What ingredients are used in a low sodium baked chicken recipe?

A typical low sodium baked chicken recipe includes no-salt-added chicken breasts, extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, smoked paprika, dark chili powder, cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, and fresh parsley for garnish. These ingredients offer flavor without added salt, helping to keep sodium levels low while maintaining taste.

Can I cook low sodium baked chicken in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook low sodium baked chicken in an air fryer. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts, so check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat. Adjust time as needed, usually around 15-20 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

How do I know when low sodium baked chicken is fully cooked?

The safest way to know if the chicken is fully cooked is by using a meat thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part. Cooking to this temperature kills harmful bacteria and prevents foodborne illness. Avoid cutting into the chicken too early to retain moisture.

What is the best way to store and reheat leftover low sodium baked chicken?

After cooking, let the chicken cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in the oven or microwave until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Are there healthy sugar substitutes for low sodium baked chicken recipes?

Yes, if your recipe calls for a touch of sweetness, honey or pure maple syrup are natural substitutes for brown sugar. For a sugar-free option, stevia can be used. These alternatives maintain flavor while avoiding added sodium and refined sugars, keeping the dish heart-friendly and suitable for low sodium diets.

Low Sodium Baked Chicken with Crispy Ritz Cracker Crust

Name: low sodium baked chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 2 lbs (about 3-4 breasts) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, no-salt-added or organic preferred; – 1 tablespoon olive oil; – 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; – 1 tablespoon brown sugar (or substitute honey, maple syrup, or stevia); – 1 teaspoon garlic powder; – ½ teaspoon onion powder; – ½ teaspoon dried or fresh thyme; – ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (or sweet/hot Hungarian paprika); – ½ teaspoon chili powder; – ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes; – ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish; – Optional: 1 teaspoon salt-free seasoning; – Optional: ½ teaspoon black pepper

Description

🍗 Enjoy juicy and flavorful low sodium baked chicken with a crispy Ritz cracker crust for a healthy and satisfying dinner.
🌿 This recipe keeps sodium low without sacrificing taste, making it ideal for those watching their salt intake while craving a crispy, tender meal.

Ingredients

– 2 lbs (about 3-4 breasts) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, no-salt-added or organic preferred

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

– 1 tablespoon brown sugar (or substitute honey, maple syrup, or stevia)

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– ½ teaspoon onion powder

– ½ teaspoon dried or fresh thyme

– ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (or sweet/hot Hungarian paprika)

– ½ teaspoon chili powder

– ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes

– ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

– Optional: 1 teaspoon salt-free seasoning

– Optional: ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Preheat your oven: Set to 375°F (190°C) for ideal baking temperature.

Prepare chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry, pound to even thickness (~¾ inch), and coat evenly with olive oil to retain moisture.

Make the marinade: In a small bowl, combine lemon juice, brown sugar (or alternative sweetener), garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper. Add optional salt-free seasoning or black pepper to taste.

Apply marinade: Place chicken breasts in a baking dish or foil-lined sheet pan and spread marinade over both sides for full coverage.

Bake: Cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer registers 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.

Rest the chicken: Remove from oven and tent with foil, letting rest for 5-10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute for moist, tender meat.

Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and accompany with low sodium sides like steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Notes

🌡 Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches the perfect internal temperature without overcooking.
🍋 Press the spice rub firmly onto the chicken for rich, even flavor.
🥗 Pair this chicken with low sodium sides like steamed veggies or fresh salads for a balanced meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Resting Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
Calories: 300 kcal
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 120 mg
Fat: 10 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 8 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 55 g
Cholesterol: 150 mg

Keywords: Low Sodium Baked Chicken, Ritz Cracker Crust, Juicy Baked Chicken, Healthy Dinner