Description
Succulent oven-baked chicken delights dinner tables with Mediterranean-inspired herbs and garlic. Crispy golden skin and tender meat promise a delectable meal that will satisfy hunger and spark culinary joy for you.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or breasts)
Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Cooking Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the culinary workspace by heating the oven to a sizzling 425F (220C), creating an ideal environment for roasting succulent chicken.
- Thoroughly blot chicken pieces with absorbent towels, eliminating excess moisture to guarantee a perfectly crisp exterior.
- Arrange chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring each piece has sufficient space for even heat circulation.
- Craft a robust seasoning blend by whisking together olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne for a flavor-packed experience.
- Massage the aromatic seasoning mixture meticulously across every chicken surface, creating a uniform and generous coating that promises exceptional taste.
- Position the seasoned chicken in the preheated oven, allowing it to transform for 35-40 minutes until the internal temperature reaches a safe 165F (74C) and the skin develops a golden, crispy armor.
- Remove from the oven and permit the chicken to rest momentarily, allowing juices to redistribute and ensure maximum tenderness.
- Enhance the presentation with fresh lemon wedges, offering a bright, citrusy complement to the rich, herb-infused chicken.
Notes
- Choose bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts for maximum juiciness and flavor retention during baking.
- Use a meat thermometer to accurately check internal temperature, preventing dry or undercooked chicken.
- Pat chicken completely dry before seasoning to help achieve crispy, golden-brown skin that seals in moisture.
- Customize spice blend by adjusting herbs and spices based on personal taste preferences or dietary restrictions.
- Experiment with alternative seasonings like smoked paprika, herbs de Provence, or za’atar for international flavor variations.
- Allow chicken to rest after baking to help redistribute juices, ensuring each bite remains tender and succulent.
- For low-carb or keto diets, skip adding sugary marinades and focus on robust, natural herb combinations.
- Swap olive oil with avocado oil for higher smoke point and additional health benefits if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg