Baked Chicken Recipe

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  • Baking Dish or Roasting Pan
  • Aluminum Foil (optional, for covering if chicken browns too quickly)
  • Meat Thermometer

Preparation Steps:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Adjust the oven rack to the middle position.
  2. Prepare the Chicken:
    • Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps the skin get crispy.
    • Rub each piece with olive oil. This will help the seasoning stick and also aid in crisping the skin.
  3. Season the Chicken:
    • In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried herbs.
    • Season both sides of the chicken pieces generously with the spice mix.
  4. Arrange the Chicken:
    • Place the chicken pieces, skin-side up, in a baking dish or roasting pan. Ensure they are not overcrowded to allow for even cooking and crisping.
    • If using, place lemon slices or wedges and fresh herbs around and under the chicken pieces.
  5. Bake:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat without touching the bone.
    • If the chicken skin starts to brown too much before it’s fully cooked, you can loosely cover it with aluminum foil.
  1. Rest and Serve:
    • Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more moist and flavorful.
    • Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Tips for Perfection:

  • Room Temperature: Let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before baking. This helps it cook more evenly.
  • Skin Side Up: Baking the chicken skin-side up allows the skin to become crispy and golden.
  • Checking Doneness: The safest way to check if the chicken is done is by using a meat thermometer. The USDA recommends an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for chicken.

Serving Suggestions:

Baked chicken is incredibly versatile and can be served with a wide range of sides. Consider pairing it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or steamed rice for a complete meal.

Enjoy your deliciously baked chicken, a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for any day of the week.

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