Mom Mom’s Secret Good Seasons Oven Baked Chicken

The scent alone could transport me back to childhood in an instant. It was always the same – that unmistakable aroma wafting from Mom Mom’s kitchen, a promise of crispy, flavorful chicken that somehow tasted even better surrounded by family. I remember sneaking pieces off the pan when she wasn’t looking, a guilty pleasure I’d repeat at every holiday gathering. Now, carrying on the tradition myself, I’m sharing her secret recipe, a testament to the simple magic of good food and good company.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 6
• Yield: 12 pieces of chicken
• Dietary Type: Not Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 12 pieces chicken, skinless (mix of legs and bone-in thighs)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• ⅔ cup Bisquick
• 1 (⅔ ounce) package Good Seasons Italian dressing, and recipe mix (this is a 0.7 oz pkg)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon pepper

Equipment Needed

• Cookie sheet
• Aluminum foil
• Oven

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This high heat is essential for achieving that signature crispy coating.

2. Prepare your baking sheet. Line a cookie sheet with aluminum foil. This will prevent the chicken from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

3. Dice the 1 tablespoon of butter into small pieces and scatter them evenly over the aluminum foil. The melted butter will help create a golden-brown, flavorful base for the chicken.

4. Place the prepared cookie sheet with the diced butter into the preheating oven. Allow the butter to melt completely, but watch closely to prevent it from burning. Once melted, carefully remove the sheet from the oven.

5. Tilt the cookie sheet to evenly coat the foil with the melted butter. This step ensures that the entire surface is lightly greased, preventing the chicken from sticking.

6. In a bowl, combine the dry ingredients. Stir together the ⅔ cup Bisquick, approximately ¾ of the packet of Good Seasons Italian dressing mix (reserve the remaining ¼), 1 teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. This mixture will form the flavorful coating for the chicken.

7. Sprinkle the skinless chicken pieces with the reserved ¼ of the Good Seasons Italian dressing mix. This adds a boost of flavor directly to the chicken and helps the coating adhere better.

8. Coat each piece of chicken thoroughly with the Bisquick mixture. Press the mixture onto the chicken to ensure a good coating. Make sure every nook and cranny is covered for maximum flavor and crispiness.

9. Arrange the coated chicken pieces on the buttered foil-lined cookie sheet. Be sure to leave some space between the pieces to allow for even cooking and browning.

10. Bake the chicken for 35 minutes. After 35 minutes, carefully turn each piece of chicken over.

11. Continue baking for another 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit. If you prefer your chicken extra crispy, you can bake it for a few minutes longer, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding can steam the chicken instead of allowing it to crisp up. Use two baking sheets if needed.
• Butter is key: Don’t skimp on the butter! It’s essential for flavor and browning.
• Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone.
• Spice it up: For a little extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Bisquick mixture.
• Rest the chicken: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve Mom Mom’s chicken hot, straight from the oven, for the best flavor and texture. It pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside some steamed green beans or a side of cornbread.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, being careful not to overcook it. Freezing is not recommended, as the coating may become soggy upon thawing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	113.8 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	54 g	48%
Total Fat	6 g	9%
Saturated Fat	2.6 g	13%
Cholesterol	8 mg	2%
Sodium	276.1 mg	11%
Total Carbohydrate	13.2 g	4%
Dietary Fiber	0.7 g	2%
Sugars	2.5 g	N/A
Protein	1.8 g	3%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-free: Substitute the Bisquick with a gluten-free baking mix for a gluten-free version.
• Different cuts of chicken: While this recipe calls for skinless chicken pieces, you can also use bone-in, skin-on chicken. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices in the Bisquick mixture. Try adding dried thyme, rosemary, or oregano for a different flavor profile.
• Lemon pepper: Add a tablespoon of lemon pepper seasoning to the Bisquick mixture for a zesty twist.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can, but they may dry out more easily. Reduce the baking time and monitor closely.

Q: Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
A: You can coat the chicken with the Bisquick mixture up to a few hours in advance and keep it refrigerated until ready to bake.

Q: What if I don’t have Good Seasons Italian dressing mix?
A: While the Good Seasons is key to the distinctive flavor, you can try substituting it with a blend of Italian herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of sugar.

Q: How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the foil?
A: Ensure the foil is well-coated with melted butter. You can also use parchment paper instead of foil.

Q: My chicken is browning too quickly. What should I do?
A: Tent the chicken with foil to prevent further browning while allowing it to cook through.

Final Thoughts

This recipe is more than just a method for cooking chicken; it’s a piece of my family history. It’s a taste of home, a reminder of shared meals and laughter. I hope you’ll try it and share it with your loved ones, creating your own memories around this simple, delicious dish. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the variations to make it your own, and I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below! Pair it with a crisp green salad and a glass of your favorite white wine for a truly memorable meal.