Name: Classic Oven-Baked Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 to 4 pounds whole chicken, cut into 6 to 8 pieces, bone-in and skin-on (4 drumsticks, 2 bone-in chicken thighs, 2 bone-in chicken breasts); Olive oil or cooking spray, for greasing; ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste; ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 78 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that’s simple, comforting, and packed with smoky, savory flavor, this Classic Oven-Baked Chicken Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Tender, juicy chicken coated in a fragrant blend of smoked paprika, garlic, and herbs gets perfectly roasted to marvelously crispy skin perfection every single time. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, totally effortless to prepare, yet impressive enough for any weeknight dinner or casual gathering. Once you try this recipe, you’ll see why it’s a timeless favorite in kitchens everywhere.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Four pieces of raw chicken with skin are placed inside a white bowl. The chicken pieces are sprinkled with a mix of spices that look red, black, and green, creating a colorful speckled texture on the pale surface of the chicken. The bowl has some light yellow oil at the bottom, giving a slight shine to the chicken. The background shows a white marbled surface that adds a soft contrast. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward but essential for capturing the savory depth and beautiful texture that make this chicken so crave-worthy. From the simple seasoning mix to the juicy bone-in chicken pieces, every element plays a key role.

Chicken pieces (3 to 4 pounds): Bone-in and skin-on cuts like drumsticks, thighs, and breasts provide maximum flavor and moisture.
Olive oil or cooking spray: Helps create that crispy golden skin and keeps the chicken from sticking to the pan.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the natural chicken flavors perfectly.
Freshly ground black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds just the right hint of warmth and spice.
Smoked paprika (½ teaspoon): Brings a luscious smoky flavor and vibrant color that makes the chicken irresistible.
Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Gives a subtle, robust aroma that layers beautifully with other spices.
Onion powder (½ teaspoon): Adds gentle sweetness and depth to the seasoning.
Dried thyme (½ teaspoon): Imparts a gentle herbaceous note that balances the bolder spices.
Dried oregano (½ teaspoon): Adds an earthy, Mediterranean touch to round out the flavor profile.
Chopped fresh parsley: For a fresh, vibrant garnish that brightens the whole dish.

How to Make Classic Oven-Baked Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400˚F so it’s hot and ready to roast the chicken to golden perfection. Take the chicken out of the refrigerator about 20 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature, which helps it cook more evenly. Pat the pieces dry with paper towels, then lightly grease your baking sheet or dish to prevent sticking and encourage crispiness.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Brush or spray the chicken pieces with olive oil or cooking spray. This not only helps the seasoning stick but will create a blissfully crispy skin. In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano. Sprinkle this seasoning mix evenly over each chicken piece, rubbing it all over for full flavor coverage.

Step 3: Arrange and Roast

Lay the seasoned chicken skin-side up on the baking dish. Giving each piece some breathing room helps the skin crisp up beautifully rather than steaming. Pop the chicken into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30 minutes.

Step 4: Lower the Heat and Continue Cooking

After 30 minutes, lower the oven temperature to 350˚F and cook for an additional 10 to 20 minutes. Use an Instant Read Meat Thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165˚F, guaranteeing juicy, safely cooked chicken. For an extra crunch, place the chicken under the broiler for the last 3 to 5 minutes—just watch closely to avoid burning.

Step 5: Rest and Garnish

Once done, transfer the chicken to a serving plate and tent it loosely with foil. Letting it rest for 8 to 10 minutes seals in the juices, so every bite is moist and flavorful. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness before serving.

How to Serve Classic Oven-Baked Chicken Recipe

A close-up view of four cooked chicken pieces placed inside a white bowl. There are two drumsticks and two thighs, all with a golden brown skin and a light sprinkling of black pepper, dried herbs, and spices across their surfaces. Juices and seasoning oils pool slightly at the bottom of the bowl, adding a glossy texture to the meat. The white marbled surface under the bowl sets a clean, simple background. The image captures the warm, crispy skin texture of the chicken, highlighting the contrast between the browned top layers and the lighter undersides. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley is classic and simple, but you can also add lemon wedges for a zesty brightness. Thinly sliced green onions or a light drizzle of garlic butter can elevate the dish and make it feel special.

Side Dishes

This chicken pairs beautifully with something light and fresh like a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. For heartier options, creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or buttery garlic bread provide comforting balance to the smoky flavors of the chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this classic oven-baked chicken recipe on a large platter surrounded by colorful roasted veggies or fresh herbs for a wow-worthy centerpiece. You can also shred the leftover chicken into salads, sandwiches, or tacos for delicious next-day meals.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, store any leftover chicken pieces in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 to 4 days, making weeknight dinners a snap when you’re short on time.

Freezing

To freeze, tightly wrap individual chicken portions in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen cooked chicken will keep its quality for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken gently in a 300˚F oven to avoid drying it out. Covering it loosely with foil will help retain moisture. Alternatively, microwaving on medium power in short bursts with a splash of water can quickly bring leftovers back to life.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Boneless chicken will work, but bone-in pieces retain moisture better and tend to be juicier in the oven. If you use boneless, keep a close eye during cooking as the timing may be shorter.

Is smoked paprika necessary?

Smoked paprika adds a wonderful smoky depth and beautiful color, making it a key part of this classic oven-baked chicken recipe’s flavor profile. If you don’t have it, regular paprika can be used, but the smokiness will be milder.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The safest and most precise method is to use an Instant Read Meat Thermometer. Chicken is done once it reaches an internal temperature of 165˚F, ensuring it is juicy and safe to eat.

Can I marinate the chicken before baking?

Absolutely! While this recipe relies on a dry rub, marinating the chicken in olive oil and herbs for a couple of hours or overnight can add extra flavor and tenderness if you have the time.

What can I do to make the skin extra crispy?

Pat the chicken completely dry before seasoning and use a light coat of oil. Finishing under the broiler for a few minutes at the end of cooking crisps the skin up beautifully without drying the meat.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so satisfying about a perfectly roasted piece of chicken that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, especially when it’s infused with smoky, herby goodness. This Classic Oven-Baked Chicken Recipe is a no-fuss, soul-warming dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. I encourage you to give it a try, savor every bite, and watch how quickly it becomes a favorite for family and friends alike.