Baked chicken is a delicious and versatile dish that can be prepared in various ways. Here’s a simple recipe for basic baked chicken:
Ingredients:
- Chicken pieces (such as drumsticks, thighs, or breasts)
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Dried herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Chicken: Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere better.
- Season the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a baking dish. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken, ensuring each piece is lightly coated. Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and your choice of dried herbs evenly over the chicken. You can adjust the seasonings based on your taste preferences.
- Massage the Seasonings: Use your hands to rub the seasonings onto the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Arrange in the Baking Dish: Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer in the baking dish, ensuring they are not too crowded. This helps the chicken cook evenly.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-45 minutes, depending on the size and type of chicken pieces. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken is cooked through. The juices should run clear, and there should be no pink in the center.
- Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
Feel free to customize the seasonings and herbs based on your preferences. You can also add vegetables to the baking dish for a complete one-pan meal. Enjoy your baked chicken!
