1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is key for getting a nicely browned skin while keeping the inside juicy.
2. Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the skin get crispy in the oven.
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, and paprika. This will be your seasoning mixture.
- Season both sides of the chicken pieces with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Season the Chicken
- Brush the butter and herb mixture all over the chicken pieces, making sure to cover them evenly. For extra flavor, you can gently lift the skin and brush some of the mixture directly onto the meat.
4. Arrange for Baking
- Place the chicken pieces skin-side up in a lightly greased baking dish or on a rimmed baking sheet. Make sure they’re not touching each other too closely to allow for even cooking and browning.
5. Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown on the outside and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
6. Rest and Serve
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender and flavorful.
- Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Tips for Perfect Baked Chicken
- Ensure Even Cooking: If using different cuts of chicken (thighs, breasts, drumsticks), be aware they may cook at different rates. Smaller pieces or those with less meat might be done sooner.
- Skin-On: Keeping the skin on helps the chicken stay moist during baking. For a lower-fat version, you can remove the skin, but consider brining or marinating the chicken first to keep it juicy.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest before cutting into it is crucial for retaining its juices. Just a few minutes will do the trick.
- Customize Your Seasoning: Feel free to play with the seasonings. This basic recipe can be easily adapted with different herbs, spices, and flavorings to match your meal’s theme or your personal preference.
Baked chicken, with its crisp skin and tender meat, makes for a comforting and satisfying meal any day of the week. Pair it with your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables, a salad, or mashed potatoes, for a complete and delicious dinner.