5 Delicious Baked Chicken Recipes You'll Love

If you're a fan of chicken dishes, then this blog post is for you! We've compiled five mouthwatering baked chicken recipes that are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family dinner or a special gathering with friends. These recipes are not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making them ideal for home cooks of all skill levels. Let's dive into these flavorful, oven-baked treats that are sure to impress your taste buds!

1. Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Garlic Parmesan Chicken is the perfect blend of savory and cheesy, with a crispy exterior that everyone loves. Here's how you can make it:

• Ingredients:
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Preparation:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
3. In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each chicken piece in olive oil, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
5. Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving, then sprinkle with fresh parsley.

💡 Note: Using a meat thermometer ensures perfectly cooked chicken without overdoing it.

2. Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken

Looking for a balance of sweet and tangy? Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken will meet your expectations. Here’s what you'll need:

• Ingredients:
  • 4 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper

Preparation:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Mix honey, mustard, soy sauce, and garlic in a bowl to make the glaze.
4. Arrange the chicken in a baking dish and pour the glaze over it, ensuring even coverage.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes, basting occasionally with the glaze, until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
6. Serve hot with the glaze drizzled over.

💡 Note: Basting regularly helps to lock in the flavors and keep the chicken moist.

3. Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken

This Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken recipe is an absolute favorite for its simplicity and vibrant flavor:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs)
  • 1 lemon, halved
  • Fresh rosemary sprigs
  • 1 head garlic, halved crosswise
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper

Preparation:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the chicken inside and out, then pat dry with paper towels.
3. Season the cavity with salt, pepper, and some rosemary.
4. Stuff the chicken with the lemon halves, garlic, and more rosemary.
5. Brush the outside of the chicken with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
6. Roast for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the chicken's juices run clear when you cut between the leg and thigh.
7. Let it rest for 15 minutes before carving.

💡 Note: Letting the chicken rest allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicier result.

4. Paprika & Chipotle Chicken

Spice up your dinner with this Paprika & Chipotle Chicken that brings a bit of heat:

• Ingredients:
  • 6 chicken drumsticks
  • 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon chipotle powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper
  • Olive oil

Preparation:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix all the spices together with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Coat the drumsticks in olive oil, then generously sprinkle the spice mixture over them.
4. Arrange on a baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes, turning once, until the chicken is cooked.
5. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce or on its own for that smoky kick.

💡 Note: Adjust the chipotle powder to your heat preference; less for mild, more for fiery.

5. Chicken Cordon Bleu

If you're in the mood for something indulgent, Chicken Cordon Bleu is an elegant choice that's simpler to make than you might think:

• Ingredients:
  • 4 chicken breasts, pounded thin
  • 4 slices ham
  • 4 slices Swiss cheese
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • Salt and pepper
  • Toothpicks

Preparation:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Lay the chicken breasts flat and place a slice of ham and cheese on each. Roll up and secure with toothpicks.
3. Coat each roll in flour, dip into the beaten eggs, then roll in breadcrumbs.
4. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the internal temperature is 165°F (74°C).
5. Remove toothpicks before serving.

In wrapping up these delightful baked chicken recipes, we've explored various tastes from the comforting Garlic Parmesan to the spicy Paprika & Chipotle, and from the tangy Honey Mustard to the classic elegance of Chicken Cordon Bleu. Each recipe not only offers a unique flavor profile but also highlights different cooking techniques that can enhance your kitchen repertoire. Remember, baking chicken is not just about taste; it's about health, too, with less oil used compared to frying. Whether you're cooking for a family meal, an intimate dinner, or simply because you deserve a treat, these recipes provide versatile, delicious, and healthy options that will surely become staples in your kitchen.

Can I make these chicken recipes ahead of time?

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Yes, most of these recipes can be prepared ahead of time. You can bread or marinate the chicken and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. However, for the best results, cook the chicken fresh to ensure crispiness and flavor.

What sides go well with these chicken dishes?

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Each dish can pair with different sides. Consider roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad. The Garlic Parmesan Chicken pairs well with a Caesar salad, while Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken goes great with garlic bread and grilled asparagus.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use an oven set to 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through, to maintain the texture of the chicken. Microwaving might make the chicken soggy.

Are these recipes gluten-free?

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Some recipes can be easily adapted. For instance, in Garlic Parmesan Chicken, you can replace regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones, and for Chicken Cordon Bleu, you can use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.