Best Baked Chicken Recipe: Baked chicken is a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any meal.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, baked chicken is a go-to option because it’s flavorful, tender, and requires minimal effort. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to frying since it uses less oil while still maintaining juicy, rich flavors.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best baked chicken recipe step by step so you can achieve perfectly seasoned, mouthwatering chicken every time.
Ingredients Needed
To make the best-baked chicken, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that enhance its natural flavors:
Essential Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme or oregano
- Juice of ½ a lemon
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor:
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (for a caramelized finish)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (for a deeper umami taste)
- Fresh rosemary or parsley for garnishing
- 2 cloves minced garlic for extra aroma
Choosing the Right Chicken
The type of chicken you use plays a significant role in how the final dish turns out.
Bone-in vs. Boneless:
- Bone-in chicken stays juicier and has more flavor, but takes longer to cook.
- Boneless chicken cooks faster and is easier to eat, but can dry out quickly if overcooked.
Skin-on vs. Skinless:
- Skin-on chicken develops a crispy texture and adds more flavor.
- Skinless chicken is leaner but can be less moist.
Best Cuts for Baking:
- Chicken thighs: More flavorful and juicy
- Chicken breasts: Lean and tender, but require careful cooking
- Drumsticks: Fun to eat and great for family meals
Preparation Before Baking
A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your chicken turns out moist, flavorful, and perfectly cooked.
1. Cleaning and Trimming:
- Rinse chicken under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- Trim excess fat or unwanted skin pieces.
2. Brining for Extra Juiciness (Optional but Recommended):
- Mix 4 cups of water with ¼ cup of salt and let the chicken soak for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
- Rinse and pat dry before seasoning.
3. Marinating for Deep Flavor:
- Mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and seasonings in a bowl.
- Coat the chicken well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for stronger flavor).
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that your chicken is prepped, it’s time to bake it to perfection!
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Seasoning and Coating:
- Rub the chicken with olive oil or melted butter.
- Generously season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme.
3. Arranging Chicken on a Baking Tray:
- Line a baking tray with parchment paper or foil.
- Arrange chicken pieces skin-side up for crispiness.
- Leave space between pieces for even cooking.
Best Temperature and Baking Time
Different chicken cuts require different baking times.
| Chicken Cut | Temperature | Baking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Bone-in, skin-on thighs | 400°F (200°C) | 35-45 minutes |
| Boneless, skinless breasts | 375°F (190°C) | 20-25 minutes |
| Drumsticks | 400°F (200°C) | 35-40 minutes |
Tips for a Crispy, Golden-Brown Finish
- Brush chicken with extra butter or oil halfway through baking.
- Bake at a higher temperature (425°F) for the last 5 minutes.
- Use the broiler for 2-3 minutes at the end for extra crispiness.
Checking for Doneness
- Use a meat thermometer: Chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Juices should run clear, not pink, when pierced with a fork.
Resting the Chicken Before Serving
- Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting.
- This helps retain the juices and keeps it moist.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your baked chicken with:
- Mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables
- A fresh green salad
- Steamed rice or quinoa
FAQs about Best Baked Chicken Recipe
1. What temperature should I bake chicken at?
For the best results, bake chicken at 375°F (190°C). This temperature allows the chicken to cook thoroughly without drying out, ensuring juicy and flavorful meat.
2. How long should I bake chicken in the oven?
The baking time depends on the size and cut of the chicken. For boneless, skinless chicken breasts, bake for 20-25 minutes. For bone-in pieces like thighs or drumsticks, bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. Do I need to marinate chicken before baking?
While not necessary, marinating chicken can enhance its flavor and tenderness. A simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs can be applied 30 minutes to a few hours before baking.
4. What herbs and spices work well with baked chicken?
Popular choices include rosemary, thyme, oregano, garlic powder, and paprika. Combining these with salt and pepper provides a basic yet delicious seasoning.
5. Should I cover the chicken when baking?
Covering the chicken with foil during the first part of baking helps retain moisture. Remove the foil in the last 10-15 minutes to allow the skin to become crispy.
6. How do I know when the chicken is done baking?
The safest way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The juices should also run clear when you cut into the thickest part of the chicken.
7. Can I bake chicken with vegetables?
Absolutely! Baking chicken with vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions makes for a wholesome and convenient one-pan meal. Just ensure that the vegetables are cut in uniform sizes for even cooking.
8. What should I do with leftover baked chicken?
Leftover baked chicken can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days and is great in salads, sandwiches, or as a protein addition to soups and pastas.
Conclusion
Baking chicken is simple, yet the right techniques make a huge difference in achieving a tender, flavorful dish. With this step-by-step guide, you’re now equipped to make the best-baked chicken every time. Give it a try, and don’t forget to experiment with different seasonings!
