Cooking grilled chicken in the oven is a simple and quick process that involves minimal preparation. This recipe is perfect for those who are looking to make a delicious and healthy meal in a short amount of time. Grilled chicken is a great source of lean protein, making it an excellent choice for anyone who is looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Ingredients Needed
The following ingredients are needed to cook grilled chicken in the oven:
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that the oven is hot enough to cook the chicken efficiently.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken to an even thickness.
Step 3: Make the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Step 4: Marinate the Chicken
Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure to coat all sides evenly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for best results, let it marinate overnight in the refrigerator.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Tips for Making the Perfect Grilled Chicken
Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind when cooking grilled chicken in the oven:
- Make sure to pound the chicken to an even thickness. This ensures that it cooks evenly and prevents it from drying out.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or let it marinate overnight for best results. This helps to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit before it is considered safe to eat.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it. This helps to keep the juices inside and results in juicier and more flavorful chicken.
Variations of Grilled Chicken in Oven
Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken
To make honey mustard grilled chicken, simply swap out the soy sauce in the recipe above for 2 tablespoons of yellow mustard and 2 tablespoons of honey mustard. All other ingredients and steps remain the same.
Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken
To make lemon pepper grilled chicken, omit the honey and Dijon mustard in the recipe above and replace it with the juice of one lemon and 1 tablespoon of lemon zest. Add 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper instead of paprika. All other ingredients and steps remain the same.
BBQ Grilled Chicken
To make BBQ grilled chicken, omit the honey and Dijon mustard in the recipe above and replace it with 1/4 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce. All other ingredients and steps remain the same.
Common Questions and Answers
Below are some common questions that people have when it comes to cooking grilled chicken in the oven:
- Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe? Yes, you can use bone-in chicken for this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure that it is cooked through.
- Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it? Yes, you can grill the chicken instead of baking it. Simply follow the same marinade recipe and grill the chicken over medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- How long does the chicken need to marinate? The chicken should marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for best results, overnight in the refrigerator.
- What is the internal temperature that the chicken needs to reach? The chicken needs to reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit before it is considered safe to eat.
Conclusion
Grilled chicken in oven is a quick, easy, and delicious way to prepare a healthy meal. Follow these simple steps and helpful tips to make the perfect grilled chicken every time. Experiment with different marinades and flavors to create your own unique and flavorful dish.
References
Grilled chicken recipe adapted from Delish.