Baked chicken is the kind of meal that feels both simple and satisfying—perfect for Lykkers looking to whip up something wholesome without standing over the stove.
Whether you’re prepping for the week or planning a quick dinner, this recipe walks you through an easy method for flavorful, tender chicken that turns golden and delicious in the oven. It’s practical, delicious, and endlessly customizable.
Part 1: How to Bake Chicken the Easy Way
This part covers the ingredients and step-by-step method to help you bake juicy chicken every time.
The Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves 4)
Chicken thighs or drumsticks – 800g (skin on or off, as preferred)
Olive oil – 2 tbsp
Lemon juice – 2 tbsp
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Paprika – 1 tsp
Dried oregano – 1 tsp
Ground cumin – 1/2 tsp
Salt – 1/2 tsp
Black pepper – to taste
Fresh parsley – chopped, for garnish (optional)
Lemon wedges – to serve
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). While it heats, grab a baking dish or tray that fits your chicken without too much crowding.
Step 2: Mix the Marinade
In a small bowl, you stir together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Give it a good whisk until everything is combined.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Place the chicken pieces in the baking dish. Then you pour the marinade over the top and use your hands or a spoon to coat each piece thoroughly. Make sure every piece gets a nice covering—it’s where the flavor starts.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 35–45 minutes. Halfway through, you spoon some of the pan juices over the chicken to help it stay moist. You’ll know it’s ready when the skin is golden and the juices run clear when pierced.
Step 5: Rest and Garnish
Once it’s out of the oven, let the chicken rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This keeps everything juicy. Scatter chopped parsley on top and serve with lemon wedges for a zesty finish.
Part 2: Serving Ideas and Flavor Twists
Why Baked Chicken Works
It’s straightforward, satisfying, and always delivers. A hot oven helps caramelize the outside while keeping the inside tender. The marinade creates layers of flavor with very little effort.
Customize the Flavors
Want to switch it up? Swap lemon for orange juice, or add ground coriander for a warm spice twist. You can also stir a spoonful of yogurt into the marinade for a creamy variation.
Perfect Sides
Serve with roasted vegetables, couscous, herbed rice, or a big green salad. Add some hummus, avocado, or warm flatbread to round it out. For a lighter touch, go with steamed greens or a cucumber-yogurt side.
Batch Cooking Tips
This recipe doubles easily—just give the chicken room in the dish so it roasts rather than steams. Leftovers are great cold in wraps, sandwiches, or chopped into grain bowls.
Baked chicken is a weeknight hero. It’s simple, flexible, and packed with flavor from the first bite. With just a few pantry staples and an oven timer, you’ve got a meal that works for busy days or slow evenings alike.
So Lykkers, gather your ingredients, pour the marinade, and let the oven do the magic. Whether you’re serving guests or just yourself, this dish always delivers golden satisfaction.
