12 Baked Chicken Recipes for Healthy & Delicious Dinners

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Looking for healthy and delicious baked chicken recipes? You’ve got great options! Try Lemon Herb Baked Chicken for an invigorating twist, or enjoy Honey Garlic Baked Chicken for a sweet, savory treat. BBQ Baked Chicken Thighs and Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks pack a punch of flavor, while Mediterranean Baked Chicken brings a taste of sunshine. Don’t miss out on unique dishes like Margherita Baked Chicken or Baked Chicken With Spinach and Feta for extra flair. Keep exploring for even more ideas!

Lemon Herb Baked Chicken

Lemon Herb Baked Chicken is a simple yet delicious dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of lemon and fresh herbs. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or for entertaining guests, as it’s easy to prepare and requires minimal hands-on time. The bright acidity of the lemon pairs beautifully with aromatic herbs, making the chicken tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor.

To enhance the dish, you can marinate the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs before baking. This not only infuses the meat with flavor but also helps to keep it moist during the cooking process. Pair your Lemon Herb Baked Chicken with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish, and pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure to coat it evenly.

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken skin is golden and crispy.

For best results, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the juices redistribute.

You can also adjust the herbs based on your preference—try adding basil or dill for a fresh twist. For an even more intense flavor, consider marinating the chicken for a few hours or overnight.

Finally, don’t forget to spoon the pan juices over the chicken when serving to enhance the taste further.

Honey Garlic Baked Chicken

Honey Garlic Baked Chicken is a delectable dish that combines the rich sweetness of honey with the savory notes of garlic, creating a mouthwatering glaze that adheres perfectly to tender chicken. This recipe isn’t only easy to prepare but also promises to impress your family and guests with its delightful flavors.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to be a favorite at the dinner table.

To enhance the flavor profile, you can marinate the chicken for a few hours or even overnight. This allows the honey and garlic to penetrate the meat, resulting in an even more flavorful outcome. Pair the baked chicken with some steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and nutritious meal that everyone will love.

• 4 chicken thighs or breasts
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, black pepper, and salt until well combined.

Place the chicken in a baking dish and pour the honey garlic mixture over it, ensuring the pieces are coated evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), basting with the sauce halfway through cooking for added flavor.

For best results, consider letting your chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist. Additionally, you can easily customize this dish by adding other spices, such as red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or additional herbs like thyme for extra freshness.

BBQ Baked Chicken Thighs

BBQ Baked Chicken Thighs are a delicious and easy dish that will satisfy any craving for a hearty meal. The rich flavors of BBQ sauce combined with the tender juiciness of chicken thighs make for an irresistible combination that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.

This recipe allows the chicken to bake slowly in the oven, ensuring the meat stays moist while developing a beautiful caramelization from the BBQ sauce. Not only is this dish simple to prepare, but it also uses a handful of common ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.

The marinade can be adjusted to suit your personal taste—whether you prefer a sweeter BBQ sauce or a spicier kick, you can make this recipe your own. Serve it alongside some roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, mixing well. Add the chicken thighs and coat them thoroughly with the mixture.

Place the coated thighs in a baking dish and pour the BBQ sauce evenly over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), basting with extra BBQ sauce halfway through for added flavor.

For the best results, let the chicken thighs rest for about 5-10 minutes after baking before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat even more tender and juicy.

If you want an extra crispy skin, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of baking—just be sure to keep a close eye to prevent burning. Pair this dish with your favorite sides, and enjoy the smoky, sweet flavors of BBQ baked chicken!

Mediterranean Baked Chicken

Mediterranean baked chicken is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean coast to your dinner table. This recipe combines tender chicken with a savory mix of herbs, spices, and vegetables, creating a wholesome meal that’s both simple to prepare and packed with flavor. Ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, Mediterranean baked chicken is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides, such as rice, couscous, or a fresh salad.

The essence of Mediterranean cuisine lies in the use of fresh ingredients, and this recipe harnesses that philosophy by incorporating olives, tomatoes, and herbs that are signature to the region. The aromatic mix of garlic, oregano, and lemon added to the chicken enhances its taste and makes for a beautifully fragrant meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

Enjoy this comforting dish that celebrates the vibrant spirit of Mediterranean cooking!

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1 red onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine the chicken breasts, cherry tomatoes, olives, sliced onion, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together to guarantee the chicken is well-coated with the mixture.

Transfer the entire mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly before placing it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

When preparing Mediterranean baked chicken, feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Zucchini, bell peppers, or artichoke hearts can all be delicious additions.

Make sure to marinate the chicken for a few hours or even overnight for even more flavor. Additionally, keeping the skin on the chicken can add extra crispness and richness to the dish. Enjoy experimenting with different elements to create your perfect Mediterranean experience!

