This easy oven-baked chicken breast recipe is a winner! It’s juicy, tender, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for any meal. Plus, it comes together quickly without a lot of fuss.
I love how simple it is to prepare—just season and pop it in the oven! Great for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. If you prefer thighs for their richer flavor, go ahead! They will still cook well, but adjust the baking time as thighs may need a bit longer.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds moisture and helps the seasoning stick. If you’re looking for a different flavor, try avocado oil or melted butter. Both will work beautifully!
Garlic Powder & Paprika: These spices give the chicken great flavor. You can swap garlic powder for minced garlic if you prefer fresh. If you like a little heat, try using smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
Seasoning: Italian seasoning or dried herbs like oregano and basil are versatile. If you lack these, any combination of dried thyme, rosemary, or parsley works well too!
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Breasts Stay Juicy?
Keeping chicken breasts juicy is key! First, make sure to pat them dry—this helps with browning. Using a meat thermometer is super helpful; pull the chicken when it reaches 165°F (75°C). Lastly, let it rest for about 5 minutes after cooking to lock in all those tasty juices.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid drying out.
- Letting the chicken rest is so important—it makes a big difference!
Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or dried oregano/basil)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5-10 minutes of prep time to season the chicken, and then you’ll need about 20-25 minutes for baking. In total, you’re looking at roughly 30-35 minutes—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden color.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the chicken get a nice sear in the oven.
3. Arrange in Baking Dish:
Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish or on a rimmed baking sheet. Make sure there’s a little space between each piece for even cooking.
4. Add Olive Oil:
Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the chicken breasts. This will help the seasoning stick and keep the chicken moist while baking.
5. Mix the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This blend is simple yet flavorful!
6. Season the Chicken:
Sprinkle your seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts. Don’t be shy! Make sure they’re well coated for the best flavor.
7. Bake the Chicken:
Now, pop the baking dish into your preheated oven. Bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. You want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (75°C) for safety.
8. Let it Rest:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps keep the juices locked in, making for a tender bite.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, slice the chicken and serve it with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or fluffy rice. Enjoy your delicious and juicy oven-baked chicken breasts!
FAQ for Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
It’s best to thaw frozen chicken breasts before baking. Thaw them in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method—place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water until thawed. Pat dry before seasoning.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
You can easily reduce the amount of olive oil or use a cooking spray to cut back on fat. Additionally, consider adding lemon juice or fresh herbs for extra flavor without added calories!
What Should I Do if My Chicken Breasts Are Very Thick?
If your chicken breasts are thicker than 1 inch, you may need to adjust the cooking time. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for 165°F (75°C). Alternatively, consider butterflying the chicken to help it cook evenly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the microwave or oven until warmed through, keeping it covered to retain moisture.
