Elevate Your Dinner Game with Easy Marinated Baked Chicken!
Are you tired of the same old chicken dinners? Looking for a way to add some excitement to your meals without spending hours in the kitchen? Look no further than our Easy Marinated Baked Chicken recipe! With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a flavorful and versatile dish that’s sure to please the whole family. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Join us as we explore the world of marinated baked chicken and discover how to create a meal that’s as delicious as it is easy!
Introduction
Marinated baked chicken is a staple in many households for good reason – it’s easy to make, versatile, and packed with flavor. By marinating the chicken before baking, you can infuse it with delicious herbs, spices, and other ingredients that will take your meal to the next level. Plus, baking the chicken in the oven results in tender, juicy meat with minimal effort. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, our Easy Marinated Baked Chicken recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. So let’s dive in and learn how to make this delicious dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 packages of chicken breasts (from Sam’s Club)
- Marinade ingredients (your choice, see suggestions below)
- Assorted vegetables for roasting or stir-frying
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Marinade Options:
Choose one of the following marinades or get creative and make your own!
Honey Mustard Marinade:
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon Herb Marinade:
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Teriyaki Marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
Instructions:
- Prepare Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the ingredients for your chosen marinade until well combined.
- Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Vegetables: While the chicken is marinating, prepare your vegetables for roasting or stir-frying. Choose your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or broccoli. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread them out on a baking sheet for roasting or in a skillet for stir-frying.
- Bake Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
- Cook Vegetables: While the chicken is baking, roast or stir-fry your vegetables until they are tender and lightly browned.
- Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the sliced chicken alongside the roasted or stir-fried vegetables for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Grill Option: If you prefer, you can grill the marinated chicken instead of baking it. Simply preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until it is cooked through.
- Make it Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to your marinade for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute tofu or tempeh for the chicken for a vegetarian version of this dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts if you prefer. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are cooked through.
Q: How long should I marinate the chicken? A: The chicken should be marinated for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. For best results, marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts? A: While fresh chicken breasts are recommended for this recipe, you can use frozen chicken breasts if necessary. Thaw them completely in the refrigerator before marinating and cooking.
Q: Can I use store-bought marinade instead of making my own? A: Yes, you can use store-bought marinade if you prefer. Choose your favorite flavor and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for marinating the chicken.
Keto and Low-Carb Version:
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here’s how to adapt this recipe:
- Low-Carb Marinade: Use a marinade with minimal sugar or sweeteners, such as olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and herbs, to keep the carb count low.
- Serve with Low-Carb Vegetables: Choose low-carb vegetables such as cauliflower, broccoli, or green beans for roasting or stir-frying to keep the meal keto-friendly.
Experience the deliciousness of Easy Marinated Baked Chicken, a versatile and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its simple preparation and customizable marinades, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, Easy Marinated Baked Chicken is guaranteed to impress. So grab your ingredients, whip up a batch of your favorite marinade, and get ready to enjoy the irresistible flavors of this delicious dish!
