If you want to make chicken that is crispy outside and juicy inside, you are not alone. Many home cooks struggle with dry chicken or soggy skin. The good news? It doesn’t have to be hard. You just need to know the right baking time and technique. In this article, we’ll break it down in simple steps.

## Why Chicken Dries Out

Chicken breast especially can dry out fast. It’s lean, meaning it has less fat than thighs. Fat keeps meat moist. If you overcook it, the juices escape and the meat becomes dry and tough. That’s why timing is so important.

## What Temperature to Bake Chicken

The oven temperature affects how crispy the outside gets and how juicy the inside stays. Here are the most common options:

 

* **350°F (177°C):** Gentle heat. Takes longer but less risk of drying out.

* **375°F (190°C):** Balanced option. Juicy inside with light crisp.

* **400°F (204°C):** Great for crisping up the outside.

* **425°F (218°C):** Perfect for crispy skin, but watch closely.

 

Higher temperatures give you a crispy outside. But timing is key to keeping the inside juicy.

 

## How Long to Bake Chicken

Let’s get to the heart of the question: **How long to bake chicken** for that perfect balance?

### Chicken Breast (Boneless, Skinless)

* **At 350°F:** 25 to 30 minutes

* **At 375°F:** 20 to 25 minutes

* **At 400°F:** 18 to 22 minutes

* **At 425°F:** 15 to 20 minutes

**Tips:**

* Pound the breast evenly for uniform cooking.

* Use foil to tent it if browning too fast.

### Chicken Thighs (Bone-in, Skin-on)

* **At 375°F:** 35 to 45 minutes

* **At 400°F:** 30 to 40 minutes

* **At 425°F:** 25 to 35 minutes

**Tips:**

* Skin-on thighs get very crispy at higher temps.

* Thighs stay juicy thanks to more fat.

### Chicken Drumsticks

* **At 400°F:** 35 to 45 minutes

* **At 425°F:** 30 to 40 minutes

### Whole Chicken

* **At 375°F:** 20 minutes per pound

* Always check internal temperature.

## Internal Temperature Matters Most

To be safe and juicy, chicken must reach an internal temperature of **165°F (74°C)**. Use a meat thermometer to check:

* Insert into the thickest part (not touching bone)

* Pull chicken out at 160°F and let rest

* It will rise to 165°F as it rests

## Resting Time is Key

Let the chicken rest for **5 to 10 minutes** after baking. This helps juices move back into the meat. If you cut it too soon, juices spill out and it becomes dry.

## How to Get Crispy Outside

Now, let’s talk crispy skin or crust. Here’s how to do it:

### Tips for Crispy Outside

 

1. **Pat chicken dry** with paper towels before seasoning.
2. **Use oil or butter.** Coat the skin or surface lightly.
3. **Don’t overcrowd the pan.** Airflow helps crisping.
4. **Use a wire rack** on a baking sheet for air circulation.
5. **Broil for the last 2-3 minutes** if needed.
6. **Preheat the oven fully** before baking.

### Best Coatings for Crunch

* Panko breadcrumbs

* Crushed cornflakes

* Parmesan cheese

* Light flour coating

 

## Simple Crispy Juicy Chicken Recipe

 

Here’s an easy recipe that gives you that **crispy outside, juicy inside** chicken.

 

### Ingredients:

* 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts

* 2 tbsp olive oil

* 1 tsp garlic powder

* 1 tsp smoked paprika

* Salt and pepper to taste

* Optional: Panko or grated parmesan

 

### Instructions:

 

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Pat chicken dry with paper towels.
3. Mix oil and seasonings in a small bowl.
4. Rub mixture on both sides of chicken.
5. Optional: coat with panko or cheese.
6. Place on wire rack over baking sheet.
7. Bake 20 minutes or until internal temp hits 160°F.
8. Rest 5-10 minutes before slicing.

 

## What to Serve With Baked Chicken

Crispy juicy chicken goes with many sides:

* Roasted vegetables

* Mashed potatoes

* Rice or quinoa

* Corn pudding (see our secret recipe!)

* Green salad

## Common Mistakes to Avoid

* **Overbaking:** Use a timer and thermometer.

* **Skipping rest time:** Causes dryness.

* **Using wet chicken:** Prevents crisping.

* **Low oven temp only:** Won’t crisp well.

* **No oil:** Dry outside, not crispy.

 

## Final Thoughts

Knowing **how long to bake chicken** makes all the difference. With the right temperature, timing, and tricks, you can make chicken that’s **crispy outside and juicy inside** every time. Try different cuts, experiment with coatings, and use a thermometer. Simple steps, tasty results.

Now go preheat your oven and get cooking!