This Baked Chicken recipe delivers tender, flavorful chicken with crispy golden skin and juicy meat inside. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, it’s easy to make with just a few pantry spices and a hot oven!
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Equipment
- Baking dish or sheet pan
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
- Aluminum foil (optional)
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
Ingredient Notes
- Chicken: Thighs stay juicier, but you can use breasts, drumsticks, or a whole cut-up chicken.
- Olive Oil: Helps crisp the skin and lock in moisture.
- Spices: Mix and match with your favorites — Cajun, lemon pepper, or Italian seasoning all work well.
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or lightly grease a baking dish. - Prepare the Chicken:
Pat chicken dry with paper towels — this helps the skin crisp up. Place chicken in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil. - Season:
In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, pepper, and chili powder. Rub seasoning evenly over chicken. - Bake:
Arrange chicken pieces skin-side up on the baking sheet. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). - Rest:
Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep it juicy.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 285
- Protein: 26g
- Fat: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
Tips and Variations
- Crispier Skin: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking.
- Keto Option: This recipe is naturally keto-friendly! Pair it with roasted vegetables or cauliflower mash.
- Marinated Version: Let chicken sit in olive oil, lemon juice, and spices for 1–2 hours before baking for even deeper flavor.
- Storage Tip: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
