Easy Oven Baked Chicken

Easy Oven Baked Chicken: A Simple and Flavorful Delight

Are you on the hunt for a fuss-free yet scrumptious dish that’s perfect for any day of the week? Look no further than our Easy Oven Baked Chicken recipe! With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create juicy, tender chicken breasts or tenders coated in crispy Italian panko breadcrumbs. This mouthwatering dish is sure to become a family favorite and a go-to meal option when you’re short on time but craving something delicious. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to make this irresistible oven-baked chicken!

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken breast or tenders
  • Mayo
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Garlic Powder
  • 1 1/2 cups Italian panko breadcrumbs
  • Olive oil spray

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare the Chicken

  • If using chicken breasts, slice them horizontally to create thinner cutlets. Alternatively, you can use chicken tenders for quicker cooking.
  • Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste.

3. Coat with Mayo

  • Spread a thin layer of mayo evenly over each piece of chicken. This will help seal in moisture and create a golden, crispy crust when baked.

4. Coat with Breadcrumbs

  • Pour the Italian panko breadcrumbs onto a shallow plate or dish.
  • Press each piece of chicken into the breadcrumbs, ensuring it’s evenly coated on all sides. Gently shake off any excess breadcrumbs.

5. Arrange on Baking Sheet

  • Place the breaded chicken pieces onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece to allow for even cooking.

6. Spray with Olive Oil

  • Lightly spray the top of each chicken piece with olive oil spray. This will help the breadcrumbs turn golden brown and crispy during baking.

7. Bake

  • Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breadcrumbs are golden and crispy.

8. Serve and Enjoy

  • Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations

  • Flavor Variations: Experiment with different seasonings and spices to customize the flavor of your oven-baked chicken. Try adding smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, or dried herbs like thyme and rosemary for extra flavor.
  • Cheesy Option: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese over the mayo-coated chicken before adding the breadcrumbs.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes as a substitute for the Italian panko breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here’s how you can make a keto-friendly version of Easy Oven Baked Chicken:

  • Breading Substitute: Instead of using breadcrumbs, coat the chicken with a mixture of crushed pork rinds and grated Parmesan cheese seasoned with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Mayo Substitute: Use avocado oil-based mayo or homemade mayo made with keto-friendly ingredients to coat the chicken.
  • Olive Oil Spray: Opt for an olive oil or avocado oil spray to keep the chicken moist and help the breading adhere without adding carbs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts or tenders? A: Yes, you can absolutely use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly as thighs may take slightly longer to cook compared to breasts or tenders.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: While this dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven for optimal crispiness, you can prepare the breaded chicken in advance and refrigerate it for up to 4 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover the chicken to prevent it from drying out.

Q: What can I serve with this oven-baked chicken? A: This chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or a crisp salad. Get creative and serve it with your favorite sides to complete the meal.

Q: Can I freeze leftover baked chicken? A: Yes, you can freeze any leftover baked chicken for future meals. Allow the chicken to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free? A: Yes, you can make this recipe dairy-free by using a dairy-free mayo alternative and omitting the cheese if using a cheesy variation. Ensure all ingredients are dairy-free and suitable for your dietary preferences.

In conclusion, our Easy Oven Baked Chicken recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create crispy, golden chicken breasts or tenders that are sure to please the whole family. Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle, looking for a gluten-free option, or simply craving a satisfying meal, this recipe is versatile enough to accommodate your dietary needs and preferences. So, give it a try and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade oven-baked chicken tonight!