Parmesan Crusted Baked Chicken

Parmesan Crusted Baked Chicken is a delightful way to enjoy tender chicken breasts with a flavorful, crispy coating. The combination of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs not only adds a deliciously cheesy flavor but also creates a satisfying crunch that elevates the dish. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, offering a great balance of taste and simplicity.

With just a few pantry staples, you’ll be able to whip up a meal that will impress your family and friends.

Baking the chicken rather than frying it reduces the overall calories while still delivering all the satisfying bite of a classic fried recipe. This method also allows the chicken to remain juicy and tender, guaranteeing that each bite is full of flavor.

Pair this Parmesan crusted chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal that you’ll want to make over and over again.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (such as oregano and basil)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Coat the chicken breasts in the egg, letting any excess drip off. In a separate bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried herbs, salt, and pepper.

Dip each chicken breast into the mixture, pressing firmly to ascertain the coating adheres. Place each coated chicken breast on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown.

For the best results, let your chicken rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven; this helps to seal in the juices, keeping the meat tender. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices in the breadcrumb mixture to suit your taste.

If you prefer an extra crispy crust, consider broiling the chicken for the last few minutes of baking to achieve a perfectly browned finish. Enjoy your meal!

Teriyaki Baked Chicken Breasts

Teriyaki Baked Chicken Breasts offer a delicious and easy way to enjoy a flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy family dinner. The sweet and savory flavors of teriyaki sauce work beautifully with juicy chicken breasts, while the baking method guarantees a tender and moist result without the need for frying. This dish won’t only satisfy your taste buds but also keep things simple in the kitchen, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones.

Preparing Teriyaki Baked Chicken Breasts is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients, making it an accessible option for cooks of all skill levels. With the right balance of marinade and baking time, you can achieve the perfect blend of tenderness and flavor. Serve it alongside some steamed rice and veggies, or toss it into a salad for a fresh twist. You’ll find that this dish becomes a staple in your household once you get a taste of what it has to offer.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium bowl, combine the teriyaki sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger to create the marinade. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the marinade over them, making sure they’re well coated.

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). If desired, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of baking for a caramelized glaze. Serve the chicken with the sauce spooned over the top and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

For the best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight, to enhance the flavors. Keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts. If you’re using frozen chicken, be sure to thaw it completely before baking; otherwise, it may not cook evenly.

Finally, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juices. Enjoy your delightful Teriyaki Baked Chicken Breasts!

Spicy Cajun Baked Chicken

If you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine, consider preparing Spicy Cajun Baked Chicken. This dish isn’t only packed with flavor but is also incredibly easy to make. The blend of Cajun spices adds a delightful kick that balances well with the juicy chicken.

Whether you’re serving this at a family gathering, a cozy dinner for two, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe will surely impress.

Baked chicken can often be bland, but the robust flavors in this recipe will bring excitement to your palate. The secret lies in the Cajun seasoning, which can be made from scratch or purchased pre-made.

The preparation is straightforward, and by baking the chicken, you’ll guarantee it remains moist and tender while enjoying a slight crisp on the outside.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Rub the chicken thighs with olive oil and then coat them thoroughly with the combined Cajun seasoning, garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper.

Arrange the seasoned chicken in a baking dish, skin-side up, and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the skin is beautifully golden and crispy.

For the best results, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving; this helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meat moist and tender.

Feel free to pair your spicy Cajun baked chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a revitalizing salad to balance the heat. Additionally, if you prefer an even deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the spice mixture for a few hours or overnight.

Baked Chicken With Garlic and Rosemary

Baked chicken with garlic and rosemary is a classic dish that brings together the comforting flavors of tender chicken and aromatic herbs. The combination of garlic’s pungent richness and rosemary’s earthy, pine-like notes creates a mouthwatering experience that fills your kitchen with a delightful aroma as it bakes.

This dish isn’t only simple to prepare but also allows for customization based on your taste preferences—add in some vegetables or adjust the amounts of garlic and rosemary for a personalized touch.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility; it can serve as a perfect weeknight meal or a beautiful centerpiece for a special occasion. Pair it with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this baked chicken with garlic and rosemary is sure to impress while being easy to make.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of fresh rosemary, chopped
• 4 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, mix together the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create a marinade. Coat the chicken thighs thoroughly with the mixture, ensuring the skin and meat are well covered.

Place the chicken skin-side up on a baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is golden brown and crispy.

