- Olive Oil: For Marination & Drizzling (2 tablespoons)
- Lemon Zest: To Add a Tangy Twist (1 teaspoon)
- Garlic Cloves: Minced, for Flavor Enhancement (3 cloves)
- Fresh Rosemary: Dried or Fresh, for Herb Infusion (1 tablespoon / 2 teaspoons)
- Salt: For Seasoning (1 teaspoon)
- Black Pepper: To Enhance Flavor (1/2 teaspoon)
- Thyme Leaves: For Additional Herbs (1 tablespoon)
- Paprika: Adds Color and Smokiness (1 teaspoon)
- Onion, Sliced: For Depth of Flavor (1 small onion)
- Optional: Honey or Maple Syrup for a Sweet Glaze (2 teaspoons)
Note: This list includes SEO-friendly keywords such as "oven-baked chicken," "lemon zest," "garlic cloves," and "fresh rosemary" to improve visibility in search engine results.
Advertisement
Steps
### Best Oven-Baked Chicken Recipe: A Flavorful Meal for Any Day
#### Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt (1 teaspoon)
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon)
- Paprika (1 teaspoon)
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon)
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
#### Equipment:
- Baking tray
- Aluminum foil
- Measuring spoons
#### Steps:
1. **Preheat the Oven**
- Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (205°C). This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and reaches a perfect temperature.
2. **Prepare the Chicken**
- Lay out your chicken breasts on a clean kitchen surface.
- Using a fine grater or microplane, lightly sprinkle paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper over each piece of chicken for flavor.
3. **Apply Olive Oil**
- Brush both sides of each chicken breast with olive oil. This step is crucial as it helps the seasonings adhere to the meat and prevents the chicken from sticking during baking.
4. **Line Baking Tray**
- Place a layer of aluminum foil on your baking tray. This makes cleanup easier and ensures even heat distribution.
5. **Arrange Chicken Breasts**
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the baking tray, making sure they are not touching. Leave some space between each breast to allow for even cooking.
6. **Bake in the Oven**
- Put the tray into the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature accurately.
- For extra flavor, you can add sliced lemons or rosemary sprigs directly on top of the chicken during baking.
7. **Let It Rest**
- Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it juicier.
8. **Serve**
- Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
- Serve immediately while hot.
#### Tips for Perfect Results:
- Ensure the chicken is at room temperature before baking to promote even cooking.
- For added moisture and flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in olive oil mixed with your preferred seasonings overnight before baking.
#### Conclusion
By following these detailed steps, you can create a delicious oven-baked chicken dish that is both simple and satisfying. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impressive family dinners. Remember to experiment with different herbs and spices to find your favorite flavor combinations!