Introduction
Chicken is a versatile protein that can be prepared in countless ways. However, baking chicken is a preferred method due to its simplicity and health benefits. In this article, we will walk you through the process of baking a perfect chicken, including tips for spices, marinades, a healthy recipe, and side dishes to compliment this classic dish.
Step-by-step guide on how to bake a perfect chicken in your oven
Before we get started, let’s talk about what a perfect chicken is. A perfect chicken is golden brown on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside, and fully cooked.
Now that we know what we are aiming for, let’s get started on the equipment and ingredients you will need:
- 1 whole chicken, approximately 3-4 pounds
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 baking dish
- Meat thermometer
Step One: Clean and Prep the Chicken
Start by washing the chicken with cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Remove the giblets and neck from the inside of the chicken and discard them. Tuck the wings under the bird’s body, so they don’t burn during the cooking process.
Step Two: Seasoning the Chicken
Season the chicken inside-out with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Rub the butter over the skin and under the skin if desired.
Step Three: Preheat oven and baking the chicken
Preheat oven to 375ºF. Place the chicken breast-side-up in a baking dish. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until a thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken’s thigh registers 165ºF.
Step Four: Checking the Doneness of Chicken
Once the chicken has attained the minimum temperature, remove it from the oven and check if the juices run clear from the chicken’s thigh. Additionally, you can wiggle the legs to test if they feel loose, indicating the chicken is fully cooked.
Step Five: Carving and Serving the Chicken
Allow the chicken to rest, covered with foil, for approximately 10 minutes to lock in those precious juices. Use a carving knife to remove the legs and wings, followed by the breast meat. Serve while still warm.
Healthy baked chicken recipe with minimal ingredients
A healthy recipe is essential for health-conscious people. Here is a basic recipe with minimal ingredients:
- 4 skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
Preheat the oven to 375ºF. Mix salt, black pepper, and garlic powder in a bowl. Rub the spices over the chicken breasts, then drizzle olive oil over the chicken.
Bake the chicken for approximately 25 minutes, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165ºF. Serve with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Feature article on the history of baked chicken
Baked chicken has been a popular dish for centuries. For instance, chicken baked in a clay pot was a staple dish in ancient Rome. Over the years, baked chicken has evolved in various cultures, blending several ingredients and spices.
Today, baked chicken reveals many exciting facts, such as George Washington’s love for the dish. He referred to it as “The Chicken that Reigned Supreme.” It has also become an essential protein for sportspeople around the globe, as it is lean and provides ample energy.
Different marinades and spices to use for baking chicken
Marinating or adding spices to your chicken elevates the flavor and moistness. You can use the following marinades and spices on your baked chicken:
- Lemon juice, oregano, and garlic
- Yoghurt, cumin, coriander, and paprika
- Soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger
- Balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, and thyme
Whisk the desired marinade ingredients in a bowl and pour over the chicken. Cover the baking dish and let sit in the fridge for a minimum of one hour, up to overnight. Pat dry the chicken before baking in the oven.
Best side dishes to serve with baked chicken and how to prepare them
Pairing the right side dish alongside baked chicken completes the meal. Here are some side dishes to consider:
Roasted vegetables
Preheat the oven to 400ºF. Toss your desired vegetables like carrots, broccoli, and potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake for 20-30 minutes until tender and crispy.
Mashed Potatoes
Cook 4 potatoes in boiling water until tender, then mash them with a potato masher or a fork. Add 1/4 cup of milk and 2 tablespoons of butter and mix. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Sautéed Green Beans
Heat some oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the green beans and 2 cloves of garlic and sauté until tender. Sprinkle salt and pepper, and the dish is ready to serve.
Conclusion
We hope you will use this information to bake a perfect chicken, try the healthy recipe, learn about the history of baked chicken, and try out different marinades and spices to elevate the flavor. Don’t forget to pair your baked chicken with the right side dish.
