Cooking baked chicken is a straightforward and delicious way to prepare this versatile protein. Here's a simple recipe for baking chicken:
Ingredients:
- Chicken pieces (bone-in or boneless, skin-on or skinless)
- Olive oil or melted butter
- Salt and pepper (or your favorite seasoning blend)
- Optional: Herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano), garlic powder, paprika, or other spices for extra flavor
Instructions:
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Adjust the temperature according to the size and type of chicken pieces you are using.
Prepare the chicken: Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. If you're using bone-in, skin-on chicken, you can score the skin lightly to help the seasoning penetrate better.
Season the chicken: Drizzle a bit of olive oil or melted butter over the chicken pieces, and then season them with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices. Rub the seasoning mixture over the chicken to ensure even coverage.
Arrange on a baking dish: Place the seasoned chicken pieces in a baking dish. For easy cleanup, you can line the dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
Bake the chicken: Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the chicken until it reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The cooking time will vary depending on the size and type of chicken pieces you're using. As a rough guideline, boneless, skinless chicken breasts may take around 20-25 minutes, while bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks can take 35-45 minutes. Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
Optional step for crispy skin: If you're using skin-on chicken and desire crispy skin, you can turn on the broiler for the last few minutes of cooking to crisp up the skin. Be sure to keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
Rest the chicken: Once the chicken reaches the desired internal temperature and is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful chicken.
Serve your baked chicken with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, salad, rice, or mashed potatoes. Baked chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with a wide variety of flavors, making it an excellent option for any meal. Enjoy!