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No Peek Chicken

No Peek Chicken

No Peek Chicken is a simple, flavorful recipe that produces juicy, tender chicken with minimal effort. Using a covered baking method, it locks in moisture and allows seasonings to deeply infuse the meat, resulting in a perfectly satisfying dish ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Main Ingredients

  • Bone-in chicken pieces (thighs or breasts), about 4-6 pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 34 garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or parsley), about 2 tablespoons chopped
  • Salt, to taste (about 1 to 1½ teaspoons)
  • Black pepper, to taste (about ½ teaspoon)
  • 45 lemon slices
  • ¼ cup chicken broth or water
  • Aluminum foil or an oven-safe lid for covering

Optional Variations

  • Chili flakes or smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon (for spicy twist)
  • Basil or oregano, 2 tablespoons (as herb alternatives)
  • Vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers, cut into evenly sized pieces (amount as desired)
  • Coconut oil, 1 tablespoon (for dairy-free glaze alternative)
  • Reduced-salt chicken broth (if preferred)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Pat the chicken pieces dry thoroughly using paper towels to help olive oil and seasonings adhere better. Finely chop garlic cloves, prepare fresh herbs by chopping them finely, and slice lemons into thin rounds to have all ingredients ready.
  2. Season the Chicken: Rub olive oil all over each chicken piece generously. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and your choice of fresh herbs evenly on the chicken. Tuck chopped garlic and lemon slices under and around the chicken pieces for maximum flavor infusion.
  3. Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer inside a baking dish or ovenproof pan. Pour in about ¼ cup of chicken broth or water to create steam that will keep the chicken moist during cooking. Optionally, add vegetables around the chicken if using.
  4. Cover and Cook: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil or an oven-safe lid, ensuring a good seal to trap steam. Place in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 35 to 45 minutes, adjusting time based on the size and cut of the chicken.
  5. Finish with a Quick Broil: Remove the cover and switch the oven to broil. Broil the chicken for 3 to 5 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Notes

  • Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure crispy skin after broiling.
  • Seal the baking dish tightly to trap steam which keeps the chicken moist.
  • Bone-in chicken pieces retain juiciness and flavor better than boneless cuts.
  • Check internal temperature – chicken is done at 165°F (74°C).
  • Let chicken rest loosely covered after cooking to allow juices to redistribute.

Nutrition

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