Baked Chicken
Baked chicken is a classic dish that offers a delightful combination of flavors and aromas. Perfectly seasoned and roasted to juicy perfection, this dish is ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a weeknight meal, this baked chicken recipe is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients
– 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh herbs (e.g., thyme, rosemary)
– 4 carrots, sliced
– 2 cups of mixed bell peppers, sliced
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4-6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 1 hour.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the chicken) contains roughly 300 calories, 20g of fat, 25g of protein, and 1g of carbohydrates. This is based on a serving size of 4 oz of chicken.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Place the chicken in a roasting pan.
4. Rub the chicken all over with olive oil.
5. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Season the chicken evenly with the spice mixture.
7. Stuff the cavity with fresh herbs for added flavor.
8. Arrange sliced carrots and bell peppers around the chicken.
9. Cover the pan with aluminum foil for the first 30 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and roast for another 30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the whole chicken with chicken thighs or breasts if you prefer. Additionally, feel free to use any veggies you have on hand, such as potatoes or zucchini, to customize the dish.
Serving and Pairings
Baked chicken pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh garden salad. Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Baked chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s well-wrapped.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the chicken, leading to dryness.
- Not seasoning adequately before baking.
- Skipping the resting time after cooking.
- Using a pan that’s too small, causing uneven cooking.
- Not preheating the oven properly.
- Ignoring the internal temperature check.
Helpful Tips
- Let the chicken sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices for unique flavors.
- Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor.
FAQs
How long should I bake a whole chicken?
A whole chicken should be baked at 375°F for about 20 minutes per pound. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
It’s best to thaw the chicken before baking to ensure even cooking. A frozen chicken will take significantly longer to cook through.
What vegetables can I bake with chicken?
You can bake a variety of vegetables, including carrots, potatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, and onions. They add flavor and absorb delicious juices.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be 165°F in the thickest part of the chicken. The juices should run clear.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and vegetables beforehand, then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just adjust cooking time as needed.
Conclusion
Baked chicken is a versatile and satisfying dish that everyone will love. With its simple preparation and rich flavors, it’s perfect for any meal. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy your delicious homemade baked chicken!
Baked Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken about 4-5 lbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh herbs e.g., thyme, rosemary
- 4 carrots sliced
- 2 cups of mixed bell peppers sliced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- Place the chicken in a roasting pan.
- Rub the chicken all over with olive oil.
- In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Season the chicken evenly with the spice mixture.
- Stuff the cavity with fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Arrange sliced carrots and bell peppers around the chicken.
- Cover the pan with aluminum foil for the first 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and roast for another 30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
