Zesty Baked Chicken Recipe
Overview:
Moist and flavorful, this zesty baked chicken dish is a hit with the whole family. It’s a perfect option for a weeknight dinner, combining Southwestern U.S. flavors with a touch of Asian inspiration. The preparation is straightforward, making it an ideal recipe for busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. With a total time of just over an hour, including prep and baking, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal on the table in no time!
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 6 | Chicken breast halves |
| 3 | Mayonnaise |
| 1 | Chili powder |
| 2/3 | Seasoning salt |
| 2 1/2 | Black pepper |
| 1 | Garlic powder |
Additional Notes on Ingredients:
- Chicken Breast Halves: Ensure they are skinless and excess fat is removed, then rinse them thoroughly.
- Mayonnaise: Provides moisture and helps the seasoning adhere to the chicken.
- Chili Powder: Adds a zesty kick to the dish.
- Seasoning Salt: Enhances the flavor profile.
- Black Pepper: Adds a hint of heat and depth to the seasoning.
- Garlic Powder: Infuses the chicken with delicious garlic flavor.
Instructions:
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Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready when you’re finished with preparation.
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Prepare Chicken:
- Start by removing the skin and excess fat from the chicken breast halves, then rinse them under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
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Prepare Seasoning Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and chili powder, creating a zesty sauce.
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Coat Chicken:
- Using a brush or spoon, cover only the meaty parts of the chicken breasts with the mayonnaise and chili powder mixture. This will ensure a flavorful and moist result.
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Prepare Dry Coating:
- In a separate dish, mix together the seasoning salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to create a flavorful dry coating.
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Coat Chicken with Dry Mixture:
- Roll each chicken breast in the dry seasoning mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Be careful not to leave any uncovered spots while avoiding fingerprinting the coating to maintain a neat appearance.
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Arrange Chicken:
- Place the coated chicken breasts bone-side down in a broiling pan. This will help them cook evenly and retain moisture.
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Bake:
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, rotating the pan after 25 minutes for even cooking. This will result in juicy and tender chicken breasts with a flavorful crust.
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Serve:
- Once baked to perfection, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and delicious bite every time.
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Enjoy:
- Serve your zesty baked chicken hot and enjoy the burst of flavors with each bite. This versatile dish pairs well with a variety of side dishes, from roasted vegetables to fluffy rice or a crisp salad.
Tips and Variations:
- Asian Twist: For a unique Asian-inspired flavor, substitute the hot sauce with 2 teaspoons of light soy sauce and replace the chili powder with 2 tablespoons of freshly grated ginger.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder according to your preference for spiciness.
- Side Dish Ideas: Pair this zesty baked chicken with sides like roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh cucumber salad for a well-balanced meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 243.1
- Fat Content: 12.6g
- Saturated Fat Content: 3.5g
- Cholesterol Content: 69.6mg
- Sodium Content: 214.9mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 7.7g
- Fiber Content: 1g
- Sugar Content: 0.9g
- Protein Content: 23.7g
User Ratings:
- Aggregated Rating: 5 stars
- Review Count: 8
Conclusion:
With its simple yet flavorful combination of ingredients and easy preparation, this zesty baked chicken recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re craving classic Southwestern U.S. flavors or want to experiment with an Asian twist, this versatile dish delivers delicious results every time. Enjoy the moist and tender chicken paired with a flavorful crust, and savor the delightful blend of spices in every bite!
