baked chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs or breasts (bone-in or boneless)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme, optional)
- Lemon slices (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the skin get crispy.
- Season the Chicken:
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, making sure to coat it well.
- Bake the Chicken:
- Place the seasoned chicken in a baking dish or on a baking sheet. If using fresh herbs, you can scatter them around the chicken. Add lemon slices on top or around the chicken if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear. The cooking time may vary based on the size of the chicken pieces.
- Rest and Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy.
- Serve with your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables, rice, or a salad.
Tips:
- You can marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight for even more flavor.
- Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to the seasoning mix for a personal touch.
Enjoy your delicious baked chicken!
