This easy oven-baked chicken breast is juicy and full of flavor! It’s seasoned simply, and baking makes it super tender without any frying fuss.
You can pair it with veggies or a salad, making dinner a breeze. Trust me, I love how quick this recipe is—perfect for busy nights when I’m craving comfort food!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the stars here. If you have chicken thighs, they work well too! They’re a bit juicier and can add more flavor.
Olive Oil: I love olive oil for its rich flavor and health benefits. You can swap it with avocado oil or any other neutral oil if you prefer.
Spices: Garlic powder and paprika deliver great taste. If you want more heat, try cayenne pepper instead. Also, fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can give a nice twist!
Salt and Pepper: Don’t skip on seasoning! Use kosher salt for a more subtle taste or try seasoned salt for a flavor kick.
How Do You Achieve Juicy Chicken Breasts?
To maintain juiciness, start by patting the chicken breasts dry. This helps the oil and spices stick better, leading to great flavor! Make sure not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry. A meat thermometer is your best friend here. Aim for 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken!
- Preheat your oven so the chicken starts cooking right away.
- Let the chicken rest after baking to lock in juices. Just five minutes makes a big difference!
Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or dried oregano/basil)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 18-22 minutes to bake, making a total time of around 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to cook the chicken evenly.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts out of the packaging and pat them dry with paper towels. This removes any excess moisture so the oil and seasonings can stick well!
3. Coat with Olive Oil:
Rub the olive oil all over each chicken breast. This will help the seasonings to adhere and add some delicious flavor!
4. Make the Seasoning Mix:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well with a spoon to get all the spices blended together.
5. Season the Chicken:
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts. Make sure to press lightly so that the seasonings stick well.
6. Arrange in Baking Dish:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer in a baking dish or a rimmed baking sheet. This helps with even cooking.
7. Bake the Chicken:
Put the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This means the chicken is fully cooked!
8. Let It Rest:
Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep the juices locked in, making the chicken more tender and juicy.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious oven-baked chicken breasts hot with your favorite sides like steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your meal!
Bon appétit!
FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can certainly use frozen chicken breasts! However, they need to be completely thawed before baking. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for a quick thaw.
What Can I Use Instead of Olive Oil?
If you’re not a fan of olive oil, you can use avocado oil, canola oil, or melted coconut oil as a substitute. Each will provide a slight variation in flavor, but they’ll all work well in the recipe!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat to enjoy again!
Can I Add Other Seasonings or Ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices, such as rosemary, thyme, or even some chili powder for a bit of heat. You can also add lemon juice for a fresh zing!
