Introduction
If you are looking for a straightforward, delicious chicken recipe that is sure to impress your family or guests, this baked chicken with a crispy coating is the perfect choice. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Let’s dive into the details of the ingredients and preparation!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 3 cups whole milk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose seasoning
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– ½ stick butter, melted
– ¼ cup fresh flat-leaf parsley (optional)
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 55-60 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
This recipe is not only easy to follow but also offers an excellent opportunity to experiment with different spices or garnishes. With its crispy exterior and juicy chicken, it’s bound to be a hit at any meal. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Cut each chicken breast in half to create thinner pieces.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl and pour in the whole milk. Allow them to marinate for about 20 minutes to enhance tenderness and flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Flour Mixture
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, paprika, all-purpose seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. Set this bowl aside for later use.
Step 4: Preheat the Oven
Turn on your oven and preheat it to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready for baking.
Step 5: Prepare the Baking Pan
Pour the melted butter into a 9×13-inch baking pan. Ensure that the butter covers the bottom evenly to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Dredge the Chicken
Take each chicken piece out of the milk, allowing any excess milk to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring both sides are coated liberally. Place the coated chicken in the prepared baking pan.
Step 7: Repeat the Dredging Process
Continue dredging all chicken pieces in the flour mixture and arrange them neatly in the baking pan.
Step 8: Bake the Chicken
Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. After 20 minutes, flip each piece to ensure even cooking and browning.
Step 9: Serve the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and transfer it to a serving dish. If desired, garnish with fresh flat-leaf parsley for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
Marination Time
The marination in whole milk not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the chicken moist during cooking.
Coating Tips
Ensure you coat each piece thoroughly with the flour mixture for the best texture and flavor.
Baking Tips
Keep an eye on the chicken in the last few minutes of baking to achieve the desired golden brown color.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Cook techniques
Marinating
Marinating the chicken in whole milk not only helps to tenderize the meat but also infuses it with moisture and flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Dredging
Dredging the chicken pieces in the seasoned flour mixture creates a flavorful coating that will crisp up nicely when baked, adding texture to the dish.
Baking
Baking the chicken at a high temperature ensures that the breading becomes golden and crispy while allowing the chicken to cook thoroughly without drying out.
Flipping
Flipping the chicken halfway through the baking process helps achieve even cooking and browning on both sides, resulting in a perfectly baked dish.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of milk for marinating?
Yes, you can use low-fat milk or even buttermilk if you prefer. Each will yield a slightly different flavor and texture.
What can I substitute for all-purpose seasoning?
If you don’t have all-purpose seasoning, you can create your own mixture using a combination of garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear with no pink meat.
Can I add other seasonings to the flour mixture?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with additional spices such as cayenne pepper for heat, or oregano for an herbaceous flavor.
Is it necessary to garnish with parsley?
No, garnishing with parsley is optional. It adds a pop of color and a fresh taste, but you can skip it if you prefer.
Conclusion
This recipe for oven-baked chicken results in tender, delicious pieces with a crispy, flavorful coating. The use of milk for marinating keeps the chicken moist while the seasoned flour adds the perfect crunch. Garnishing with fresh parsley not only enhances presentation but also adds a touch of freshness to the dish.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken Parmesan
Add marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese to the baked chicken for a classic Italian twist.
Buffalo Chicken Bites
After baking, toss the chicken pieces in buffalo sauce for a spicy kick.
Herb-Crusted Chicken
Incorporate dried herbs like thyme and oregano into the flour mixture for added flavor.
Chicken Quesadillas
Use the cooked chicken in quesadillas with cheese and veggies for a quick meal.
Chicken Salad
Shred the leftover baked chicken and mix it with mayo, celery, and grapes for a refreshing chicken salad.
