Introduction
Baking chicken is both a simple and delicious way to prepare this versatile protein. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, baking chicken can be a bit intimidating. Many people struggle with dryness, uneven cooking, or lack of flavor. In this beginner’s guide to baking chicken, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to become a master chicken baker, from choosing the right chicken to combining herbs and spices for the perfect flavor.
Create a Step-by-Step Beginner’s Guide to Baking Chicken
The first step to baking the perfect chicken is choosing the right chicken. You want to look for chicken that is fresh, free-range, and organic if possible. The size of the chicken plays a role in cooking time, so keep this in mind when selecting your bird. Once you have your chicken home, it’s time to prepare it for baking.
The first step in preparing the chicken is cleaning it. Rinse the chicken inside and out with cold water and then pat dry with paper towels. Once the chicken is dry, season it inside and out with salt and pepper. If desired, you can truss the chicken to help it cook evenly. Lastly, set the chicken in a baking dish or sheet pan and bake in a preheated oven according to weight.
The Best Herbs and Spices to Use When Baking Chicken
Herbs and spices are a great way to add flavor to your baked chicken. There are so many different options, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones to use. Fresh herbs will have a more pronounced, bright flavor, while dried herbs have a milder flavor and are easier to store.
Some of the most commonly used herbs and spices for baked chicken are thyme, rosemary, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. You can also experiment with other spices, like cumin or curry powder, for a more exotic taste. A general rule of thumb is to use about one teaspoon of dried herbs or one tablespoon of fresh herbs per pound of chicken.
To combine herbs and spices for a unique, tasty flavor, try mixing them together before seasoning the chicken. For example, mixing paprika, garlic powder, and cumin creates a spicy and smoky flavor. Or try combining rosemary, thyme, and lemon zest for a fresh and vibrant flavor.
Listicle of Unique Chicken Marinades
Marinating your chicken can add even more depth of flavor to your baked chicken. A good marinade can tenderize the chicken and add complexity to the taste. A basic marinade consists of oil and an acid, such as vinegar or citrus. You can add herbs, spices, and other flavorings to create a unique marinade.
Here are five unique marinade recipes to try:
- Lemon-Garlic Marinade: Mix together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Marinate chicken for at least one hour and up to overnight.
- Honey-Soy Marinade: Whisk together soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes and up to two hours.
- Balsamic-Maple Marinade: Combine balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic, and rosemary. Marinate chicken for at least two hours and up to overnight.
- Yogurt-Cumin Marinade: In a bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, cumin, lemon juice, and garlic. Marinate chicken for at least two hours and up to six hours.
- Spicy Harissa Marinade: Combine Harissa paste, honey, lemon juice, and paprika. Marinate chicken for at least one hour and up to overnight.
Keep in mind that marinating chicken for too long can lead to mushy textures, so follow the recommended marinating time for each recipe.
Healthy Baking Chicken Recipe
Most baked chicken recipes are already quite healthy, as long as you choose the right ingredients and cook it without extra fat. However, there are some alternative ingredients you can use to make the recipe even healthier.
For example, instead of using regular breadcrumbs, try using whole wheat breadcrumbs or almond flour for a gluten-free option. Instead of using butter or oil to coat the chicken, try using Greek yogurt. This helps to lock in moisture and adds tangy flavor.
Here’s a delicious and healthy recipe to try:
Greek Yogurt and Herb Baked Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs, like rosemary, thyme, or oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- In a bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Coat each chicken breast in the yogurt mixture, making sure to coat both sides evenly.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and any additional herbs or spices you desire.
- Press each yogurt-coated chicken breast into the breadcrumbs mixture, making sure to coat both sides.
- Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until an internal thermometer reads 165°F .
The Best Side Dishes That Complement Baked Chicken
When it comes to side dishes that complement baked chicken, there are so many delicious options to choose from. Roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, and brussels sprouts bring both flavor and nutrition to the table. A simple side salad of mixed greens and a vinaigrette dressing is also a nice way to balance the heavier protein.
Other delicious side dishes to try include couscous or quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, and garlic mashed potatoes. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to add even more flavor to your side dishes.
Conclusion
Baking chicken is an easy, healthy way to enjoy this protein-rich food. By following some basic steps, choosing the right ingredients, and experimenting with different herbs, spices, and marinades, you can create a chicken that is flavorful, moist, and delicious. Try out some of the tips and recipes in this beginner’s guide and discover a new family favorite dish.
For more information and inspiration on cooking and baking, check out some of our recommended resources like online cooking classes, food blogs, and cookbooks.