Oven Baked Chicken

Welcome to SousVideRecipe! I’m Jasmine, a home cook who fell in love with sous vide the moment I realized it could turn everyday meals into restaurant-quality dishes with perfect consistency. My goal is to make sous vide cooking approachable and fun for real home kitchens — no complicated steps, just flavorful, reliable recipes anyone can master. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, I’m here to inspire you to enjoy cooking and create unforgettable meals one perfectly cooked bite at a time.

Oven baked chicken has become a staple in my kitchen. The ease of preparation and the delightful flavors make it an ideal dish for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. I vividly remember my first attempt at oven baked chicken. The aroma filled my kitchen and soon captivated my family. That moment solidified my love for this dish.

The blend of spices combines wonderfully with juicy chicken breasts, creating a satisfying dining experience. You need only a few simple ingredients to achieve a dish worthy of any dinner table. Each bite delivers warmth and fond memories, making it a go-to recipe for gatherings and family dinners.

Whether you want to impress guests or simply enjoy a weeknight meal, this oven baked chicken recipe provides a reliable solution. With clear steps and a short prep time, anyone can master it. Let’s look deeper into the fundamentals of making perfectly oven baked chicken.

Oven Baked Chicken Fundamentals

Preparation/setup

Prepping your ingredients can save a lot of time. Start by gathering your ingredients: boneless, skinless chicken breasts, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and lemon juice. This will help streamline your cooking process.

Next, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A properly preheated oven ensures even cooking, so you don’t end up with unevenly baked chicken breasts. Spray your baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or lightly coat it with olive oil. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!

Ingredients

For this oven baked chicken, you will need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Directions

Now, let’s get to the exciting part—cooking! In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, and lemon juice. This mixture will infuse your chicken with flavor. Rub this seasoning mix evenly over each chicken breast, ensuring they are coated well.

After seasoning the chicken, drizzle the olive oil on top. This step adds moisture and enhances the overall taste of the dish. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on the chicken, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Perfecting Oven Baked Chicken Technique

Technique

Understanding the technique behind oven baked chicken can improve your cooking drastically. The key lies in the combination of spices and the temperature at which you cook the chicken. High heat allows the chicken to cook quickly while locking in moisture.

Consider using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It’s one of the best tools in your kitchen for ensuring perfect results every time. If you don’t have one, cut into the chicken to check that the juices run clear; any pinkness indicates that the chicken needs a bit more time.

Tips/tricks

Here are some tricks to elevate your oven baked chicken to a new level. First, let your chicken sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cooking. This helps prevent the chicken from becoming tough and ensures even cooking.

Experiment with different spices and seasonings to suit your taste. Adding fresh herbs or a pinch of cayenne pepper can provide an exciting twist to the traditional flavor profile. You can also marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight for even deeper flavors.

Troubleshooting and Variations

Perfecting results

Even seasoned cooks may encounter challenges. If your chicken breasts turn out dry, try reducing the cooking time. Remember, every oven is unique, and factors like the size of chicken breasts can influence cooking time. Trust your instincts—if the chicken looks golden brown and smells delightful, it’s likely ready!

If you want a crispier texture, consider finishing the chicken under the broiler for a couple of minutes. Just keep a close eye to prevent burning. Remember to allow it to rest after cooking; this step is crucial for moisture retention.

Troubleshooting/variations

Should you find yourself with leftover chicken, don’t fret! Oven baked chicken is versatile and can be used in various dishes. Add it to salads, incorporate it into pasta dishes, or create delicious tacos.

If you’re looking for a low-carb option, try serving the oven baked chicken over a bed of sautéed vegetables instead of rice or pasta. This provides a satisfying meal while keeping your carb count low.

Serving and Storage

Serving/presentation

Serving your oven baked chicken can be as simple or elaborate as you choose. A simple platter with fresh herbs can instantly elevate the presentation. Pair it with steamed broccoli or a crisp garden salad for a complete meal.

Consider adding a drizzle of additional olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving. This extra touch can enhance the flavors and make the dish even more inviting.

Pairings/storage

When it comes to storing your leftovers, let the chicken cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to reheat it gently to avoid drying out the meat.

Though it’s important to avoid unnecessary pairings, serving oven baked chicken with a variety of side dishes can cater to everyone’s preferences. Think about roasted vegetables, quinoa, or even a light coleslaw. All of these options can complement your meal nicely without any issues.

For meal prep enthusiasts, consider using this oven baked chicken as part of your weekly meal prep. Its versatility ensures that whether it’s a quick lunch addition or part of a fancy dinner, it’ll shine in every way.

Oven baked chicken represents a seamless fusion of simplicity and flavor. With a few basic ingredients and straightforward procedures, you can create a mouthwatering dish that satisfies your palate. The ease and dependability of this recipe make it a must-have in every home cook’s repertoire.

Simple yet flavorful, oven baked chicken not only caters to taste but also to convenience. Whether you’re serving it to guests or enjoying a cozy meal at home, it promises to impress every time.

This versatile dish holds a special place in the hearts and kitchens of home cooks everywhere. So, roll up your sleeves and embark on this culinary adventure of oven baked chicken today.

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