Golden Baked Chicken a Weeknight Wonder

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever get that craving for succulent, juicy chicken? This golden baked chicken recipe nails it. The secret? A simple baked chicken marinade that infuses flavour right to the bone.

Brief Overview

This recipe is inspired by those classic Sunday roasts. This easy baked chicken marinade recipe is straightforward. Prep takes 15 minutes, marinating at least 30 mins (or overnight).

Baking needs 45 to 55 mins. It serves 4.

Main Benefits

Chicken is lean protein. It's perfect for a weeknight family dinner. This particular recipe delivers delicious chicken marinade flavor.

Craving a Winner Winner Chicken Dinner?

Oh my gosh, who doesn't love chicken? Especially when it's baked to perfection. A good chicken breast marinade baked can make all the difference. Let's explore how to make an amazing meal!

This recipe is surprisingly simple. The prep is quick, and the results are amazing! Think flavourful, juicy chicken without the fuss.

Let's Talk Marinade Recipes for Chicken

This yummy chicken marinade is the star! Olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs... honestly, it's like a Mediterranean party in your mouth.

I've even used this simple chicken marinade for baking on a whim when unexpected guests pop round. It's proper tasty.

What You'll Need

Let's gather your supplies. You'll need 900g of bone-in chicken. 60ml each of olive oil and lemon juice. 2 minced garlic cloves and tablespoons of rosemary and thyme.

Now just add paprika, salt, and pepper. Chicken broth or water will be needed for baking. This overnight baked chicken marinade recipe is truly fantastic.

Ingredients & Equipment for This Delicious Chicken Marinade

So, you wanna make this yummy chicken marinade a reality? Let’s talk ingredients and gear! It’s simpler than you think.

This baked chicken marinade recipe is designed to be approachable. No fancy chef skills needed. Honestly, anyone can nail this.

Main Ingredients: The Flavor Powerhouse

Here’s the lowdown on what you’ll need. Remember, quality counts, especially with chicken. If you can swing it, go for free range. You'll taste the difference!

• Chicken: 2 lbs (900g) Bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces are best. Thighs and drumsticks are my personal favs. This also works great as an oven baked chicken thigh marinade !
• Olive Oil: 1/4 cup (60ml) Extra virgin is the way to go.
• Lemon Juice: 1/4 cup (60ml) Freshly squeezed is key . Trust me on this.
• Garlic: 2 cloves Minced. Don't be shy with the garlic.
• Rosemary: 1 tablespoon Fresh, chopped. Or 1 teaspoon dried.
• Thyme: 1 tablespoon Fresh, chopped. Or 1 teaspoon dried.
• Paprika: 1 teaspoon Sweet. Adds a nice color too.
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
• Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon Freshly ground, naturally.
• Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup (120ml) Or water. Keeps things moist in the oven.

Seasoning Notes: Your Simple Chicken Marinade for Baking

This is where the magic happens. The essential spice combo of rosemary, thyme, and garlic is chef's kiss . Paprika adds warmth and colour.

Want a kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes. No fresh herbs? Dried herbs work! Just use less.

Equipment Needed: Bare Essentials Only

Don’t stress about having all the gadgets. The easy baked chicken marinade recipes calls for basic gear. No need to break the bank!

• Large Bowl or Resealable Bag: For marinating.
• 9x13 inch (23x33cm) Baking Dish:
• Meat Thermometer: Optional, but a lifesaver for making sure chicken is cooked to a safe 165° F ( 74° C) .

Honestly, you probably have most of this stuff already. I once made a similar best marinade for baked chicken thighs using a casserole dish.

As you can see it’s all about using what you have. Now, let's get cooking!

Golden Baked Chicken: Your New Weeknight Hero

Honestly, who doesn't love a good chicken dinner? I’m always on the lookout for easy baked chicken marinade recipes. This "Golden Baked Chicken" is a total game changer.

It takes the humble chicken to a whole new level. It's the type of easy baked chicken marinade that makes you feel like a proper chef, even if you're just winging it.

Prep Like a Pro: The Essential Mise en Place

First things first, gather your troops! I call this "essential mise en place". Roughly translate, is organizing all of your ingredients! Measure out 60ml of olive oil , 60ml of lemon juice , mince 2 cloves of garlic .

Chop up 1 tablespoon each of fresh rosemary and thyme . Have your 1 teaspoon of paprika , 1/2 teaspoon of salt , and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper ready.

