affordable slow baked chicken in oven recipes for budget meals
If you’re looking for delicious meals that won’t break the bank, slow-baked chicken recipes are a fantastic choice. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also allow for a variety of flavors and ingredients that can be tailored to your personal taste. In this article, we will explore several affordable slow-baked chicken recipes that are perfect for budget meals. Whether you’re cooking for a family or just yourself, these recipes will save you time and money while delivering satisfying and flavorful dishes.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
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
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, bell peppers)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the chicken thighs with olive oil and then coat them evenly with the spice mixture.
- In a large baking dish, place the mixed vegetables evenly at the bottom.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the vegetables.
- Pour chicken broth over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring the broth covers the bottom of the dish.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
- After 1 hour, remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes to allow the chicken to brown.
- Remove from oven and let it sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Why Choose Slow Baked Chicken?
Slow baking chicken allows the meat to become incredibly tender and flavorful. The low and slow cooking process locks in moisture, making each bite juicy and delicious. Additionally, using affordable cuts like thighs or drumsticks helps keep your grocery bill low while still providing a hearty meal.
One of the best parts about these recipes is their versatility. You can easily switch up the spices or add different vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. This flexibility makes it easy to create a variety of budget-friendly meals throughout the week.
More Affordable Slow Baked Chicken Recipes
1. Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
- Place chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the honey mixture over them.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 1 hour.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes, basting the chicken halfway through.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.
2. Italian Herb Baked Chicken
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Place chicken in a baking dish and scatter cherry tomatoes around it.
- Bake for 1 hour, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Sprinkle parmesan cheese on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Tips for Baking Chicken
To ensure your chicken turns out perfectly, it’s essential to use a meat thermometer. This tool helps you check the internal temperature without cutting into the meat, which can release juices and lead to dryness.
Additionally, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute, leading to a more moist and flavorful dish. Pair these recipes with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken for slow baking?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. If using frozen chicken, increase the cooking time to ensure it reaches the proper internal temperature.
2. What vegetables are best for baking with chicken?
Root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and sweet potatoes work well. You can also add bell peppers, zucchini, and onions for added flavor and nutrition.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage, up to 3 months.
4. Can I make these recipes in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Simply place the chicken and vegetables in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
With these affordable slow-baked chicken recipes, you can enjoy delicious, budget-friendly meals that your whole family will love. Experiment with different spices and vegetables to find your favorite combinations, and make meal prep easier than ever!
