Irresistible Pollo Al Horno Recipe: Juicy Oven-Baked Magic

Chicken lovers rejoice as this mouthwatering pollo al horno recipe promises a delightful culinary adventure.

Tender, juicy, and packed with vibrant flavors, this baked chicken dish will transport your taste buds straight to a cozy kitchen in Latin America.

Aromatic herbs and simple seasonings come together to create a meal that’s both comforting and exciting.

The secret lies in the perfect blend of spices and cooking technique that ensures every bite is succulent and memorable.

Marinating the chicken beforehand allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in a dish that’s truly irresistible.

With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can turn an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary feast.

Prepare to fall in love with this classic, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.

Spiced Baked Chicken What Makes It Special

• Whip Up Quickly: Minimal prep work makes this recipe perfect for busy home cooks who want delicious meals without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Customize Your Flavor: Easily adjust spice blend to match family preferences or dietary needs, creating a versatile dish that pleases everyone.
• Transform Boring Chicken: Turn plain chicken into a mouthwatering meal with a simple spice mixture that delivers restaurant-quality taste right at home.
• One-Dish Wonder: Simple baking method means less cleanup, making this recipe a stress-free option for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Spiced Baked Chicken Ingredient List

• Chicken: A versatile meat that provides a lean and tender base for this flavorful dish.

• Paprika, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, Black Pepper: A harmonious mix of seasonings that adds depth and warmth to the chicken.

• Olive Oil: Helps the spices adhere to the chicken and promotes even browning during roasting.

Steps for Spiced Baked Chicken

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 375°F.

Grab your chicken pieces and give them a gentle pat-down with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.

This helps create a perfectly crispy exterior.

Step 2: Create a Flavor Explosion

• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Dried thyme
• Salt
• Black pepper

Drizzle the chicken with olive oil, then generously massage the spice mixture all over the meat, ensuring every inch is covered with delicious seasoning.

Step 3: Prepare for Roasting

Transfer the beautifully seasoned chicken into a baking dish.

Choose a 7×9 casserole dish that allows the chicken to sit comfortably without overcrowding.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven.

Roast for 30-35 minutes, keeping an eye on the internal temperature.

You’re aiming for a safe and juicy 165°F at the thickest part of the chicken.

Step 5: Let the Magic Settle

Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes.

This crucial pause allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is succulent and flavorful.

Pro Tips for Flavorful Spiced Chicken

• Crush whole spices just before mixing to release maximum aromatic oils and enhance overall taste profile.
• Use chicken thighs or bone-in pieces for juicier results, which naturally retain more moisture during baking.
• Use a digital meat thermometer inserted into thickest part to ensure precise 165F internal temperature.
• Pat chicken completely dry before seasoning and place on wire rack inside baking dish to allow air circulation and achieve crisp exterior.
• Customize heat by increasing or decreasing cayenne or red pepper flakes according to personal preference without compromising overall seasoning balance.

Baked Chicken Twists to Try

• Herb-Crusted Chicken: Replace spice mix with dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
• Low-Sodium Version: Use salt-free spice blends or create a mix with garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika to reduce sodium intake.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all spices are certified gluten-free and use certified gluten-free cooking oil to accommodate gluten-sensitive diners.
• Keto-Friendly Preparation: Choose high-fat chicken cuts like thighs, increase olive oil coating, and avoid adding sugary spice blends to maintain low-carb requirements.

Serving Spiced Baked Chicken

• Dinner Party Delight: Serve this succulent chicken alongside roasted seasonal vegetables for a colorful and balanced meal that impresses guests.
• Hearty Protein Platter: Slice chicken and arrange over a bed of fluffy quinoa or couscous, drizzling any pan juices for extra flavor.
• Mediterranean Twist: Pair with a cool cucumber yogurt sauce and warm pita bread, creating a refreshing complement to the spiced chicken’s warm notes.
• Salad Topper: Chop cooled chicken and toss into a crisp green salad with cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette for a protein-packed lunch option.

Storage Tips for Spiced Baked Chicken

• – Refrigerate Leftover chicken stays fresh in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Cool completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
• – Freeze Store chicken in freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags for maximum 3 months. Wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn and maintain flavor.
• – Reheat Warm refrigerated chicken in oven at 350F for 10-15 minutes, ensuring internal temperature reaches 165F for food safety. Avoid microwave to keep meat juicy.
• – Meal Prep Slice cooled chicken and portion into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week, perfect for quick weekday meals.

FAQs

• What spices are typically used in this recipe?

Paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne for heat create a robust and flavorful spice blend that enhances the chicken’s taste.

• Can I use chicken breasts instead of whole chicken parts?

Yes, chicken breasts work perfectly. Just ensure they are similar in size for even cooking and adjust cooking time slightly to prevent drying out.

• Do I need to marinate the chicken beforehand?

No marinating is required. The direct spice coating provides excellent flavor, making this a quick and easy recipe that delivers great taste without lengthy preparation.

• How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165F at the thickest part. This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and remains juicy.

Pollo Al Horno Recipe

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4.8 from 16 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent Pollo al Horno delivers Mediterranean comfort straight from Spanish kitchens, blending aromatic herbs with tender chicken. Crispy skin and juicy meat promise a delightful meal you’ll savor with each delectable bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound (0.45 kilograms) bone-in chicken thighs or breast

Spices and Seasonings:

• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 milliliters) kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 milliliters) black pepper
• 2 teaspoons (10 milliliters) ground chile ancho or paprika
• 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) onion powder
• 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) chipotle pepper
• 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) dried coriander or parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 milliliters) red pepper flakes

Finishing Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven by heating to 375°F and thoroughly blot chicken pieces with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Create a robust spice blend in a mixing bowl, combining selected aromatic seasonings until well integrated.
3. Drizzle chicken with olive oil, ensuring complete and even coverage, then generously massage the prepared spice mixture onto all surfaces of the meat.
4. Carefully transfer the seasoned chicken into a 7×9 inch casserole dish, arranging pieces to allow uniform heat distribution.
5. Slide the dish into the preheated oven and roast for 30-35 minutes, monitoring internal temperature until it precisely reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
6. Remove chicken from oven and allow it to rest undisturbed for 5 minutes, which helps redistribute internal juices and ensures maximum tenderness before serving.

Notes

• Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option that cooks quickly and absorbs spices well.
• Try different spice blends like Cajun, Mediterranean, or Indian masala to transform the basic recipe into global-inspired dishes.
• Line the baking dish with parchment paper for easier cleanup and to prevent the chicken from sticking.
• Check chicken’s doneness by using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165F without overcooking, which can make the meat dry and tough.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Spanish

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 5 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 100 mg