easy baked chicken meals for family dinner nights that are kid friendly
Family dinner nights are a cherished tradition in many households. However, finding meals that are both easy to prepare and appealing to kids can be quite the challenge. Baked chicken meals are a fantastic solution, as they are versatile, healthy, and can be prepared in various ways to suit even the pickiest of eaters. In this article, we will explore several easy baked chicken recipes that are sure to delight your family. With simple preparation and delicious flavors, these meals are perfect for weeknight dinners.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup baby carrots
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup baby potatoes, halved
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are coated well.
- In a large baking dish, arrange the baby carrots, broccoli florets, and halved baby potatoes.
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the vegetables.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the vegetables are tender.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
This easy baked chicken meal is not only simple to prepare but also allows for customization. You can swap out the vegetables for whatever your family loves best, whether it’s green beans, bell peppers, or zucchini. The key is to ensure the chicken remains juicy and flavorful while cooking. The combination of spices gives the chicken a delightful crust that kids will love.
More Easy Baked Chicken Meals
1. Honey Garlic Baked Chicken
This dish features a sweet and savory glaze that will have your kids begging for seconds. Simply mix honey, soy sauce, and garlic, pour it over chicken breasts, and bake until caramelized. Serve with rice for a complete meal.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix the honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ground ginger.
- Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the honey garlic mixture over them.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top before serving, if desired.
The honey garlic glaze adds a touch of sweetness that pairs perfectly with steamed broccoli or a refreshing salad. It’s a great way to introduce kids to new flavors without overwhelming their palates.
2. Parmesan Crusted Baked Chicken
For cheese lovers, this parmesan crusted chicken is a must-try. With a crispy cheese coating, this dish is bound to become a family favorite. Simply coat chicken breasts in a mixture of breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese, then bake until golden brown.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken breast in the beaten egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is golden and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Serve this dish with a side of spaghetti or a fresh garden salad. The crispy texture will make it an instant hit at the dinner table!
3. Italian Herb Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Chicken drumsticks are not only budget-friendly but also a hit among kids. This recipe uses a blend of Italian herbs to create a flavorful, crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy. Pair it with some roasted veggies for a wholesome meal.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Add the drumsticks and toss to coat them in the seasoning mixture.
- Place the drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with foil.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
These Italian herb drumsticks are perfect for dipping in your favorite sauces, making them a fun dinner option for kids.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use boneless chicken for these recipes?
Yes, boneless chicken can be used in most of these recipes. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they are cooked through.
2. What sides pair well with baked chicken?
Some great sides include mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, rice, or even a simple salad. Experiment with what your family enjoys most!
3. How can I store leftovers?
Leftover baked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
4. Are these meals suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! These baked chicken meals can be prepped in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer for easy weeknight dinners.
With these easy baked chicken meals, family dinner nights can be a delightful experience. Not only are these recipes kid-friendly, but they also allow parents to enjoy cooking without spending hours in the kitchen. The next time you’re planning your weekly meals, consider one of these delicious baked chicken options. Your family will thank you!