To enhance the flavor of the baked chicken, marinating it for at least an hour or, ideally, overnight will allow the garlic and rosemary to penetrate deeply into the meat. Additionally, you might consider adding sliced vegetables such as potatoes or carrots to the baking sheet to roast alongside the chicken, utilizing the delicious juices that will accumulate during cooking.

This way, you’ll have a complete, delicious meal all in one pan!

Margherita Baked Chicken

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dinner that’s both satisfying and full of flavor, Margherita Baked Chicken is a perfect choice. This recipe combines the classic flavors of the traditional Margherita pizza—fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella cheese—with tender, juicy chicken breasts. The result is a dish that’s vibrant, colorful, and sure to impress family and friends.

Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, which means less time spent on cleanup!

This Margherita Baked Chicken isn’t only stunning to serve but also wholesome and nutritious. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. As the chicken bakes, it absorbs the delicious flavors of the tomatoes and herbs, making each bite a delightful experience.

Let’s get started!

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, diced
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large baking dish, drizzle olive oil and place the chicken breasts inside. Season the chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken, and then evenly distribute the diced mozzarella and chopped basil over the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the mozzarella is melted and bubbly.

For an added touch of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Italian herbs for a few hours before baking. This helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with extra flavor.

Additionally, feel free to customize the dish by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the amount of cheese and basil according to your personal taste. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Baked Chicken With Spinach and Feta

Baked Chicken with Spinach and Feta is a delicious and healthy dish that combines the savory flavors of chicken with nutrient-dense spinach and creamy feta cheese. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, yet elegant enough to serve at a dinner party.

The contrasting textures of tender chicken, succulent spinach, and crumbly feta cheese blend together harmoniously, creating a satisfying meal that’s rich in flavor but light on calories.

Preparing this dish is simple and requires minimal effort, making it an excellent choice for both novice cooks and experienced chefs. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can whip up a tasty and nutritious dinner that will impress your family and friends.

If you love Mediterranean-inspired flavors and are on the lookout for a new comfort meal, this Baked Chicken with Spinach and Feta should definitely be on your menu.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish)

Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. In a bowl, mix the chopped spinach, crumbled feta, minced garlic, and oregano.

Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and evenly distribute the spinach mixture on top of each breast. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Garnish with fresh lemon slices before serving.

For best results, guarantee the chicken breasts are of uniform thickness, as this helps them cook evenly. You can also experiment with additional spices or herbs like basil or thyme to personalize the flavor.

If you prefer a crispy topping, consider broiling for the last few minutes of cooking. Serve this dish alongside a light salad or quinoa for a balanced meal.

Italian Baked Chicken With Peppers

Italian Baked Chicken With Peppers is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and a delightful mixture of Italian spices. This recipe isn’t only easy to prepare, but it also fills your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma that will have everyone enthusiastic to dig in.

The combination of juicy chicken and sweet, sautéed peppers creates a symphony of flavors that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. To elevate the dish, you can serve it over a bed of rice, pasta, or alongside crispy garlic bread to soak up the delicious juices.

With the fresh taste of basil and the kick of garlic, this Italian Baked Chicken is sure to become a household favorite. Let’s gather our ingredients and get started!

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 bell peppers (red and yellow), sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large baking dish, combine the sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic, drizzling with olive oil and seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Lay the chicken breasts on top of the vegetables, pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

For best results, verify that the chicken is evenly coated with marinara sauce for maximum flavor infusion. You can also experiment with different types of peppers for varying levels of sweetness or heat. Using fresh herbs instead of dried can elevate the dish, and letting the chicken marinate in the sauce for a few hours prior to baking will infuse even more flavor.

Enjoy this comforting and delicious meal with your family and friends!

Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Baked BBQ chicken drumsticks are a delightful and flavorful dish that can easily become a favorite for family dinners or gatherings, perfect for both casual weeknight meals and festive occasions. The crispy skin and tender meat are sure to please everyone at the table. With a zesty BBQ sauce that caramelizes perfectly as they bake, these drumsticks are incredibly easy to prepare and don’t require complex techniques—just season, coat, bake, and enjoy!

To elevate your dish, you can customize the BBQ sauce according to your family’s taste. Whether you prefer a smoky flavor, a spicy kick, or a sweet tang, using store-bought or homemade sauces can make all the difference. Pair these drumsticks with a side of coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients:

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, then toss the drumsticks in the mixture until well-coated.

Arrange the drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet, and generously brush them with your BBQ sauce. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, turning once halfway through, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy.

For best results, marinate the drumsticks in the BBQ sauce for several hours or overnight before baking to enhance the flavor. Additionally, if you prefer a glossy finish on your chicken, you can broil them for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking after they’re fully baked. Keep an eye on them during this time to prevent burning.

Finally, garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color before serving!