Oven-baked chicken

Delicious Oven-Baked Chicken Recipe, Oil-Free - A Light and Healthy Meal

Total Preparation Time: 1 hour
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Number of Servings: 6

Introduction

Welcome to the world of light and healthy cuisine! Today, I will reveal a simple and delicious recipe, perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends. Oven-baked chicken, prepared without oil, is a perfect choice for those who want to enjoy a savory dish while also opting for a healthier meal. This recipe is not only quick but also full of flavors and textures, thanks to the blanching and baking process. Let's get started!

Ingredients

- 3 chickens (approximately 1.2 kg each, depending on how many people are at the table)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (whole and ground, to taste)
- 2 bay leaves
- 5-6 peppercorns

Ingredient Details

Chicken is an excellent source of protein and a versatile ingredient that you can easily adapt to various dishes. Choose fresh chicken with smooth skin and no unpleasant odors. Salt and pepper are essential to highlight the meat's flavor, while bay leaves add a subtle aromatic note. If you want to personalize the recipe, you can also add other spices such as garlic or herbs.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe includes the blanching technique, which helps retain moisture in the meat, giving it a tender texture. The subsequent baking in the oven will add a delicious, golden crust, making the dish truly irresistible.

Step by Step

1. Prepare the water for blanching
Start by placing a large pot of water on the stove. Add salt, peppercorns, and bay leaves. These will flavor the water and, consequently, the chicken. Wait for the water to reach a boiling point.

2. Prepare the chicken
In the meantime, wash the chickens well under cold water, removing any impurities. Cut them on the breast to allow the flavors to penetrate and help with even cooking. It's important to be careful with the cutting so that the meat remains whole.

3. Blanch the chicken
When the water begins to boil, carefully add the chickens, being cautious not to burn yourself. Blanch them for about 10 minutes. This will help retain moisture and improve the texture of the meat.

4. Prepare for the oven
After blanching, remove the chickens from the water and place them on a baking tray. Sprinkle salt and pepper over the entire surface of the meat, then add 2 ladles of the broth in which they were blanched. This step will add moisture and flavor during baking.

5. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the tray with the chickens in the oven and let them bake for 30-45 minutes, or until they become golden and crispy. Check occasionally to ensure they do not dry out.

6. Serving
When the chicken is ready, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. You can serve it with various sides, such as sautéed potatoes or a mixed salad, for a fresh and healthy contrast.

Useful Tips

- If you want a more intense flavor, you can add crushed garlic or herbs such as rosemary or thyme to the blanching water.
- For a spicy version, add a few chili flakes to the spice mix.
- Don't forget to check the chicken during baking to ensure it doesn't dry out. You can drizzle the meat with a bit of broth from the tray to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
It is recommended to use fresh chicken for the best results, but if you have frozen chicken, make sure to fully thaw it before preparing.

2. What sides go best with it?
This oven-baked chicken pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables. A fresh salad is also an excellent choice to add color and nutrients to the meal.

3. Can I add other spices?
Of course! You can experiment with spices such as paprika, oregano, or cumin to achieve a customized flavor.

Conclusion

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to try this easy and delicious oven-baked chicken recipe. With every bite, you will enjoy a healthy dish full of flavor and aroma. Don't forget to share this recipe with your loved ones and enjoy pleasant moments together. Bon appétit!