Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
- Perfectly tender and moist every time
- Versatile—pair it with any side dish
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Great for meal prep and leftovers
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chicken breasts or thighs
- Olive oil or butter
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Lemon juice
- Chicken broth (optional for extra moisture)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Rub the chicken with olive oil or melted butter for extra juiciness.
- Season generously with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- If baking, place the chicken in a baking dish, drizzle with lemon juice, and add a bit of chicken broth. Cover with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes (for breasts) or 30-35 minutes (for thighs), until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- If pan-searing, cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 20-25 minutes (baking) or 12-14 minutes (pan-searing)
- Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes for heat.
- Herb-Infused: Use fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley for added flavor.
- Garlic Butter: Sauté garlic in butter and drizzle over the chicken.
- Crispy Coating: Coat the chicken with panko breadcrumbs for a crunchy texture.
- Citrus Twist: Use lime juice instead of lemon for a different flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
- Freezing: Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
How do I keep chicken from drying out?
Use a marinade, oil, or butter to lock in moisture, and avoid overcooking.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What’s the best way to check if chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight enhances flavor and keeps the chicken juicy.
Is it better to bake or pan-sear chicken?
Both methods work well. Baking is hands-off, while pan-searing gives a crispy exterior.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but thaw it first for even cooking. Cooking from frozen will take longer.
What can I serve with juicy chicken?
Pair it with rice, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
How long should I let the chicken rest after cooking?
Let it rest for at least 5 minutes to keep the juices inside.
Can I use this recipe for grilled chicken?
Yes, grill over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes per side.
What’s the best way to add extra flavor?
Use fresh herbs, citrus juice, or a flavorful marinade before cooking.
Conclusion
Juicy Chicken 101 is your go-to guide for making perfectly tender and flavorful chicken every time. Whether baked, pan-seared, or grilled, this simple recipe delivers delicious results with minimal effort. Try different seasonings and serving options to make it your own!
Print
Juicy Chicken 101
- Total Time: 30min
- Yield: 4servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Learn how to make juicy, tender, and flavorful chicken with this easy recipe! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, this foolproof method ensures your chicken stays moist and delicious every time. Whether you bake, pan-sear, or grill, this recipe will become your go-to for perfectly cooked chicken.
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts or 4 chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ¼ cup chicken broth (optional for extra moisture)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Pat dry the chicken with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Rub the chicken with olive oil or butter for added juiciness.
- Season generously with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Baking Method:
- Place the chicken in a baking dish, drizzle with lemon juice, and add chicken broth.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes (breasts) or 30-35 minutes (thighs), until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Pan-Searing Method:
- Cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Rest the chicken for 5 minutes before slicing to lock in juices
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight.
- For a crispy texture, use the pan-searing method.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste—add cayenne for spice or fresh herbs for extra aroma.
- Prep Time: 5min
- Cook Time: 25min
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
