Stick Raw Chicken Into a Baking Dish – Easy Baked Chicken Recipe 🍗

If you’re looking for one of the easiest chicken dinners ever, this simple baked chicken recipe is perfect. Just place raw chicken into a baking dish, season it well, and bake it in the oven until tender and juicy. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal without the hassle.

As the chicken bakes, the seasonings soak in and the juices create a delicious natural sauce. Pair it with vegetables, potatoes, or rice for a complete and satisfying dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super simple preparation
Uses basic pantry ingredients
Juicy, tender baked chicken
Perfect for quick family dinners
Easy to customize with your favorite seasonings

Ingredients

4–6 chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or breasts)
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ cup chicken broth (optional for extra moisture)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Chicken

Place the raw chicken pieces in a greased baking dish in a single layer.

3. Season the Chicken

Drizzle olive oil or melted butter over the chicken. Sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning evenly over the top.

4. Add Broth (Optional)

Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the dish to help keep the chicken moist while baking.

5. Bake

Bake uncovered for 40–50 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

6. Serve

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for the Best Baked Chicken

✔ Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to help the skin crisp.
✔ Add sliced potatoes, carrots, or onions around the chicken for a one-pan meal.
✔ For crispier skin, bake uncovered and increase the temperature to 400°F during the last 10 minutes.
✔ Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.

What to Serve With Baked Chicken

This easy baked chicken pairs well with:

Mashed potatoes
Steamed vegetables
Rice or quinoa
Garden salad
Garlic bread

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave until heated through.

Final Thoughts

This simple baked chicken in a baking dish recipe proves that delicious dinners don’t need to be complicated. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a juicy, flavorful chicken meal the whole family will enjoy.