Golden Corral Baked Chicken Copycat Recipe
This Golden Corral-inspired baked chicken is juicy, tender, and packed with flavor! Seasoned with savory spices and baked until perfectly golden, this easy oven-baked chicken is perfect for a weeknight dinner or family meal.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional, for a little spice
- 1 tbsp lemon juice for brightness
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat chicken dry with a paper towel and place in a baking dish.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
- In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and cayenne pepper.
- Rub chicken with olive oil or melted butter, then coat evenly with the seasoning mix.
- Drizzle lemon juice over the chicken for extra flavor.
Step 3: Bake Until Golden
- Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, until skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or cornbread for a full meal.
Notes
Want extra crispy skin? Pat the chicken dry before seasoning and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 35 minutes.
For a juicy version, cover with foil for the first 20 minutes, then uncover to crisp up.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
For a juicy version, cover with foil for the first 20 minutes, then uncover to crisp up.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.