If you’re looking for a chicken recipe that will blow your mind and have everyone at the table asking for seconds, you’ve found it! This recipe for “The Best Chicken Ever” combines a flavorful marinade, perfect seasoning, and a cooking method that ensures juicy, tender, and absolutely delicious chicken every time. Whether you’re making dinner for the family or hosting a special event, this chicken is guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive into the simple steps to create the best chicken you’ve ever tasted!
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- Olive oil (¼ cup)
- Soy sauce (¼ cup, low sodium)
- Honey (2 tbsp)
- Fresh lemon juice (2 tbsp)
- Dijon mustard (1 tbsp)
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
- Paprika (1 tsp)
- Dried oregano (1 tsp)
- Black pepper (½ tsp)
- Salt (½ tsp)
For the Chicken:
- Chicken thighs or breasts (2 lbs, bone-in or boneless, skin-on or skinless)
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish — parsley, cilantro, or rosemary)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, paprika, dried oregano, black pepper, and salt until well combined. This marinade is the secret to juicy, flavorful chicken!
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs or breasts in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but preferably 2-4 hours, to allow the flavors to fully infuse.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven or Grill
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), or preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Oven Method:
Place the marinated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes (or 20-25 minutes for boneless chicken), or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when tested with a meat thermometer. For a crispy, caramelized finish, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Grill Method:
Place the marinated chicken on the preheated grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side for boneless chicken, or 8-10 minutes per side for bone-in chicken, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the chicken pieces.
Step 5: Rest the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the oven or grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it juicy and flavorful.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve hot with your favorite sides. Enjoy “The Best Chicken Ever” — hands down, no lie!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve this chicken with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To freeze, place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Helpful Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice and good-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade.
- If using chicken breasts, consider pounding them to an even thickness for more uniform cooking.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
Ina Garten suggests using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum flavor and juiciness.
Jamie Oliver recommends letting the chicken marinate overnight for deeper flavor penetration.
Gordon Ramsay advises adding a splash of white wine or chicken broth to the pan while baking for added moisture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different cuts of chicken?
Yes, you can use any cut of chicken you like, such as thighs, drumsticks, or wings. Adjust cooking time based on the cut.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Ensure that all ingredients, such as soy sauce, are gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe with skinless chicken?
Yes, skinless chicken works great; it will just have a slightly different texture and less crispiness.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Marinating the chicken and cooking it at the right temperature helps keep it juicy. Avoid overcooking and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
What can I serve with this chicken?
Serve with rice, quinoa, steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Can I use the marinade as a sauce?
Yes, but to do so safely, bring the marinade to a boil in a saucepan for at least 5 minutes to kill any bacteria from the raw chicken.
Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?
Absolutely! Grilling adds a delicious smoky flavor. Follow the grill method instructions above.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but ensure all ingredients, like Dijon mustard, are free of dairy-based additives.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more black pepper, red pepper flakes, or a bit of hot sauce to the marinade for extra heat.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.
Enjoy “The Best Chicken Ever” — a dish that’s flavorful, juicy, and incredibly delicious every time!
