Crispy and Juicy Oven Baked Chicken Recipe

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as biting into a piece of crispy, juicy oven baked chicken. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or hosting a gathering with friends and family, this oven baked chicken recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make, using simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.

One of my favorite childhood memories is my grandmother’s oven baked chicken. The kitchen would fill with the delicious aroma of herbs and spices, making everyone eager to grab a piece. This recipe captures that same essence of comfort and flavor while simplifying the process. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, you’ll have a beautifully golden and tender chicken that pairs well with almost any side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This oven baked chicken recipe is a winner for several reasons:

• Easy to make: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can have crispy, juicy chicken ready in under an hour.
• Healthy and flavorful: Baking the chicken in the oven ensures it stays juicy without the need for deep frying, while a mix of herbs and spices gives it bold, delicious flavor.
• Customizable: You can use your favorite herbs and spices or try different cuts of chicken like drumsticks, thighs, or breasts depending on your preference.
• Great for meal prep: Make a batch for dinner and enjoy the leftovers for lunch the next day—this recipe is perfect for those who want to plan ahead.

Ingredients for Oven Baked Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make crispy oven baked chicken:

• 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks (about 2 lbs)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lemon (optional, for garnish)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps the chicken skin become crispy while ensuring the meat stays juicy inside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs or drumsticks dry with paper towels. Drying the chicken skin is key to getting a crispy exterior. Place the chicken in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the chicken, making sure to rub it into the skin so the flavors are well distributed.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Place the chicken pieces skin-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Make sure there’s enough space between each piece so they cook evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken pieces. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Let the Chicken Rest

Once the chicken is golden brown and crispy, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and flavorful.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, garnish the chicken with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for an extra burst of freshness. The tangy lemon pairs beautifully with the savory, spiced chicken.

Cooking Time and Servings

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Baking Time: 35-45 minutes
• Total Time: 45-55 minutes
• Serving Size: 4 servings

Serving Suggestions

This oven baked chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas:

• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes for a complete meal.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a comforting side dish that balances the crispy chicken.
• Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette is a great way to keep the meal light and healthy.
• Rice: Serve the chicken with a side of herbed rice or quinoa for a filling, nutritious option.

Storage and Reheating

This chicken stores well, making it ideal for meal prep. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

• Storage: Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze oven baked chicken for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This helps retain the crispiness of the skin. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the skin may lose some of its crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use Boneless, Skinless Chicken?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time to 20-25 minutes as they will cook faster than bone-in cuts. Keep in mind that the skin-on chicken provides more flavor and crispiness, but the boneless option is a great alternative for a lighter meal.

What Can I Use Instead of Olive Oil?

If you don’t have olive oil, you can substitute it with melted butter or another oil like avocado oil. Both options will give the chicken a great flavor and help crisp the skin.

How Can I Make the Chicken Spicier?

If you love a bit of heat, you can add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix. You can also serve the chicken with a side of hot sauce for extra kick.

Can I Marinate the Chicken?

Yes! If you want even more flavor, you can marinate the chicken in your favorite marinade for a few hours or overnight before baking. Just be sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning and baking to get that crispy skin.

Conclusion

This oven baked chicken recipe is an absolute must-try if you’re looking for a simple, flavorful, and healthy way to enjoy chicken. With crispy skin and juicy, tender meat, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or even as part of a weekend family feast, this recipe is versatile and reliable. Try it out, and don’t forget to share your results in the comments below!