like, but some common options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and thyme. Rub the seasonings onto the chicken, making sure to coat it evenly.

6. Use a Meat Thermometer

To ensure your chicken is cooked thoroughly, it’s important to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken, making sure not to touch the bone. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

7. Let the Chicken Rest

After you’ve taken the chicken out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes before cutting into it. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a juicy, flavorful chicken.

8. Save the Leftovers

Baked chicken is a great meal to make ahead of time and save for leftovers. Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave for a quick and easy meal.

9. Experiment with Different Recipes

There are countless ways to make baked chicken, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different recipes. Try adding different spices or sauces, or stuffing the chicken with herbs and vegetables. The possibilities are endless!

10. Enjoy!

At the end of the day, the most important thing is to enjoy your meal. Baked chicken is a tasty, healthy option that can be enjoyed by the whole family. So sit down, relax, and savor every bite.

Preparing the Chicken

Now that you have gathered all the required ingredients, it’s time to prepare the star of the dish – the chicken.

Clean the Chicken

Before you begin, always remember to wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Rinse the chicken thoroughly with cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Get rid of any giblets or organs that might be inside the cavity of the chicken. Trim the excess skin and fat from the chicken. Cut the chicken into small pieces so that it cooks evenly.

Season the Chicken

Seasoning is crucial when it comes to making baked chicken. You want to infuse as much flavor into the chicken as possible. To do this, you can use a store-bought seasoning mix or make your own using herbs and spices. The most popular spices used to season chicken are garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chili powder, oregano, thyme, and salt. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken pieces, ensuring that each piece is well coated. Cover the seasoned chicken with plastic wrap and set aside for at least 30 minutes to marinate.

Add Marinade for Extra Flavors

Another way to add flavor to the chicken is by using a marinade. A marinade is a liquid mixture of oil, vinegar, spices, and herbs that you soak the chicken in before baking. It helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavors. You can make a simple marinade using olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Place the seasoned chicken pieces in the marinade, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for maximum flavor.

Coat the Chicken with Bread Crumbs

If you prefer a crispy texture, you can coat the chicken with bread crumbs before baking. Bread crumbs not only add texture but also make the chicken more flavorful. You can use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs depending on your preference. Dip each seasoned chicken piece into a beaten egg mixture, coat it with breadcrumbs, and place it on a greased baking sheet.

Bake the Chicken

Once you have prepared the chicken, it’s time to bake it. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the chicken for 45-50 minutes or until it’s fully cooked. Remember to turn the chicken pieces occasionally for even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Congratulations, you have successfully prepared your very own delicious baked chicken that is sure to impress your friends and family. Serve it hot with a side of vegetables or salad for a complete meal.

Thanks for stopping by, hope to see you soon!

I had a lot of fun showing you how to make baked chicken and I hope you enjoyed following along. Cooking can be such a joyful experience and I am so grateful to be able to share it with you. Don’t hesitate to try out new recipes and experiment with different flavors. Until next time, happy cooking!