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No Peek Chicken

No Peek Chicken

No Peek Chicken is an easy, flavorful, and juicy baked chicken recipe designed for busy weeknights. The technique involves cooking chicken sealed in a parchment or foil packet, locking in moisture and flavor without needing to open or check the dish during baking. With simple kitchen staples like olive oil, garlic, cherry tomatoes, fresh herbs, and lemon slices, this fuss-free recipe yields tender and mouthwatering results every time.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • Chicken breasts or thighs, boneless and skinless (about 4 pieces)

Oils and Seasonings

  • Olive oil (3-4 tablespoons)
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Black pepper (to taste)

Fresh Produce

  • Garlic cloves (4-6, peeled)
  • Cherry tomatoes (1 cup)
  • Lemon slices (4-6 slices)
  • Fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme, 2-3 sprigs)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients and preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken dry, then season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Arrange garlic cloves, cherry tomatoes, and lemon slices nearby, ready to add.
  2. Build Your No Peek Chicken Packet: On a large piece of parchment paper or aluminum foil, drizzle olive oil in the center. Place the chicken on top, then layer with garlic cloves, cherry tomatoes, lemon slices, and fresh herbs. Drizzle a little more olive oil over everything. Carefully fold the paper or foil to create a tight, sealed packet that won’t let steam escape during cooking.
  3. Bake Without Peeking: Place the packet on a baking sheet and slide it into the oven. Resist the urge to open it! Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, depending on your chicken’s thickness. This no peek technique helps trap moisture and flavor, guaranteeing juicy chicken every time.
  4. Serve Immediately: Remove the packet from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before carefully opening. Watch the steam rise as the aromas burst out—absolutely delightful! Plate your No Peek Chicken with its roasted tomatoes and lemon slices for a colorful, inviting meal.

Notes

  • Use fresh herbs and garlic to enhance flavor compared to dried alternatives.
  • Ensure the foil or parchment is folded tightly to trap steam during baking.
  • Keep chicken pieces in a single layer inside the packet for even cooking.
  • Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to redistribute juices.
  • Adjust cooking time for thicker cuts; cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Nutrition

Keywords: No Peek Chicken, baked chicken, juicy chicken recipe, easy chicken dinner, foil packet chicken, weeknight chicken