Ultimate Slow Baked Chicken Recipe for a Perfectly Tender and Juicy Meal
Guide or Summary：Ingredients for the Ultimate Slow Baked Chicken RecipePreparing Your ChickenSeasoning the ChickenSlow Baking the ChickenResting and Serving……
Guide or Summary：
- Ingredients for the Ultimate Slow Baked Chicken Recipe
- Preparing Your Chicken
- Seasoning the Chicken
- Slow Baking the Chicken
- Resting and Serving
When it comes to creating a meal that is both delicious and satisfying, the ultimate slow baked chicken recipe is a go-to choice. This cooking method ensures that the chicken is perfectly tender and juicy, making it a favorite for family dinners and special occasions alike. Below, we’ll dive into the detailed steps to achieve this culinary masterpiece, ensuring that your slow baked chicken recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients for the Ultimate Slow Baked Chicken Recipe
To start, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- 1 lemon, quartered
- 4 cloves of garlic, smashed
- Fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, and parsley) for garnish
Preparing Your Chicken
Begin by preheating your oven to 275°F (135°C). This low temperature is crucial for the slow baking process, allowing the chicken to cook evenly and retain its moisture.
Next, prepare the chicken by removing any giblets from the cavity. Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Drying the chicken thoroughly is essential for achieving a crispy skin.
Seasoning the Chicken
In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Rub the olive oil all over the chicken, both on the skin and inside the cavity. This helps the seasoning adhere and creates a beautiful, golden-brown crust.
Generously sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the entire chicken, making sure to cover all sides. Don’t forget to season the inside of the cavity as well. Place the quartered lemon and smashed garlic cloves inside the cavity. These aromatics will infuse the chicken with incredible flavor as it bakes.
Slow Baking the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken on a roasting rack set inside a baking dish or roasting pan. This allows air to circulate around the chicken, ensuring even cooking. If you don’t have a roasting rack, you can create a makeshift one using rolled-up balls of aluminum foil.
Insert an oven-safe meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken thigh, being careful not to touch the bone. This will help you monitor the internal temperature and ensure the chicken is cooked to perfection.
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for approximately 3 to 4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The slow baking process allows the chicken to cook gently, resulting in tender, juicy meat that falls off the bone.
Resting and Serving
Once the chicken reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for about 15-20 minutes before carving. Resting the chicken allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.
Carve the chicken into pieces and arrange them on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation. Serve your slow baked chicken recipe with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
The ultimate slow baked chicken recipe is a testament to the magic of low and slow cooking. By following these detailed steps, you’ll create a meal that is not only delicious but also impressively tender and juicy. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a simple family dinner, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite. Enjoy!