Name: Easy Baked Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 3 pounds bone-in chicken pieces; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons paprika; 1.5 teaspoons garlic powder; 1.5 teaspoons onion powder; 1/8 teaspoon black pepper; 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

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Whenever I think of comfort food, Easy Baked Chicken comes right to mind. There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that brings the family together, and this one does just that. Picture a cozy evening at home, the aroma of spices wafting through the air as the chicken bakes to perfection in the oven. I usually whip this up when I want a no-fuss meal that still feels special. It’s a recipe that delivers on flavor without demanding too much of your time or energy. Everyone loves the crispy skin and tender meat, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners or even special occasions.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
35 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
300 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Food Processor, Baking Sheet, Oven, Blender

Why This Easy Baked Chicken Stands Out

It’s Incredibly Simple

What I love most about this Easy Baked Chicken is how straightforward it is. You don’t have to be a professional chef to nail this recipe. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering dish that impresses even the pickiest eaters. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want to put something delicious on the table without spending hours in the kitchen.

Perfectly Juicy Every Time

Cooking chicken can be tricky, but this recipe ensures that your chicken stays juicy and flavorful. The key is in letting it rest after baking, which allows the juices to redistribute. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve cut into chicken right away and ended up with a dry piece of meat. With this method, you avoid that pitfall and end up with tender, succulent pieces every time.

Customizable for Everyone

This recipe is incredibly versatile. If you’re looking for a low-FODMAP option, just omit the onion and garlic powder and replace them with herbs like oregano or cumin. You can tailor the spice blend to suit your taste or even the preferences of your guests. Whether you like it spicy or mild, this Easy Baked Chicken can adapt to meet everyone’s needs!

Great for Meal Prep

If you’re someone who likes to meal prep, this recipe is a lifesaver. You can bake a large batch of chicken and use it in various dishes throughout the week. From salads to wraps and even pasta dishes, having cooked chicken on hand makes it easy to eat healthily without too much hassle.

Family-Friendly

Finally, this Easy Baked Chicken is a hit with kids. The crispy skin and savory flavor make it appealing to even the pickiest of eaters. Serve it with some roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes, and you’ve got yourself a meal that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients to Make Easy Baked Chicken

The ingredients for this Easy Baked Chicken are simple but effective. Each component plays a vital role in bringing flavor and moisture to the dish. The star, of course, is the chicken, which becomes supremely tender as it bakes. But the spices and olive oil are no less important, creating a delightful crust that elevates this humble dish to something truly special.

2 to 3 pounds bone-in chicken pieces: Use your favorite parts—thighs, drumsticks, or a whole cut-up chicken all work beautifully for this recipe.
2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil: This helps to keep the chicken moist and adds a rich flavor.
2 teaspoons paprika: Adds a lovely color and a subtle smokiness to the chicken.
1.5 teaspoons garlic powder: Provides a warm, savory note that complements the chicken perfectly.
1.5 teaspoons onion powder: Adds depth and enhances the overall flavor profile.
1/8 teaspoon black pepper: A must-have seasoning for that little kick.
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): If you like heat, this is a great addition!
1/2 teaspoon sea salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.

Making This Easy Baked Chicken

Ready to dive into the deliciousness of Easy Baked Chicken? Let’s get started! This recipe is as simple as mixing a few spices and letting your oven do the work. Make sure to follow each step to achieve the best results.

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. This is crucial for ensuring that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves that perfect golden-brown color.
Lightly oil a casserole dish to prevent sticking. I like to use a paper towel to spread a thin layer of olive oil on the bottom and sides.
In a mixing bowl, stir together your spices: paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and sea salt. This blend packs a flavorful punch!
Place your pieces of chicken in the casserole dish. Don’t overcrowd them; they need space to roast properly.
Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken, making sure to coat each piece thoroughly. Using your hands, rub the oil all over the surface of the chicken for even coverage.
Generously sprinkle the spice blend on both sides of each piece of chicken. This will create a beautiful crust when they bake.
Now, place the casserole dish on the center rack of your preheated oven. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165 degrees F).
If you want crispy skin, switch your oven to broil for the last 3 to 8 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!
Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps distribute juices, making your chicken even more tender.
Finally, serve your Easy Baked Chicken with your favorite sides—this dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Things Worth Knowing

Resting is key: Allowing your chicken to rest after cooking lets the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and tender.
Use a thermometer: Invest in a meat thermometer for perfectly cooked chicken every time. 165 degrees F is your magic number!
Customize your spices: Feel free to adjust the spice blend to match your family’s preferences. Add herbs like rosemary or thyme for a twist.
Check for doneness: If you’re unsure whether the chicken is done, cut into the largest piece; the juices should run clear.

Make It Your Own

One of the best things about the Easy Baked Chicken is its versatility. Here are some tips to make it your own:

Experiment with flavors: Try different spice blends like Italian seasoning or a lemon herb mix to change things up.
Adjust the heat: If you love spice, add more cayenne pepper or even some diced jalapeños to the spice mix.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Freezing: You can freeze cooked chicken; just make sure to wrap it tightly. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Pairing: Serve with mashed potatoes, a fresh green salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Make it a meal prep hero: Prepare a large batch at the beginning of the week for quick lunches and dinners.

How to Serve Easy Baked Chicken

Serving your Easy Baked Chicken is as delightful as preparing it. Here are a few ways to enjoy this meal:

With sides: Pair it with classic sides such as mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting dinner.
On a salad: Slice the chicken on top of mixed greens with your favorite dressing for a light lunch.
In wraps: Use the chicken as a filling in wraps or sandwiches, adding fresh veggies and sauces for extra flavor.
With rice: Serve over a bed of rice, drizzled with a bit of soy sauce or teriyaki for an Asian twist.
For gatherings: This dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks—simply double the recipe to serve a crowd.
Storage tips: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge; they’ll last for up to four days, and reheating in the oven keeps it crispy.

FAQ

You can serve Easy Baked Chicken with a variety of side dishes! I recommend classic mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, or a fresh garden salad. Rice also pairs well, especially if you drizzle some soy sauce or teriyaki on top for an Asian twist. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with roasted vegetables or macaroni and cheese. The versatility of this chicken allows it to complement many different flavors, so feel free to get creative!

To store leftovers of your Easy Baked Chicken, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They should be good for up to four days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the chicken. Just ensure it’s wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven for the best texture!

Absolutely! If you want to add some heat to your Easy Baked Chicken, feel free to increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the spice mix. You can also add a pinch of chili powder or even fresh chopped jalapeños if you love a good kick. Adjusting the spice level is easy, so you can tailor it to your tastes or those of your guests!

Letting your chicken rest for about 10 minutes after taking it out of the oven is essential for achieving the best results. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making each bite more tender and flavorful. If you cut into the chicken too soon, all those delicious juices will run out, leaving you with dry meat. Patience pays off!

Conclusion

This Easy Baked Chicken recipe is special because it combines simple ingredients and straightforward techniques to create a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try it for your next family dinner or casual gathering. You won’t be disappointed with the crispy skin and juicy meat that everyone will love!