Juicy Oven-Baked Chicken

Craving a deliciously juicy chicken dinner with minimal fuss? This Juicy Oven-Baked Chicken is perfectly seasoned and baked to golden perfection, making it a go-to for easy weeknight meals!

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or breasts)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Fresh lemon wedges (for serving, optional)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.

Mix the Seasoning:

2. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried rosemary, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).

Season the Chicken:

3. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well-coated.

Bake the Chicken:

4. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown.

Serve:

5. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges if desired. Serve with your favorite sides for a complete meal!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings (1 thigh per serving)

Variations

• Different Cuts: Use bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts if you prefer a different cut.
• Spicy Kick: Increase the cayenne pepper for a spicier version.
• Herb Mix: Experiment with different herbs such as sage or parsley for unique flavor profiles.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, to maintain crispiness. You can also use a microwave, but the skin may not stay as crispy.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken?
   Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but adjust the cooking time accordingly as it will cook faster.
2. What if I don’t have all the spices?
   You can substitute with other spices you have on hand or use a pre-made chicken seasoning blend.
3. Can I cook this chicken on a grill?
   Yes, you can grill the chicken, but cooking time may vary. Grill over medium heat until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Is it necessary to pat the chicken dry?
   Yes, drying the chicken helps to achieve a crispy skin by removing excess moisture.
5. Can I brine the chicken beforehand?
   Brining is a great way to ensure juiciness. Soak in a solution of water and salt for 30 minutes before seasoning.
6. Can I make this recipe in advance?
   You can season the chicken and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
7. How can I make the chicken skin even crispier?
   Ensure the chicken is patted dry and bake on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to allow air circulation around the chicken.
8. What sides go well with this chicken?
   Roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or mashed potatoes are great side dishes.
9. Can I freeze the chicken?
   Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to maintain texture.
10. How do I check if the chicken is fully cooked?
    Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Conclusion

This Juicy Oven-Baked Chicken offers a delightful combination of savory spices and crispy skin, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With minimal preparation and cooking time, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or a comforting family dinner. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful dish with your favorite sides for a complete meal.

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