Making oven baked chicken is a great way to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal. Not only can it be cooked quickly, it also tastes great and is an excellent source of protein. The best part is that baking a chicken in the oven is super easy and doesn’t require any special cooking skills. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can have a delicious oven-baked chicken in no time. Here is a step-by-step guide to baking a chicken in the oven.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
The first step in baking a chicken in the oven is to preheat the oven to the correct temperature. Preheating the oven ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and that it does not overcook or dry out. For best results, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). It is important to note that different types of chicken may require different temperatures, so be sure to check the label of the chicken to ensure that you are preheating the oven to the correct temperature.
Step 2: Prep the Chicken
Once the oven is preheated, it’s time to prep the chicken. Start by washing the chicken and patting it dry with paper towels. Then, season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like. Rub the seasonings into the chicken so that they are evenly distributed. You can also stuff the cavity of the chicken with your favorite stuffing or herbs, if desired.
Step 3: Place the Chicken in the Oven
Once the chicken is seasoned, it’s time to place it in the oven. Place the chicken on a roasting pan or in a baking dish. Cover the dish with aluminum foil, then place it in the oven. Cook the chicken for about 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Be sure to check the chicken periodically to ensure that it is cooking evenly and not burning.
Step 4: Let the Chicken Rest
Once the chicken is done cooking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute and will help retain the moisture. Once the chicken has rested, you can carve it and enjoy your delicious oven-baked chicken.
Conclusion
Making oven-baked chicken is an easy and delicious way to enjoy a healthy meal. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious and nutritious chicken dinner in no time. Preheat the oven, prep the chicken, place it in the oven, and let it rest. Follow these steps and you will have a delicious oven-baked chicken in no time.