Place Raw Chicken in a Baking Dish: In 4 Easy Steps, You Have a Heavenly Meal

Sometimes, the simplest meals are the most satisfying, and there’s nothing better than a delicious dish that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. If you’re craving a heavenly chicken dinner that doesn’t take hours to prepare, you’re in the right place. By simply placing raw chicken in a baking dish, you can create a succulent, juicy, and flavorful meal in just 4 easy steps.

This straightforward recipe requires minimal ingredients and prep, making it perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or whenever you want something easy yet mouthwatering. So, let’s dive into how you can turn raw chicken into a mouthwatering meal with just four simple steps!

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts (or thighs, if you prefer dark meat)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
• Fresh parsley or basil (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures the chicken will cook through evenly and stay tender while forming a slight golden crust on the outside.

Next, prepare your baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil, cooking spray, or by lining it with parchment paper. This will prevent the chicken from sticking to the dish and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Now it’s time to give your chicken some flavor! Pat your chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes a nice golden sear during baking.

Drizzle olive oil or melted butter over the chicken to keep it moist and add richness. Then, season the chicken generously with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. If you like, sprinkle on some dried thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch.

Step 3: Place Chicken in the Baking Dish

Once seasoned, arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer in your prepared baking dish. Be sure they’re not overlapping so that they cook evenly. At this point, you can add any additional vegetables (like chopped carrots, onions, or potatoes) around the chicken for an all-in-one meal.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. The chicken should be cooked through, juicy, and tender.

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute inside the meat, ensu