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 and a golden, crispy crust. This healthier alternative to fried chicken is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, requiring only simple ingredients and no advanced skills. With a tropical marinade twist, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make. Let’s get cooking!
Why Golden Corral Baked Chicken is a Fan Favorite
The copycat Golden Corral chicken is loved for its crispy exterior and juicy interior, making it a staple at Golden Corral buffets. As noted by Serious Eats, baking at 375°F ensures even cooking and moisture retention. This recipe’s blend of spices and fresh produce, with an optional tropical mango-lime marinade, elevates it for *Mangoes and Palm Trees* fans. Perfect for weeknights or gatherings, it’s a healthier choice, as seen in our healthy meal plans. Pair with a salad for a complete meal.
Love baked dishes? Explore our baked chicken recipes or try the flavorful Chicken Divan!
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 |
| 1/2 cup | Olive oil | For marinade |
| 1/4 cup | Lemon juice | Freshly squeezed |
| 4 cloves | Garlic | Minced |
| 1 tbsp | Dried thyme | - |
| 1 tbsp | Dried rosemary | - |
| 1 tsp | Salt | - |
| 1 tsp | Black pepper | - |
| 1 tsp | Paprika | - |
| 1 tsp | Garlic powder | - |
| 1 tsp | Onion powder | - |
| 1 | Lemon | Sliced |
| 1 | Onion | Sliced |
| 2 tbsp | Fresh parsley | Chopped, for garnish |
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, whisk 1/2 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup lemon juice, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp thyme, 1 tbsp rosemary, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper. Add 4 chicken breasts, coat well, cover, and refrigerate for 2 hours (or overnight).
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
- Season Chicken: Mix 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper. Rub over marinated chicken.
- Assemble: Place chicken in the baking dish. Arrange lemon and onion slices around it.
- Bake: Bake 30-35 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Check with a meat thermometer.
- Rest and Serve: Let chicken rest 5 minutes. Garnish with 2 tbsp parsley and serve with bread or a salad.
Nutritional Breakdown
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal | Low-calorie energy source |
| Protein | 25g | Supports muscle repair |
| Fat | 8g | Heart-healthy fats (from olive oil) |
| Carbohydrates | 5g | Minimal carbs for balanced diet |
| Vitamin B6 | High | Boosts energy and brain function |
Learn more about chicken’s benefits at Healthline.
Serving Suggestions
| Pairing | Description | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Mashed Potatoes | Creamy complement; try our recipes. | Recipes |
| Green Salad | Fresh contrast; pair with our Crispy Chicken Salad. | Crispy Chicken Salad |
| Garlic Bread | Buttery side; explore our Reka Bread Recipe. | Reka Bread |
Recipe Variations
Spicy Version
Add 1 tsp cayenne pepper to the spice rub for a fiery kick.
Tropical Herb-Infused Option
Marinate with mango juice, lime, and cilantro for a *Mangoes and Palm Trees* twist, as seen in our Mango Cheesecake Spring Rolls.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Dry Chicken
Marinate longer and avoid overcooking; check for 165°F internal temperature.
Uneven Browning
Space chicken evenly in the dish and rotate halfway through baking.
Bland Flavor
Season generously with the spice mix and marinate overnight.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do You Make Golden Corral Baked Chicken?
Marinate chicken, season with spices, and bake at 375°F for 30-35 minutes.
What Ingredients Are Needed?
Chicken breasts, olive oil, lemon, garlic, thyme, rosemary, and spices.
How Long to Bake Golden Corral Chicken?
30-35 minutes at 375°F until 165°F internally.
Can I Use Boneless Chicken?
Yes, boneless breasts work perfectly; adjust time to 30-35 minutes.
Can I Make It Gluten-Free?
The recipe is naturally gluten-free; ensure spices are certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
The Golden Corral baked chicken recipe delivers crispy, juicy flavor that’s easy to recreate at home. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this healthier dish shines with a tropical twist. Tried our recipe? Share your version in the comments or on X! Explore more chicken recipes or our healthy meal plans. Happy cooking!
