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Chicken on the Bone Recipe - Juicy, Flavorful, and Easy

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2.5 to 3 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (thighs and drumsticks work best)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
  • 1 lemon (zest and juice)
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 1 small onion, sliced
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional, for finishing)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Dry skin equals crisp skin. Set aside while you mix the seasoning.
  2. Make the seasoning blend. In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme. Zest the lemon and add the zest to the blend.
  3. Season generously. Rub the chicken with olive oil, then coat it on all sides with the seasoning blend. Use your hands to get under the skin where possible for extra flavor.
  4. Preheat and arrange. Heat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the sliced onion and smashed garlic in a baking dish or oven-safe skillet. Lay the chicken on top, skin side up. Pour the chicken broth into the pan (not over the chicken) to create steam and a simple pan sauce.
  5. Roast to crisp and juicy. Bake for 35–45 minutes, depending on piece size. The skin should be golden and the juices run clear. The internal temperature at the thickest part should reach 165°F (74°C).
  6. Finish with lemon and butter. Remove the chicken from the oven. Squeeze the lemon juice over the top. Add small bits of butter to the hot pan juices and swirl to melt for a quick, rich sauce.
  7. Rest and serve. Let the chicken rest 5 minutes. Spoon some pan juices over the top, sprinkle with parsley, and serve with rice, potatoes, or a simple salad.