This oven baked herb chicken is a simple and flavorful dish that is perfect for weeknight dinners. Juicy chicken pieces are seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, then baked to perfection in the oven.
The recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal preparation, making it a great option for busy cooks. You can serve it with a variety of sides like roasted vegetables or rice.
Creating the Perfect Oven Baked Chicken
Oven baked chicken thighs are a delightful dish that can elevate any dinner table. The combination of crispy golden skin and juicy meat makes this recipe a favorite among many.
To achieve that perfect texture, it’s essential to start with quality chicken. Bone-in, skin-on thighs are recommended for their flavor and moisture retention during cooking.
Seasoning is key. A blend of garlic, rosemary, thyme, and paprika enhances the natural flavors of the chicken, creating a mouthwatering experience with every bite.
Preparation Steps for Success
Preparation is straightforward, making this dish accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Next, pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure the skin crisps up nicely in the oven.
Drizzle olive oil over the chicken, then sprinkle your chosen herbs and spices. Toss everything together to ensure each piece is evenly coated.
Arranging for Optimal Cooking
Once seasoned, arrange the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This allows for even cooking and helps achieve that desirable golden brown skin.
It’s important to give each piece enough space; overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than roasting, which affects the texture.
Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, monitoring the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
Serving Suggestions
After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.
Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Pair the chicken with roasted vegetables for a complete meal. The warmth and rustic presentation create an inviting atmosphere that is perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Creating a Warm Dinner Scene
Presentation plays a significant role in the dining experience. Serve the chicken on a rustic wooden cutting board, surrounded by sprigs of rosemary and thyme.
This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds an aromatic element to the meal.
Consider adding a side of roasted vegetables, which can complement the flavors of the chicken while providing a colorful contrast on the plate.
Nutrition and Enjoyment
This oven baked chicken is not only delicious but also nutritious. Each serving provides a good balance of protein and healthy fats, making it a satisfying main dish.
With approximately 320 calories per serving, it fits well into a balanced diet.
Enjoying this dish is about more than just the food; it’s about the experience of sharing a meal with loved ones, creating memories around the dinner table.
Easy Oven Baked Chicken Recipe
This oven baked chicken features tender pieces of chicken seasoned with garlic, rosemary, thyme, and paprika. The dish takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs or breasts, bone-in and skin-on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and place it in a large bowl.
- Season the Chicken: Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, rosemary, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the chicken evenly.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer in a baking dish or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 4 pieces
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 1g