Perfectly Baked Bone-In Chicken

Why make this recipe

Making perfectly baked bone-in chicken is an excellent choice for any meal. This recipe is easy to follow and takes minimal effort, yet it delivers juicy, flavorful chicken with crispy skin. It’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prep for the week. Plus, you can customize the seasonings to suit your taste!

How to make Perfectly Baked Bone-In Chicken

Ingredients:

• Bone-in chicken pieces
• Salt
• Pepper
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Herbs (such as thyme or rosemary)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Sear the chicken pieces skin-side down for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
5. Flip the chicken over, add any herbs if desired, and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
6. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Helpful Tools for This Recipe

These tools make it easier to get perfectly crispy, juicy baked bone-in chicken :

• Lodge enameled dutch oven — great for searing and roasting evenly in one pan.
• Oven-safe nonstick skillet — perfect for browning the chicken before putting it in the oven.
• Silicone basting brush — helps coat the chicken evenly with oil and spices for a crispier finish.
• Instant-read meat thermometer — essential for checking that the chicken reaches 165°F without drying out.

How to serve Perfectly Baked Bone-In Chicken

Serve the chicken hot, straight from the oven. It pairs well with a variety of sides, like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad. Consider adding a dipping sauce or gravy for extra flavor. For an elegant touch, garnish with fresh herbs.

How to store Perfectly Baked Bone-In Chicken

Once the chicken has cooled, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing the chicken. Wrap it tightly and it can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Tips to make Perfectly Baked Bone-In Chicken

• Make sure to dry the chicken well before seasoning. This helps achieve a crispy skin.
• Feel free to adjust the seasonings based on your preferences. Add spices like cayenne pepper for heat or lemon zest for brightness.
• Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. This ensures the chicken stays juicy and does not get overcooked.

Variation

You can try different herbs or spices to change up the flavor. Some options include Italian seasoning, cumin, or even a hint of BBQ sauce. Consider marinating the chicken beforehand for added depth of flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I use skinless chicken for this recipe?
A: While skinless chicken can be used, the skin adds flavor and helps keep the chicken moist. This method may not yield the same crispy skin without it.

Q: How can I tell if the chicken is cooked properly?
A: The best way to check is to use a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and season it ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it.

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