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Naked Chicken: Seriously, The Easiest (and Tastiest) Chicken Recipe Ever

Naked Chicken served with cauliflower rice on white plate
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This Naked Chicken recipe is a crispy, juicy, no-breading-required masterpiece that’s bursting with bold, smoky flavor thanks to smoked paprika and garlic. It’s quick to prepare, healthy, gluten-free, and keto-friendly — the perfect weeknight dinner that feels indulgent but is totally clean. Whether pan-fried, oven-baked, or air-fried, you’ll end up with golden chicken that delivers serious comfort-food vibes with none of the fuss.

  • Author: Julia Hartman
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Pan-frying, oven-baking, air-frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

Essentials:

  • 1½ lbs chicken tenders or chicken breasts, cut into strips

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • ¾ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

Optional Add-ins:

  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil (swap for olive oil for a tropical twist)

  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (for heat)

  • 1½ lbs boneless chicken thighs (alternative to tenders for juicier texture)

Instructions

  • Pat the Chicken Dry: Use paper towels to thoroughly pat the chicken dry — this step is essential for crispy skin.

  • Prepare the Seasoning: In a small bowl, whisk together the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

  • Coat the Chicken: Place chicken in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the chicken and toss again until every piece is evenly covered.

  • Choose Your Cooking Method:

    • Pan-Fry (Best Crust): Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

    • Oven-Baked: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

    • Air Fryer: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place chicken in the basket and cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping once.

  • Check for Doneness: Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

 

  • Rest & Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh finish if desired.

Notes

  • Substitutions: Use chicken thighs for a juicier result. For a different flavor, try coconut oil instead of olive oil.

  • Spice it up: Add cayenne pepper or your favorite spice blend like Cajun or Italian seasoning.

  • Meal Prep Tip: Make a double batch and freeze extras in airtight bags for up to 2 months.

 

  • Serving Ideas: Serve over cauliflower rice, toss into salads, or use in lettuce wraps with avocado crema.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savordelish.com/naked-chicken-recipe/