Are you looking for a delicious and healthy meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This baked half chicken recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking that delivers big on flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen. Forget complicated recipes and takeout – this simple recipe is your shortcut to a satisfying and flavorful dinner. Get ready to experience the joy of easy recipes that taste like they came from a gourmet restaurant!
Ingredients:
- 2 (1.5-2 lb) whole chickens, cut in half
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
Instructions:
Preparing the Chicken:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your chicken cooks evenly and to perfection.
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Rinse the chicken halves under cold water and pat them completely dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the skin crisp up beautifully.
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In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. This simple spice blend adds a depth of flavor that elevates the dish.
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Generously rub the spice mixture all over the chicken halves, ensuring that both sides are evenly coated. Don't be shy with the seasoning!
Roasting the Chicken:
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Place the chicken halves in a baking dish. A roasting pan works perfectly, but a regular baking dish is fine too.
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Tuck lemon wedges and fresh herbs (rosemary and thyme) under the skin and around the chicken. This adds a burst of fresh citrus and herbal flavor.
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Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
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Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
Tips for the Best Baked Half Chicken:
- For extra crispy skin: Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space between the chicken halves for even cooking and browning.
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken: This method delivers the most flavorful and juicy results.
- Baste the chicken: For extra moisture and flavor, baste the chicken with pan juices every 15-20 minutes during cooking.
Delicious Variations:
- Lemon Herb: Add more lemon wedges and herbs like oregano or parsley.
- Garlic Lover's Delight: Add a few cloves of minced garlic to the spice rub.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the spice rub.
- Mediterranean Flavors: Use dried oregano, thyme, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
This baked half chicken recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It’s quick dinner idea that’s perfect for busy weeknights, and a delicious dish you can feel good about serving your family and friends. Enjoy the best recipes, simply made!