– 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
– 4 chicken drumsticks
– ¼ cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Creating the perfect Melt-In-Your-Mouth Baked Chicken is simple when you follow these clear steps:
1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) for optimal cooking.
2. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, minced garlic, paprika, onion powder, oregano, salt, black pepper, and Dijon mustard.
3. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs and drumsticks to the bowl, ensuring they are well coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for enhanced flavor).
4. Arrange the Chicken: Once marinated, place the chicken on a greased baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart.
5. Bake: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Baste (Optional): For extra flavor, baste the chicken with its juices halfway through cooking.
7. Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
8. Garnish: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
These steps will ensure your Melt-In-Your-Mouth Baked Chicken is packed with flavor and full of tenderness, creating a dish you’ll be proud to serve.