This Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast is a tasty and healthy dish. It’s seasoned simply and cooked to juicy perfection. Just pop it in the oven and let it do its thing!
I love how little work it takes—season, bake, and enjoy! Perfect for busy nights when I just want something good without fussing too much. Grab your favorite sides and dig in! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I always use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean option. For something different, consider using thighs, which are juicier and forgiving if you overcook them a bit.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the seasonings stick. You can swap it for avocado oil or melted butter if you like. Both give great flavor too!
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder is a quick way to add flavor. If you prefer fresh garlic, use two minced cloves instead. Just adjust the amount to taste!
Seasonings: I love the combination of paprika and Italian herbs. Try using your favorite spices or mix in a little lemon zest for a fresh twist!
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Juicy and Well-Cooked?
Cooking chicken breast can be tricky, but keeping it juicy is all about temperature control. Here’s how you get it right:
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This tool helps you check the chicken’s internal temperature. Aim for 165°F (74°C) for safe eating.
- Rest the Chicken: After baking, letting it rest for 5 minutes helps the juices redistribute, resulting in juicier meat.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the time! Ovens vary, so start checking the chicken at 20 minutes.
With these tips, your chicken breasts will turn out perfect every time! Enjoy your meal!
Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or mixed herbs)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to bake in the oven. So, in about 35 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Chicken
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it nice and hot. While it’s warming up, take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them cook better by removing excess moisture.
2. Mix the Seasoning
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, paprika, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This will be your flavorful seasoning mix!
3. Coat the Chicken
Brush both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil. This adds moisture and helps the seasoning stick. Then, sprinkle your seasoning mixture evenly on both sides of the chicken, pressing lightly so it adheres well.
4. Bake the Chicken
Place the coated chicken breasts in a baking dish or on a rimmed baking sheet. Pop them into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked.
5. Rest and Serve
Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the oven. Let them rest for about 5 minutes to help the juices redistribute. After resting, slice the chicken and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if you’d like. Enjoy your tasty and juicy oven-baked chicken breast!
FAQ for Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts for even cooking. If you have frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method: place the sealed chicken in a bowl of cold water for about an hour until thawed.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, you can use avocado oil, vegetable oil, or melted butter. Each will add a different flavor but will still keep your chicken moist.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftover baked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Chicken?
This chicken is versatile! Serve it with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad. It also pairs well with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal!
