Ultimate Golden Corral Baked Chicken Recipe: Crispy & Juicy
Crispy & Juicy Golden Corral Baked Chicken Ready in 45 Minutes
Recreate the iconic Golden Corral baked chicken, crafted by Oliver & Natalia with over 15 years of culinary expertise, for a healthier home meal.
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Why Golden Corral Baked Chicken is a Fan Favorite
The copycat Golden Corral chicken is beloved for its crispy exterior and juicy, tender interior, a staple at Golden Corral buffets that’s now easy to recreate at home. Baking at 375°F ensures even cooking and moisture retention, as highlighted by Serious Eats. This recipe combines a savory blend of spices with fresh ingredients, offering a healthier alternative to fried chicken. The optional tropical mango-lime marinade adds a unique *Mangoes and Palm Trees* flair, making it a standout for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Pair with a fresh salad or explore more healthy options in our healthy meal plans.
Love baked dishes? Check out our baked chicken recipes or try the flavorful Chicken Divan for another crowd-pleasing dish!
Complete Golden Corral Baked Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | Chicken breasts | Boneless, skinless, trimmed |
| 1/2 cup | Olive oil | Extra virgin, for marinade |
| 1/4 cup | Lemon juice | Freshly squeezed |
| 4 cloves | Garlic | Minced |
| 1 tbsp | Dried thyme | Or 2 tbsp fresh thyme |
| 1 tbsp | Dried rosemary | Or 2 tbsp fresh rosemary |
| 1 tsp | Salt | Kosher or sea salt |
| 1 tsp | Black pepper | Freshly ground |
| 1 tsp | Paprika | Smoked or sweet, for color |
| 1 tsp | Garlic powder | – |
| 1 tsp | Onion powder | – |
| 1 | Lemon | Sliced thinly |
| 1 | Onion | Sliced into rings |
| 2 tbsp | Fresh parsley | Chopped, for garnish |
Optional Tropical Marinade Add-ins
| Quantity | Ingredient | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| 1/4 cup | Mango juice | For tropical sweetness |
| 2 tbsp | Lime juice | Freshly squeezed, for zest |
| 2 tbsp | Fresh cilantro | Chopped, for freshness |
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup lemon juice, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp dried thyme, 1 tbsp dried rosemary, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp black pepper. For a tropical twist, add 1/4 cup mango juice, 2 tbsp lime juice, and 2 tbsp chopped cilantro. Add 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, coat thoroughly, cover, and refrigerate for 2 hours (or overnight for deeper flavor).
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Season Chicken: In a small bowl, combine 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Remove chicken from the marinade, pat dry, and rub the spice mix evenly over both sides of each breast.
- Assemble: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Arrange 1 sliced lemon and 1 sliced onion around the chicken to enhance flavor and aroma during baking.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), checked with a meat thermometer. Baste with pan juices halfway through to maintain moisture.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to lock in juices. Garnish with 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley and serve hot with sides like our Reka Bread Recipe or a Crispy Chicken Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your golden corral baked chicken recipe with these complementary sides and presentation tips for a complete dining experience:
| Pairing | Description | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Mashed Potatoes | Creamy, comforting side; try our recipes. | Recipes |
| Green Salad | Fresh, crisp contrast; pair with our Crispy Chicken Salad. | Crispy Chicken Salad |
| Garlic Bread | Buttery, savory side; explore our Reka Bread Recipe. | Reka Bread |
| Roasted Vegetables | Colorful, nutritious complement; try carrots or zucchini. | Recipes |
Present the chicken on a platter with lemon slices and parsley sprigs for a vibrant, appetizing display. Pair with a refreshing drink from our tea collection.
Nutritional Breakdown
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal | Low-calorie, supports balanced diet |
| Protein | 25g | Promotes muscle repair and growth |
| Fat | 8g | Heart-healthy fats from olive oil |
| Carbohydrates | 5g | Minimal carbs for low-carb diets |
| Vitamin B6 | High | Supports energy and brain function |
| Vitamin C | Moderate | Boosts immunity from lemon juice |
Chicken is a nutrient-dense protein source; learn more at Healthline.
Recipe Variations
Spicy Version
Add 1 tsp cayenne pepper or 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes to the spice rub for a fiery kick that complements the crispy crust, perfect for spice lovers.
Tropical Herb-Infused Option
Enhance the marinade with 1/4 cup mango juice, 2 tbsp lime juice, and 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro for a tropical *Mangoes and Palm Trees* twist, inspired by our Mango Cheesecake Spring Rolls. This adds a sweet, zesty flavor to the savory chicken.
Herb-Crusted Variation
Coat the chicken with a mixture of 1/2 cup breadcrumbs and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan after seasoning for an extra-crisp, flavorful crust.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Dry Chicken
Prevent dryness by marinating for at least 2 hours (or overnight) and avoiding overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) without exceeding it, and baste with pan juices during baking.
Uneven Browning
Space chicken breasts evenly in the baking dish to allow proper heat circulation. Rotate the dish halfway through baking to ensure uniform browning, and use a broiler for 1-2 minutes at the end if a crispier top is desired.
Bland Flavor
Season generously with the spice mix, ensuring even coverage. Marinate overnight for deeper flavor penetration, and consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or fresh herbs like parsley to enhance taste.
Conclusion
The Golden Corral baked chicken recipe delivers crispy, juicy, and flavorful chicken that’s easy to recreate at home, perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep. This tropical baked chicken shines with a healthy, restaurant-quality taste and an optional mango-lime marinade for a *Mangoes and Palm Trees* twist. Tried this recipe? Share your version on X with #MangoesPalmTrees or in the comments! Explore more delicious dishes in our chicken recipes or discover healthy eating ideas in our healthy meal plans. Happy cooking!
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