Baked-Chicken

INGREDIENTS:

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts

3 tablespoons olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped

1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

1 lemon, sliced

Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional: 1 teaspoon paprika for added color and flavor

DIRECTIONS:

1. Preparing the Chicken:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Place them on a cutting board.

2. Seasoning the Chicken:

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Mix well to create a paste.

Rub the herb paste generously over both sides of the chicken breasts. Ensure they are evenly coated for optimal flavor.

3. Arranging the Chicken:

Take a baking dish and lightly grease it with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the baking dish, skin-side up, with some space between each piece.

Tuck lemon slices underneath and around the chicken breasts for added flavor. Squeeze some lemon juice over the chicken.

4. Baking the Chicken:

Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The chicken should turn golden brown, and its internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Midway through baking, baste the chicken with the juices in the baking dish to keep it moist and flavorful.

5. Checking for Doneness:

To ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken breast without touching bone. If it reaches 165°F (74°C), the chicken is ready.

6. Resting and Serving:

Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender.

Garnish with fresh herbs or additional lemon slices for presentation if desired.