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| Image by Mouhcine Bahassa from Pixabay |
Delicious Baked Chicken I Make Again and Again
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There’s something incredibly comforting about a simple baked chicken recipe. It’s the kind of meal that feels familiar, nourishing, and dependable—perfect for those nights when you want real food without extra stress. This easy baked chicken recipe is one I make again and again because it delivers juicy, flavorful results with minimal effort.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or just trying to eat healthier without overthinking dinner, this oven-baked chicken fits beautifully into everyday life. It’s simple, versatile, and made with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
Why This Easy Baked Chicken Recipe Always Works
What I love most about baked chicken is how reliable it is. Baking allows the seasoning to soak in while keeping the chicken tender and juicy. Unlike frying, it doesn’t require heavy oils, making it a healthier cooking method that still delivers big flavor.
This recipe is also incredibly forgiving. You don’t need fancy techniques or special skills—just a good baking dish, a few pantry spices, and an oven. Whether you’re new to cooking or just want a no-fail dinner option, this baked chicken recipe is hard to mess up.
Best of all, leftovers taste just as good the next day. I often use extra chicken for salads, wraps, rice bowls, or quick lunches, which makes this recipe perfect for busy weeks.
My Simple and Delicious Baked Chicken Recipe
Ingredients:
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4 bone-in or boneless chicken pieces
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
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Optional: dried herbs like thyme or oregano
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel—this helps the seasoning stick and improves texture.
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Place the chicken in a baking dish or on a lined sheet pan.
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Drizzle olive oil evenly over the chicken.
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In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, pepper, and optional herbs.
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Sprinkle the seasoning generously over both sides of the chicken.
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Bake uncovered for 35–45 minutes, depending on thickness, until golden and fully cooked.
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Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices.
Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Chicken Every Time
Using a sturdy baking dish or sheet pan ensures even cooking and better browning. Letting the chicken rest after baking makes a noticeable difference in juiciness. When I want extra crisp skin, I switch the oven to broil for the last 2–3 minutes—just keep a close eye on it.
This baked chicken pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, rice, quinoa, or a fresh side salad. It’s an easy foundation for balanced meals all week long.
Why Baked Chicken Fits a Healthy Lifestyle
Baked chicken is naturally high in protein, filling, and easy to customize for different eating styles. It’s one of my favorite staples because it supports healthy eating without sacrificing flavor or comfort.
Whether you’re focusing on portion control, meal prep, or simply eating more homemade meals, this recipe fits seamlessly into a balanced lifestyle. Healthy cooking doesn’t have to be complicated—sometimes simple really is best.
Cook With the Kitchen Tools I Use
Having the right kitchen tools makes cooking even easier. From quality baking dishes to prep essentials, these are the tools I personally use to make healthy cooking simple, efficient, and stress-free.
Shop my healthy kitchen favorites on Amazon
A good meal doesn’t need to be fancy. Sometimes, a simple baked chicken is all you need to feel nourished, satisfied, and at home.