Ingredients:
This simple baked chicken recipe is perfect for any occasion. You will need a 4-pound whole chicken, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1 lemon, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, and 3 tablespoons butter.
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Rinse the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels. Place the chicken in a roasting pan. Rub the olive oil all over the chicken, then sprinkle the garlic powder, thyme, paprika, onion powder, pepper, and salt over the chicken. Cut the lemon in half and place in the cavity of the chicken. Place the butter around the chicken. Bake the chicken for 1 hour and 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the juices run clear. Once the chicken is done, let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. Sprinkle the parsley over the top before serving.
Nutrition:
This baked chicken recipe is a great way to enjoy a healthy and delicious meal. One serving of this recipe contains about 503 calories, 33.6g of fat, 7.5g of carbohydrates, and 45.5g of protein. This recipe also contains a good source of vitamin A, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, folate, vitamin B12, pantothenic acid, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, and zinc.
Tips for Making the Perfect Baked Chicken:
When preparing this recipe, make sure the chicken is completely thawed before baking. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and prevents any potential food safety issues. To make the perfect baked chicken, make sure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning it. This will help ensure that the seasoning sticks to the chicken and helps to create a crisp, golden skin. Once the chicken is in the oven, it’s important to not open the oven door too often. Opening the oven door allows the heat to escape, which can cause the chicken to not cook evenly.
Serving Suggestions:
This baked chicken recipe is perfect for any occasion. Serve it alongside your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. It also pairs well with a light pasta dish like angel hair with garlic and olive oil. The leftovers make a great sandwich or can be used in a soup or casserole.
Storing Leftovers:
Once the cooked chicken has cooled, place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze the leftovers, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. Store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, let the chicken thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Food Safety:
It’s important to practice proper food safety when preparing and storing this recipe. Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling the raw chicken. It’s also important to keep raw chicken separate from other foods to prevent any potential food safety issues. Always make sure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
Variations:
This recipe is very versatile and can be easily adapted to suit your tastes. You can use different herbs and spices to create different flavors. You can also stuff the cavity of the chicken with a mixture of vegetables like onion, garlic, and carrots. For a spicier version, add some cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the seasoning mix. You can also use different types of citrus, like oranges or limes, instead of lemons.
Conclusion:
This simple baked chicken recipe is the perfect way to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal. It’s easy to make and can be adapted to suit your tastes. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftovers. So, what are you waiting for? Get in the kitchen and give this recipe a try!