4. Baking the Chicken:
- Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The chicken should turn golden brown, and its internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
- Midway through baking, baste the chicken with the juices in the baking dish to keep it moist and flavorful.
5. Checking for Doneness:
- To ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken breast without touching bone. If it reaches 165°F (74°C), the chicken is ready.
6. Resting and Serving:
- Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or additional lemon slices for presentation if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the baked chicken with roasted vegetables, a side salad, or a grain like quinoa or couscous for a balanced meal.
- Drizzle any leftover pan juices over the chicken for added flavor.
Tips:
- For a crispy skin, you can broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.
- Experiment with different herb combinations like sage, oregano, or basil for varied flavors.
- To add more depth, consider marinating the chicken in the herb mixture for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
Enjoy your flavorful baked chicken with herbs and lemon!