Description
Succulent the best chicken ever recipe delivers a mouthwatering culinary journey through tender, perfectly seasoned chicken that promises pure deliciousness. Savory flavors and simple preparation make this dish an irresistible choice you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 4 chicken breasts
Marinade Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) olive oil
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) low sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Seasonings and Herbs:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Create a harmonious marinade by whisking olive oil, soy sauce, honey, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, paprika, dried oregano, black pepper, and salt in a medium bowl until thoroughly blended.
- Transfer chicken thighs or breasts into a large zip-top bag or shallow container. Completely drench the meat with prepared marinade, ensuring uniform coverage. Seal and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 4 hours, allowing flavors to penetrate deeply.
- Heat oven to 400F (200C) or preheat grill to medium-high temperature. Prepare cooking surface with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easier cleanup.
- Oven technique: Position marinated chicken on prepared baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes (20-25 minutes for boneless cuts) until internal temperature reaches 165F (74C). For enhanced caramelization, broil 2-3 minutes, monitoring closely to prevent burning.
- Grilling method: Arrange marinated chicken on preheated grill. Cook 6-8 minutes per side for boneless pieces or 8-10 minutes per side for bone-in cuts, verifying internal temperature hits 165F (74C).
- After cooking, remove chicken and allow 5-10 minutes resting time. This crucial step helps redistribute internal juices, guaranteeing maximum tenderness and moisture.
- Optionally garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or rosemary. Serve immediately with complementary side dishes.
Notes
- Swap out honey for maple syrup or agave nectar to make the recipe vegan-friendly and accommodate different dietary needs.
- Pat chicken dry before marinating to help the marinade adhere better and create a more flavorful exterior when cooking.
- Try different herbs like thyme or basil to customize the flavor profile and keep the dish exciting for repeated meals.
- Prevent dryness by using a meat thermometer to ensure precise internal temperature, avoiding overcooking and maintaining juicy chicken texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg