Golden Corral Baked Chicken Recipe

Recreate the iconic Golden Corral baked chicken recipe at home for a crispy, juicy, and flavorful meal.

The Golden Corral baked chicken recipe from Mangoes and Palm Trees brings restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen with tender chicken breasts and a golden, crispy crust. This copycat golden corral chicken is a healthier alternative to fried chicken, perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prep. Requiring only simple ingredients and no advanced cooking skills, it features an optional tropical mango-lime marinade for a *Mangoes and Palm Trees* twist that elevates the dish into a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into this healthy baked chicken and make your next meal unforgettable!

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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!

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Complete Golden Corral Baked Chicken Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes (plus 2 hours marinating)

Serves: 4

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

1. 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, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 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).
2. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Do You Make Golden Corral Baked Chicken?

Marinate 4 chicken breasts in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, season with a spice mix, and bake at 375°F for 30-35 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

What Ingredients Are Needed?

Key ingredients include boneless, skinless chicken breasts, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, dried thyme, rosemary, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon slices, onion slices, and fresh parsley.

How Long to Bake Golden Corral Chicken?

Bake for 30-35 minutes at 375°F until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, checked with a meat thermometer.

Can I Use Boneless Chicken?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe, requiring 30-35 minutes to bake for tender, juicy results.

Can I Make It Gluten-Free?

The recipe is naturally gluten-free; ensure all spices and optional ingredients (e.g., mango juice) are certified gluten-free, as outlined in our Gluten-Free Meal Plans.

Can I Use Bone-In Chicken?

Yes, bone-in chicken breasts or thighs can be used, but increase baking time to 40-45 minutes to reach 165°F internally.

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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!