Baked Chicken with Italian Herbs
A Mediterranean-inspired dish that transforms ordinary chicken into a restaurant-worthy meal with just a few ingredients and basic techniques. Chicken pieces seasoned generously with a mix of Italian herbs, garlic, and olive oil, then baked for an aromatic and flavorful meal that requires minimal hands-on time.
Equipment
- Baking Dish
- Small Bowl
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken pieces thighs and drumsticks work best, but breasts can be used
- 3 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin for richer flavor
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons Italian herb blend or mix of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary
- 1 teaspoon paprika smoked paprika adds depth
- 1 lemon thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- fresh herbs for garnish basil or parsley
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels – this crucial step ensures crispy skin and better herb adhesion. Arrange chicken in a single layer in a baking dish large enough to avoid overcrowding.
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until well blended. The oil helps the herbs stick to the chicken and creates that beautiful golden color during baking.
- Generously brush the herb and oil mixture over each piece of chicken, making sure to get under the skin where possible for maximum flavor penetration. Your fingertips are the best tool for this job – don't be afraid to get hands-on with your food!
- Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the baking dish (not over the chicken). Arrange lemon slices between and around the chicken pieces. This creates a fragrant steam during cooking that infuses the meat.
- Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy. For an extra-crispy finish, broil for the final 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Allow the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is succulent and tender. Garnish with fresh herbs just before serving.
Notes
If you don't have an Italian herb blend, create your own with 1/2 tablespoon each of dried oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme. Boneless chicken works too, just reduce cooking time by about 15 minutes.
For a lower-fat option, use skinless chicken breasts and reduce olive oil to 1 tablespoon, adding 2 tablespoons of chicken broth to maintain moisture.
To make ahead, prepare everything up to 24 hours ahead, refrigerate covered, and add 5-7 extra minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
Nutrition
Calories: 385kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 38gFat: 24gSodium: 420mgFiber: 1gVitamin A: 8IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 10mg
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