ADVERTISEMENT
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s dive into the process of making this mouthwatering chicken!
1. Marinate the Chicken (The Secret to Juicy Meat)
The key to achieving perfectly juicy chicken is marinating it before cooking. This step helps to break down the proteins in the meat, making it more tender, while also infusing it with flavor. The yogurt or buttermilk in the marinade acts as a tenderizer, and the mustard adds a layer of richness.
- Combine the marinade ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the yogurt (or buttermilk), mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), garlic, and oregano (or Italian seasoning).
- Coat the chicken: Place the chicken pieces into a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Make sure the chicken is completely coated.
- Marinate: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness. The longer the chicken marinates, the more tender and flavorful it will become.
2. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Chicken
Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to get ready to cook. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), which ensures a crispy outside and tender inside.
- Pat the chicken dry: After marinating, remove the chicken from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving crispy skin. Any excess moisture will prevent the skin from crisping up properly.
- Season the chicken: Rub the chicken with olive oil (or melted butter) and season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and herbs. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly for maximum flavor.
3. Sear the Chicken for Extra Crispy Skin
Before popping the chicken in the oven, searing it in a hot pan for a couple of minutes will give the skin that crispy, golden-brown perfection that everyone craves.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat: Add the olive oil or butter and let it get hot.
- Sear the chicken skin-side down: Place the chicken, skin-side down, in the pan and let it cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. You don’t need to cook the chicken through, just get that crispy skin.
4. Finish Cooking in the Oven
Now, it’s time to finish cooking the chicken and let it reach that perfect tender texture.
- Transfer to the oven: Once the chicken is seared, transfer the pan to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes: Cook the chicken for about 25-30 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The skin should be crispy and the meat should be tender and juicy.
5. Rest the Chicken
Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it stays moist and flavorful.
Why This Method Works
So, what makes this technique so special? The secret lies in the combination of the marinade and the two-step cooking process.
- Marinating the chicken in a yogurt-based mixture makes the chicken incredibly tender and juicy while imparting delicious flavors that penetrate deep into the meat.
- Searing the chicken before baking locks in the flavor and creates that irresistible crispy skin that’s crunchy and golden.
- Finally, baking the chicken at a high temperature ensures it’s cooked through but still incredibly moist inside.
Serving Suggestions
This tasty chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, depending on your preferences:
- Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes for a hearty and healthy meal.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a perfect match for juicy chicken, especially with some gravy on top.
- Salads: A fresh green salad or coleslaw provides a light, crunchy contrast to the rich and savory chicken.
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a complete, filling meal.
Final Thoughts
This is hands-down the tastiest chicken I’ve ever eaten, and it’s all thanks to a simple technique I learned in a famous restaurant. The combination of marinating the chicken, searing it for crispy skin, and finishing it in the oven makes for an unforgettable dish that’s both juicy and flavorful. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a special occasion, this recipe will always be a hit.
So, the next time you’re looking to make chicken that’s restaurant-quality, remember this method. It’s easy, flavorful, and guaranteed to impress!
ADVERTISEMENT
