Imagine walking into your kitchen and being greeted by the irresistible aroma of oven baked chicken, golden brown and sizzling with flavor. The skin is crispy, the meat tender and juicy, and you can almost hear your taste buds singing in anticipation. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, this dish is a surefire crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress.
It takes me back to those chilly Sunday afternoons when my family gathered around the table, eagerly waiting for my mom’s famous oven baked chicken to emerge from the oven. Each bite was a burst of savory goodness that brought smiles all around. Now, I’m excited to share this beloved recipe with you – perfect for any occasion where comfort food is in high demand!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This oven baked chicken is incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
- With its rich flavors and mouthwatering aroma, this dish will impress your family or guests every time
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any dinner table
- It’s versatile enough to be paired with various sides, from roasted veggies to fluffy rice
Cooking this dish has always been a hit at my gatherings; friends can’t get enough of it!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I use about 3-4 breasts, but adjust based on how many mouths you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm garlic cloves for maximum flavor; nothing beats fresh!
Olive Oil: A splash of good quality olive oil enhances the flavors beautifully.
Paprika: Use smoked paprika for a delightful depth that makes your taste buds dance.
Dried Oregano: Oregano adds an aromatic touch that pairs perfectly with chicken.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every dish; don’t skip them!
Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon brightens the flavors and keeps the chicken moist.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, grab a baking dish and coat it lightly with nonstick spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and lemon juice to create a marinade. Coat each chicken breast generously in this flavorful mixture.
Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in your prepared baking dish. Ensure they’re spaced out nicely so they can bake evenly – no one likes soggy chicken!
Bake Until Perfectly Golden: Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden brown.
Let it Rest Before Serving: Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for about five minutes before slicing. This allows all those juicy flavors to settle in – trust me; you’ll thank me later!
Enjoy serving this delicious oven baked chicken alongside your favorite sides like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete meal!
As you take that first bite of succulent chicken bursting with flavor, remember: cooking doesn’t have to be hard! With just a few simple ingredients and some love poured into each step, you’ve created something special that everyone will adore. Happy cooking!
You Must Know
- This oven baked chicken recipe is a great way to impress your friends and family
- The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking for seconds
- Plus, it’s easy to customize based on what you have in the pantry, making it both versatile and delicious
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken for at least an hour. Preheat your oven to 400°F while you prepare vegetables to roast alongside the chicken, ensuring everything cooks evenly and flavors meld beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to switch up the spices! Lemon zest or smoked paprika can add a unique twist, while fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme will elevate the dish’s aroma and taste beautifully.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover oven baked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, keeping it juicy and flavorful.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use a meat thermometer to check doneness; chicken should reach 165°F internally
- Letting the chicken rest after baking ensures juiciness, so don’t skip this step!
- For extra crispiness, broil for the last few minutes of cooking
Sometimes I forget how much my friends love this dish until I serve it at gatherings. Their faces light up as they take that first bite, making all my efforts worth it!
FAQ
How long should I bake my oven baked chicken?
Bake your chicken for 25-30 minutes at 400°F for optimal tenderness.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
It’s best to thaw frozen chicken fully before marinating and baking for even cooking.
What sides pair well with oven baked chicken?
Roasted vegetables or a fresh salad complement the flavors of oven baked chicken perfectly.
Oven-Baked Chicken
Oven-baked chicken is a delightful dish that brings together crispy skin and juicy meat, making it a perfect choice for any gathering. With just a handful of ingredients, this easy recipe delivers rich flavors and an inviting aroma that will impress your family and friends. Whether served with roasted vegetables or fluffy rice, this comforting meal is sure to become a favorite in your home.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick spray or olive oil.
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well.
- Generously coat each chicken breast in the marinade and arrange them in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is golden brown.
- Allow the chicken to rest for about five minutes before slicing and serving with your favorite sides.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 6 oz)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 41g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
