Melt-In-Your-Mouth Chicken Recipe
This Melt-In-Your-Mouth Chicken recipe uses simple ingredients, a few easy steps, and results in the most tender, flavorful chicken you’ll ever taste. It’s baked to perfection with a seasoned buttery glaze that keeps the chicken juicy and tender.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for a juicier option) – The base of this dish.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and helps to keep the chicken moist.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – For added flavor and richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – For that savory, garlicky aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder – To enhance the flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika – For a smoky depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme – Adds a savory, herby taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano – Complements the other seasonings with an earthy flavor.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste – Essential for balancing the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For cooking and preventing the chicken from sticking.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with a little olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) on a cutting board. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this will help the seasoning stick better and create a crispier texture. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. Homemade Samoas Girl Scout Cookies
Step 3: Make the Seasoning Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Mix together to form a seasoning blend.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the greased baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter over the chicken. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast. Then, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken for a rich, cheesy finish.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Place the chicken in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes (depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts). The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), or when the juices run clear.
Step 6: Rest Before Serving
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and tender.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the chicken with your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad. For an extra touch, drizzle any pan juices over the chicken before serving.
Pro Tips for the Best Melt-In-Your-Mouth Chicken
- Butter Basting: Basting the chicken with melted butter helps lock in moisture, ensuring that each bite is tender and juicy.
- Don’t Overcook: Overcooking chicken can result in dry, tough meat. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F or 75°C).
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have time, marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and your seasonings for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking.
- Use Chicken Thighs: For even juicier chicken, opt for bone-in, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. They are naturally more tender and flavorful.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Garnish the finished chicken with fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme for a burst of freshness and color.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: Pair with a light, refreshing salad like a mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, potatoes, or broccoli complement the rich flavors of the chicken.
- Rice or Pasta: Serve with a side of fluffy rice or buttered pasta to soak up the delicious pan juices.
- Garlic Bread: A slice of garlic bread is always a great side to go with this dish for a comforting meal.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 280 kcal
Protein: 36g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fats: 16g
Fiber: 0g
Conclusion
This Melt-In-Your-Mouth Chicken is the ultimate comfort food with its tender, juicy meat, rich butter and Parmesan flavor, and simple ingredients. It’s a perfect meal to serve to your family or guests, and it’s quick and easy enough for a weeknight dinner. Pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy this savory dish that’s sure to impress everyone!
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