How To Bake Chicken In The Oven At 400

Easy and Delicious Oven-Baked Chicken Recipe

Are you looking for a simple and tasty way to prepare chicken for your next meal? Baking chicken in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit is a great option. Not only does it result in juicy and flavorful chicken, but it’s also a convenient cooking method that requires minimal effort. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to create a delicious and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken, then sprinkle with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried thyme. Use your hands to rub the seasonings and oil evenly over the chicken.
Once the oven is preheated, place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

That’s it! In just a few simple steps, you’ll have perfectly baked chicken that’s tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. Feel free to customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. You can also pair the baked chicken with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Success:

Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken reaches the proper internal temperature.
For extra crispy skin, you can start by searing the chicken in a hot skillet for a few minutes before transferring it to the oven.
Experiment with different herbs and spices to create unique flavor profiles for your baked chicken.
Leftover baked chicken can be used in salads, sandwiches, or wraps for quick and easy meals throughout the week.

Now that you have this simple and delicious oven-baked chicken recipe, you can confidently whip up a satisfying meal for yourself and your loved ones. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or hosting a casual gathering, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!

Share your tips and tricks for baking chicken in the oven at 400°F in the Cooking Techniques forum.

FAQ:

What type of chicken should I use for baking in the oven at 400 degrees?

You can use various cuts of chicken for baking in the oven at 400 degrees, such as chicken breasts, thighs, drumsticks, or even a whole chicken. Just ensure that the chicken is fresh and properly cleaned before baking.

How long does it take to bake chicken in the oven at 400 degrees?

The cooking time for baking chicken in the oven at 400 degrees will depend on the cut and size of the chicken. Generally, boneless, skinless chicken breasts may take around 20-25 minutes, while bone-in chicken pieces may take 35-45 minutes. A whole chicken typically takes about 60-75 minutes.

Should I marinate the chicken before baking it in the oven at 400 degrees?

Marinating the chicken before baking can add flavor and moisture. You can marinate the chicken in your choice of marinade for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours before baking. However, it’s not necessary, and you can still achieve delicious results without marinating.

How can I ensure that the baked chicken is juicy and not dry?

To ensure juicy baked chicken, you can brine the chicken before baking, baste it with butter or olive oil during cooking, and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Avoid overcooking the chicken, as this can lead to dryness.

What are some seasoning options for baked chicken in the oven at 400 degrees?

You can season the chicken with a variety of herbs and spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, oregano, or a pre-made poultry seasoning blend. Additionally, a simple combination of salt, pepper, and olive oil can also enhance the flavor of the chicken.

Should I cover the chicken while baking it in the oven at 400 degrees?

It’s generally not necessary to cover the chicken while baking it at 400 degrees. Leaving the chicken uncovered allows the skin to crisp up and helps the chicken cook evenly. However, if you notice the chicken is browning too quickly, you can loosely tent it with aluminum foil for part of the cooking time.

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