Are you looking for delicious and healthy dinner ideas that are quick to prepare and effortlessly satisfying? Then look no further! This baked chicken recipe is a fantastic choice for busy weeknights, offering a simple yet flavorful meal the whole family will love. Best of all, it’s completely gluten-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions or simply seeking healthier options. This recipe is a perfect example of easy recipes and healthy meals combined.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your chicken cooks evenly and achieves that perfect golden-brown finish.
Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This simple step helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes browning. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Season and Marinate (Optional): Generously rub the spice mixture all over the chicken breasts. For an even more flavorful result, let the chicken marinate in the spice mixture for at least 30 minutes (or even longer in the refrigerator).
Bake the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the dish. This creates a moist environment for the chicken and helps prevent it from drying out during baking.
Cooking Time: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. Overcooked chicken is dry chicken, so keep an eye on it!
Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. The resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
Tips for the Best Baked Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space between the chicken breasts for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most reliable way to ensure your chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations. Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick!
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the spice mixture for a bright and zesty flavor.
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken before baking for a cheesy, savory twist.
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the spice mixture for some heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 5-8g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 1-2g
This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and best recipes. It's a testament to the fact that delicious dishes can also be healthy and easy to make. Enjoy this simple, satisfying, and gluten-free meal! Homemade cooking doesn't get much easier than this.