This easy-baked chicken recipe involves seasoning the chicken with your choice of herbs and spices, such as garlic, paprika, and thyme, and baking it in the oven until it reaches perfection. What makes this recipe particularly appealing is the convenience – just pop it into the oven, set a timer, and in about an hour, dinner is served. You can also add some lemon slices on top of the chicken for a tangy twist.
Ingredients for easy baked chicken
Chicken
For this easy-baked chicken recipe, I used bone-in, skinless chicken drumsticks to get the maximum flavor. Make slits on the chicken and if you have time let them soak in salty water for about 30 minutes.
After 30 minutes drain the water and dry with a paper towel before adding any seasoning.
Soy Sauce
Soy sauce is a staple ingredient in many Asian cuisines, known for its rich and savory flavor. In this recipe, the use of soy sauce, in addition to salt, enhances the depth of flavor in the dish. The umami-rich qualities of soy sauce add a unique and irresistible taste to the chicken, making it a truly flavorful dish.
Oregano
This herb is closely related to other herbs, including mint, thyme, marjoram, and basil. Oregano along with other ingredients gives the chicken a special flavor.
Spices
I used salt, black pepper, paprika, cumin powder, coriander powder, onion, and garlic powder.
You can also use red chili powder if you like spicy and green chili paste for more flavor.
Lemon Juice
Adding lemon juice to a recipe can bring a burst of citrusy flavor to your dish. The juice of one whole lemon is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various recipes, adding a tangy and refreshing element. Alternatively, if you prefer, lime juice can also be used to achieve a similar effect.
How long does it take to bake the chicken?
I baked this chicken for about 45 to 50 minutes, uncovered at 425F. The air fryer will also give similar results, or use an oven toaster if you would like. Preheat the oven toaster to 425F and bake for about 40 minutes. Adjust the time for the air fryer accordingly.
How to store leftover chicken
Easy-baked chicken is a perfect dish for meal prep. I store chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days in a refrigerator or for a few weeks in the freezer. Make sure to divide it into small portions for easy reheating.
Air fried chicken and potatoes
Equipment
- 1 air fryer
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs with skin
- 1 lbs potatoes cut into 1 inch cubes
ingredients for marination
- 1.5 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp lemon juice or lime
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp paprika you can also use red chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1/2 tbsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp black pepper powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1-2 crushed green chilies optional
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
- Pat dry the chicken and cut potatoes
- Mix all the ingredients mentioned above to make a marinade. Pour the marinade over the chicken and potatoes. Mix them well. You can marinate the chicken overnight and add potatoes before baking.
- Transfer it to a lined tray
Air fry
- Air fry chicken and potatoes at 375°F for 30-35 minutes. Turning them around halfway. You can air fry them in the same basket or use a double air fryer like I did
Bake the Chicken
- You can also bake it.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and bake your chicken and potatoes for 45 to 50 minutes.
- Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken is cooked. Cook the chicken to 165°F or until the juices run clear when you cut into it.
- Sprinkle some fresh parsley and enjoy.