Some nights, you just need dinner to make itself. That’s where this “No Work” Baked Chicken comes in — a recipe so easy, you can throw it together in minutes, pop it in the oven, and walk away. It’s effortless, reliable, and delicious, making it a favorite among busy home cooks who want something tasty without spending an hour at the stove.
This isn’t your typical baked chicken. Despite requiring virtually zero effort, the flavor payoff is huge. That’s thanks to a smart blend of pantry spices, a drizzle of olive oil, and the magic of slow oven roasting. The chicken turns out juicy on the inside, perfectly golden on the outside, and full of savory goodness.
This dish is perfect for weeknights when you just don’t have it in you to cook — but still want something warm, comforting, and wholesome. You don’t even need to prep a marinade. Just season, toss in the oven, and let time do the work.
It’s also incredibly versatile. Use thighs, drumsticks, or even bone-in breasts. Add root vegetables to the pan to roast alongside the chicken for a complete meal. No separate sides or fussing needed.
Because it bakes low and slow, the chicken stays tender and juicy. And the skin? It crisps up beautifully without needing broiling or frying.
Even beginners can make this with confidence. No chopping, no fancy ingredients, no mess. Just one pan and a few basics.
This recipe is also budget-friendly. Chicken pieces, some oil, and spices — that’s all it takes. Yet the results feel like comfort food done right.
It’s great for families, meal prep, or even casual entertaining. Serve with rice, a salad, or just as-is. It reheats well, travels well, and satisfies every time.
Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Ingredients:
- 3–4 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Place chicken in a large baking dish or sheet pan.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle evenly with all the spices.
- Use your hands or tongs to toss and coat the chicken thoroughly.
- Arrange chicken skin-side up in a single layer.
- Bake uncovered for 1 hour, or until skin is golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes for extra crisp skin.
Tips:
- Add chopped carrots or potatoes to the pan for a one-dish meal.
- Use foil or parchment for easy cleanup.
- If using boneless cuts, reduce cook time by 15–20 minutes.
- Let chicken rest 5–10 minutes before serving for juicier meat.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
- Truly effortless — perfect for busy days.
- Just one pan and a handful of ingredients.
- Deliciously seasoned with a crispy finish.
- Flexible and forgiving.
- Ideal for beginners and pros alike.
This “No Work” Baked Chicken lives up to its name — minimal prep, zero hassle, and maximum comfort. With just pantry spices and the oven’s help, you’ll have perfectly juicy, flavorful chicken on the table in no time.
