Hey there! If you’re looking to dive into the world of cooking, I can’t recommend chicken recipes enough, especially this one! It’s a simple and delicious baked chicken dish that’s perfect for beginners. I remember when I first started cooking; chicken was my go-to because it’s so versatile and forgiving. You can dress it up or keep it simple, and it always turns out tasty. In just 40 minutes, you’ll have juicy, flavorful chicken that’s sure to impress anyone at your table. Trust me, you’ll feel like a pro in no time with this easy recipe!
Ingredients List
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
How to Prepare Instructions
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheated! This step is super important because it ensures your chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden color. Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Just turn the dial or press the buttons until you hit that temperature, and let it warm up while you prepare the chicken. It’ll make all the difference!
Prepare the Chicken
Now, grab your chicken breasts and place them in a baking dish. Make sure they have some space between them! This helps them cook evenly. If they’re crowded, they might steam instead of bake, and we definitely want that crispy exterior. Just lay them down nice and flat, and we’re good to go!
Seasoning the Chicken
Time to add some flavor! Drizzle that lovely olive oil over both chicken breasts. Use your hands or a brush to spread it around. This not only adds flavor but also helps the seasonings stick. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika evenly on both sides. Be careful not to over-season; you can always add more later if needed, but you can’t take it away once it’s on!
Adding Lemon Slices
Next, let’s brighten things up with lemon! Take those thin slices and arrange them on top of the chicken. The lemon adds a refreshing zing that enhances the flavor as it bakes. Plus, it looks so pretty! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
Baking the Chicken
Now, it’s time to bake! Pop your baking dish in the preheated oven and set a timer for 25-30 minutes. How do you know when it’s done? You can check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have one, just make sure the chicken is no longer pink in the center!
Resting and Slicing
Once your chicken is cooked through, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial because it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it juicy and tender. When you slice it, do so against the grain for the best texture. And voilà! You’ve got beautifully baked chicken ready to impress!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to chicken recipes, this baked chicken is not only delicious but also a smart choice for a healthy meal! Each serving, which consists of one chicken breast, is estimated to have about 250 calories. You’ll also get around 10 grams of fat, with 2 grams being saturated fat. This dish is packed with protein—about 40 grams per serving—which is fantastic for keeping you full and satisfied. Plus, it’s low in carbs and sugar, making it a great option for those watching their intake. Just remember, these values are estimates based on standard ingredients, so your numbers might vary a bit!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You can do this by leaving it in the fridge overnight or using the defrost setting on your microwave. Cooking frozen chicken directly can lead to uneven cooking, so thawing is key for that juicy, tender result!
What can I serve with this chicken?
This baked chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. I love serving it with steamed broccoli or a fresh garden salad for a light meal. You could also go for roasted potatoes or fluffy rice to soak up all those delicious juices. Whatever you choose, it’ll be a hit!
How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which I doubt, because it’s so tasty!), just let the chicken cool to room temperature first. Then, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat it in the oven or microwave. Just be sure to heat it until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to keep it safe and delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation time—ready in just 40 minutes!
- Uses simple, everyday ingredients that you probably already have.
- Minimal cleanup—just one baking dish to wash!
- Delicious flavor that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
- Perfect for beginners, making it a stress-free cooking experience.
Tips for Success
Here are a few handy tips to make sure your baked chicken turns out perfectly every time! First, make sure to season both sides of the chicken thoroughly for even flavor—don’t skip the underside! It might be tempting to rush, but take your time with the baking—check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it hits that magic 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have one, make sure there’s no pink inside. And remember, letting the chicken rest after baking is key to keeping it juicy! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be a chicken cooking pro in no time!
Variations
If you want to switch things up a bit, there are so many fun ways to modify this baked chicken recipe! You could try adding different spices like Italian seasoning or taco seasoning for a flavor twist. Want some veggies? Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini around the chicken before baking for a one-pan meal! You could even swap the lemon for lime for a zesty change. The possibilities are endless—get creative and make it your own!
For more chicken recipes, check out quick chicken dinner ideas or chicken, cheese, and broccoli recipes. If you’re interested in the nutritional benefits of chicken, you can read more about it here.
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Chicken Recipes for Juicy Beginners in Just 40 Minutes!
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A simple and delicious chicken recipe perfect for beginners.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- Drizzle olive oil over the chicken.
- Sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika on both sides of the chicken.
- Arrange lemon slices on top of the chicken.
- Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Make sure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Feel free to add your favorite herbs for extra flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: chicken recipes for beginners, easy chicken recipe, baked chicken
