Are you looking for a dinner winner? You have come to the right place. Finding reliable Baked Chicken Recipes can transform your weeknight meal rotation. We all need that one go to dish that is savory, simple, and satisfying.
This lemon herb chicken is exactly that. It is bursting with fresh citrus flavor. The garlic adds a punch that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it uses affordable ingredients you likely have in your pantry right now.
Many home cooks struggle with dry meat. This recipe solves that problem completely. The marinade ensures every bite is juicy and tender. It is one of those Simple Chicken Recipes that tastes like it took hours to prepare.
You do not need fancy tools. You do not need professional skills. All you need is a baking dish and an appetite. Let us dive into one of the tastiest Baked Chicken Recipes you will ever make.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You are going to fall in love with this dish. First of all, the flavor profile is incredible. The mix of oregano, thyme, and Dijon mustard creates a savory crust that is hard to resist.
It is also incredibly versatile. You can serve it with roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. It fits perfectly into a menu of Chicken Breast Recipes Healthy options if you decide to swap the cut of meat.
Another reason to love this is the cleanup. Since it is baked in one dish, you are not left with a sink full of dirty pots. We love Easy Baked Chicken dinners that respect our time.
This recipe is budget friendly too. Chicken thighs are often cheaper than other cuts. They are also more forgiving in the oven. This makes it perfect for beginners who want great results without stress.
Ingredients
Gather these simple items to get started. You might already have most of them in your kitchen.
- 8 bone in chicken thighs
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
These ingredients come together to form a powerful marinade. The acid from the lemon juice tenderizes the meat. The oil carries the herb flavors deep into the chicken.
Step By Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps for the perfect meal. Cooking one of the best Baked Chicken Recipes is easier than you think.
Step 1: Make The Marinade
Grab a small bowl. You will want to combine your liquid and dry ingredients here. Pour in the olive oil and lemon juice first.
Add the minced garlic next. Fresh garlic is best for this. Then, stir in the oregano, thyme, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk it all together until it looks consistent.
Step 2: Marinate The Chicken
Place your chicken thighs into a large bowl. You can also use a large zip top bag if you prefer easy cleanup. Pour the marinade over the chicken.
Make sure every piece is coated well. Let it sit in the fridge for 1 to 2 hours. You can leave it for up to 8 hours if you want deeper flavor.
Step 3: Prepare For Baking
When you are ready to cook, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Taking the chill off the chicken for a few minutes on the counter can help it cook evenly.
Arrange the chicken pieces in a baking dish. Do not crowd them too much. Pour any remaining marinade from the bowl over the top of the chicken.
Step 4: Bake To Perfection
Place the dish in the oven. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You want the chicken to be fully cooked through.
Use an instant read thermometer to check. It should register 175°F (80°C). This ensures the meat is safe and tender.
Step 5: Broil And Serve
This is an optional step for crispy skin lovers. Turn on your oven broiler for the last 2 to 3 minutes. Watch it closely so it does not burn.
Once the skin is golden and crisp, remove it from the oven. If you are hosting a dinner party, garnish with fresh lemon slices. Serve hot and enjoy.
How To Store Leftovers
Storing leftovers correctly keeps your dinner tasting fresh. Allow the chicken to cool down completely before putting it away.
Place the meat in an airtight container. It will stay good in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. This makes it a great option for meal prep lunches.
You can also freeze the cooked chicken. Wrap it tightly or use a freezer safe bag. It lasts for up to 3 months in the freezer.
To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at a low temperature. This helps keep the skin from getting soggy. Microwaving works too but might soften the texture.
Tips
Here are some tricks to elevate your Baked Chicken Recipes. These small details make a huge difference in the final result.
Pat the chicken dry before adding the marinade. This removes excess moisture. It helps the skin crisp up better in the oven later.
Do not skip the marinating time. Even 30 minutes is better than nothing. The acid needs time to work its magic on the meat fibers.
Use a meat thermometer. It is the only way to be sure. Guessing can lead to dry or undercooked meat.
Baste the chicken halfway through. Spoon the juices from the bottom of the pan over the meat. This keeps the top moist and flavorful.
Let the meat rest. After taking it out of the oven, wait 5 minutes before cutting. This lets the juices redistribute inside the meat.
Conclusion
There you have it. You now know how to make one of the most flavorful Baked Chicken Recipes out there. It is simple, fast, and totally delicious.
This dish proves that good food does not have to be complicated. With just a few herbs and some lemon, you can create a masterpiece. It is perfect for anyone wanting Easy Baked Chicken without the fuss.
Give this recipe a try this week. Your family will thank you. Do not forget to save this page for the next time you need a reliable dinner idea.
FAQ
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead?
Yes, you can. Many people look for Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Recipes for a leaner option. If you use breasts, reduce the cooking time to about 20 or 25 minutes. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Is This Recipe Healthy?
Absolutely. This dish uses fresh ingredients and healthy fats like olive oil. It fits well into a plan for Chicken Breast Recipes Healthy eating. It is low in carbs and high in protein.
Can I Add Vegetables?
Sure. You can turn this into a one pan meal. Add potatoes, carrots, or bell peppers to the baking dish. They will roast beautifully alongside the chicken.
Do I Need To Wash The Chicken?
No, you should not wash raw chicken. Washing it can spread bacteria around your sink and kitchen. The heat from the oven will kill any bacteria on the meat.
What If I Do Not Have Fresh Garlic?
Fresh garlic is best for flavor. However, you can use garlic powder in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon of powder to replace the 4 cloves.
Easy Lemon Herb Baked Chicken Thighs
This Lemon Herb Baked Chicken is the perfect weeknight dinner! It’s savory, simple, and bursting with fresh citrus and garlic flavor. The easy marinade ensures every bite is juicy and tender, and cleanup is a breeze.
Requirements
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Place chicken thighs in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 1-2 hours, or up to 8 hours for deeper flavor.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Arrange the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer in a baking dish.
- Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Use an instant read thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 175°F (80°C).
- For crispier skin, turn on the oven broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh lemon slices if desired.
Notes
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before adding the marinade. This helps the skin crisp up better in the oven.
Don’t skip the marinating time! Even 30 minutes allows the acid from the lemon juice to begin tenderizing the meat.
Baste the chicken halfway through the baking time by spooning the pan juices over the top to keep it extra moist and flavorful.
Always let the meat rest for about 5 minutes after taking it out of the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender bite.
Nutrition
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