If you’re looking for a no-fuss dinner that’s packed with flavor, this Oven Baked Chicken is a winner! Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and so easy to make, it’s the kind of meal that’ll have your family asking for seconds. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a laid-back weekend dinner!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Whole Chicken Recipe
- Simple and Foolproof: Easy to prepare with ingredients you likely already have on hand.
- Juicy and Flavorful: Baking locks in moisture while creating a perfectly seasoned, golden crust.
- Versatile Main Dish: Pairs wonderfully with salads, veggies, or your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- Whole chicken: The star ingredient for the Oven Baked Chicken recipe, delivering juicy and flavorful meat.
- Oregano: Adds an aromatic, earthy flavor to the dish.
- Garlic powder: Enhances the chicken with a savory and robust taste.
- Salt: Essential for bringing out the chicken’s natural flavors.
- Lemon juice: Provides a bright and zesty kick to the oven baked chicken.
- Melted butter: Ensures a rich, golden crust and moist texture.
- Liquid honey: Offers a subtle sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
How To Bake Chicken In The Oven
Step One: In a small bowl, mix oregano, salt, and garlic powder.
Step Two: Add lemon juice and melted butter to the spice mix. Stir well, then mix in the honey until smooth.
Step Three: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Spread the marinade evenly over the chicken, covering all sides.
Step Four: Bake at 400°F for 10 minutes, then reduce to 320°F and bake for 70 minutes. If it browns too fast, cover with foil. Serve with fresh herbs and veggies.
Expert Tips
- Bringing Magic: Soak the chicken in salted water for 1-2 hours before marinating for juicier meat.
- Butter Under Skin: Gently rub melted butter under the skin for extra moisture and flavor.
- Rest Before Cutting: Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes after baking to keep it tender and juicy.
- Crispy Finish: Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end to get a golden, crispy skin.
Variations
- Herb and Citrus: Swap oregano with rosemary and thyme, and add orange juice for a fresh citrusy twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add chili powder or cayenne pepper to the spice mix for a flavorful heat.
- Garlic Parmesan: Mix Parmesan cheese with garlic powder and oregano for a cheesy, crispy finish.
- Honey Mustard: Replace honey with Dijon mustard for a tangy and sweet glaze.
How To Store Oven Baked Chicken
- Cool: Let chicken cool to room temperature (no more than 2 hours).
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
- Freeze: Remove meat from bones, store in freezer-safe bags, and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven, microwave, or stovetop with a little broth to retain moisture.
What To Serve With This Recipe
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and flavorful, these pair beautifully with the chicken.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers complements the chicken’s flavors.
- Buttery Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls are perfect for soaking up the juices from the Oven-Baked Chicken recipe.
- Rice Pilaf: Light and aromatic, this is a great match for your baked chicken.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, they balance the rich flavors of the savory chicken.
Oven Baked Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 Whole Chicken
- 1/2 tbsp Oregano
- 1/2 Garlic Powder
- 1/2 tbsp Salt
- 3 tbsp Lemon Juice
- 3 tbsp Melted Butter
- 1 tbsp Liquid Honey
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix oregano, salt, and garlic powder.
- Add lemon juice and melted butter to the spice mix. Stir well, then mix in the honey until smooth.
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Spread the marinade evenly over the chicken, covering all sides.
- Bake at 400°F for 10 minutes, then reduce to 320°F and bake for 70 minutes. If it browns too fast, cover with foil. Serve with fresh herbs and veggies.