Having everything prepped saves loads of time! It also prevents that "Oh my gosh, I'm out of garlic!" moment mid-cooking.

step-by-step to Chicken Perfection

1. Get Marinating! In a bowl (or a ziplock bag for easy cleanup), whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. This is your yummy chicken marinade.
2. Chicken Time: Add your 900g chicken pieces to the marinade. Make sure every piece is coated. For chicken breast marinade baked , ensure coverage!
3. Chill Out: Seal the bag or cover the bowl. Pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes . Overnight is even better!
4. Preheat Power: Preheat your oven to 400° F ( 200° C/Gas Mark 6) . No one likes a cold oven!
5. Arrange & Bake: Place your marinated chicken in a baking dish in a single layer. Pour 120ml of chicken broth into the bottom. Bake for 45- 55 minutes.
6. The Magic Number: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature hits 165° F ( 74° C) . Safety first, always!
7. Rest & Enjoy: Let the chicken rest for 5- 10 minutes before serving. This is key for juicy chicken.

Secret Weapons for Epic Chicken

• Overnight baked chicken marinade is the absolute BEST. The longer it sits, the more flavorful the chicken gets.
• Pat the chicken dry before baking. This helps achieve that gorgeous, crispy skin.
• Avoid overcrowding the pan. Give each piece of chicken some space to breathe and get nicely browned.

This oven baked chicken thigh marinade recipe truly elevates your cooking game, making it a family favourite. Seriously, you'll impress everyone with this simple chicken marinade for baking. Enjoy!

Recipe Notes for the Best Baked Chicken Marinade

Alright, let's talk shop about this Golden Baked Chicken . This isn't just any old recipe; it's how to achieve chicken greatness.

It's all about those little details that make a big difference. We can call it Delicious Chicken Marinade recipe

Serving Suggestions: Make it Pretty

Presentation matters, right? After all, we eat with our eyes first. Plating this yummy chicken marinade masterpiece is simple. Serve each portion with a generous spoonful of pan juices.

They're liquid gold. Add a sprig of fresh rosemary and a lemon slice to each plate for a touch of elegance.

On sides, try creamy mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a simple garden salad. A chilled glass of white wine or a crisp apple cider would be lovely too.

I've even served it with couscous. It was a total hit!

Storage Tips: Keeping it Fresh

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store any leftover marinated chicken in oven recipe in an airtight container in the fridge. It'll be good for 3-4 days.

To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) until warmed through. This keeps it nice and moist.

Freezing is also an option. Wrap the chicken tightly in foil or freezer bags. Then, it can stay good for up to 2 months.

Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. Honestly, though, it's so good, I doubt you'll have much left to freeze.

Variations: Make it Your Own

Want to shake things up? This Simple Chicken Marinade For Baking is so adaptable. For a gluten-free version, simply ensure your chicken broth is certified gluten-free. It's easy peasy.

If you are low carb, reduce the amount of lemon juice.

To play with seasonal swaps, consider using different herbs. In the summer, try basil or oregano. In the winter, sage or marjoram would be fantastic.

I once tried using orange zest. It was an absolute winner!

Nutrition Basics: Fuel Your Body

Each serving of this oven baked chicken thigh marinade offers about 450 calories. It also packs a hefty 45g of protein.

Also there's a good dose of fat at 30g. The marinade is also good for your cardiovascular system.. It's also a good source of vitamins and minerals.

It supports muscle growth and overall health. Think of it as a delicious way to nourish your body.

This Best Marinade for Baked Chicken Thighs is more than just a recipe; it's an experience. Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own.

With easy baked chicken marinade recipes like this, you can become a kitchen star. Now, go on and give it a try! I just know it will become a new favourite.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavour?

For optimal flavour, marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes, but ideally, 2-4 hours, or even better, overnight! Think of it like brewing a good cuppa the longer it steeps, the richer the flavour. Just be sure to keep it refrigerated while it's marinating.

Can I use different chicken pieces with this baked chicken marinade recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks, as mentioned, but you can also use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. If using breasts, reduce the baking time by 15-20 minutes to prevent them from drying out.

Remember, dark meat is more forgiving, a bit like a proper Yorkshire pudding!

How do I make sure my baked chicken is cooked through properly?

The best way to ensure your chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don't have a thermometer, pierce the thigh with a fork; the juices should run clear, not pink.

No one wants a soggy bottom, and no one wants undercooked chicken!

Can I store leftover baked chicken? How long will it last?

Yes, you can store leftover baked chicken! Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven, microwave, or even enjoy it cold in a salad or sandwich a perfect Boxing Day treat!

Is there any way to make this baked chicken marinade recipe healthier?

You bet! You can reduce the amount of olive oil slightly, or use skinless chicken pieces to cut down on fat. Serving it with plenty of vegetables, like roasted broccoli or a fresh salad, will also create a more balanced and nutritious meal.

It's all about enjoying a bit of what you fancy while keeping things sensible a bit like having that extra biscuit with your tea!

What variations can I make to this baked chicken marinade recipe?

This recipe is super versatile! For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade. For a Mediterranean twist, incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and feta cheese. Or, for a zesty lemon herb flavour, add lemon zest.

A different blend of herbs changes the whole dynamic, it's just like putting a different record on - same tune, just a slightly different rhythm!